Lake Iseo, compared to its more popular neighbours, Lake Garda and Lake Como, isn’t immediately recognisable. However, this is the fourth largest lake in Italy and for me the very best! The traditional Italian town of Iseo, with its long promenade and winding streets, is situated on the southern shore of the lake. A quintessential Italian town, every Friday a bustling market engulfs the streets (making it impossible to ride your bike!) and the Italian charm radiates.
Nature pervades this part of Italy and it surrounds Iseo. There are wetlands one side, mountains on the other and, of course, the beautiful lake is right on your doorstep. The lake offers so much to the intrepid explorer. The best way to see the lake is by boat and the ferry port in the centre of town makes exploration incredibly easy.
Start your exploration of Lake Iseo with a visit to Monte Isola. Simply translated the name means ‘Mountain Island’ and it is a prominent landmark of the area. It is the largest lake island in Europe and proudly rises from the centre of the lake. Arrive on the island and the island culture immediately sucks you in. There are no vehicles here, bar a necessary one for the doctor, a bus and a few bikes. The freedom to walk around at your own pace is what makes this place so special.
For a walker like myself, the island is a haven of trails. It’s hard to choose where to go – do you head along the route around the island, or upwards to the top of the mountain? Wherever you choose to walk you will be greeted by spectacular views. Catch glimpses of the lake along forest trails and from mountain ridges where you can gaze down onto towns such as Sulzano and Sale Marasino.
After a long walk, the island presents the perfect atmosphere to sit back and relax. Take the opportunity to try the local speciality ‘Pirlo’, a type of Aperol Spritz, or the famous and delicious, local Franciacorta wine.
On your return, the sounds of the waves lapping against the promenade and the chirp of baby ducklings and swans produces a calming effect. As the restaurants and hotels on the shore prepare for the night, the delicious smells of garlic, fresh pasta and freshly caught fish linger in the air. Twinkling lights from the mainland reflect in the shimmering water as the ferry gently returns to Iseo. Watching the sunset from the boat is the perfect end to a fantastic day.