Lake Vico

Lake Vico covers the caldera of a dormant volcano close to Viterbo and is accessible from Rome. A nature reserve guards its northern coast. The slopes of the close-by Cimini Hills, a range of mountains rising to a height of around 1,000 meters, are home to some of Europe's southernmost beech woods. At 510 meters, the lake is one of the highest in Italy.

The woodlands, where some of the trees grow to a height of 40 meters, are listed as a component of the Primeval Forests of Carpathian Beech UNESCO World Heritage List.

Despite being only a little more than an hour from Rome, its beaches and shoreline are tranquil. The lake is well-known for sailing and fishing in addition to swimming in clean, deep waters; motorized boats are not permitted. Along the southern edge of the lake, there are benches, picnic tables, and a few restaurants. On the northern shore, La Bella Venere Hotel is a beach resort with lake views, family-sized rooms, and kid-friendly amenities.

Location: Lazio, Italy