Discovering the Wonderful Lakes of Abruzzo: Treasures Hidden between Nature and History
Abruzzo, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich in natural treasures, preserves a series of enchanting lakes that deserve to be discovered and admired. From alpine lakes to small bodies of water surrounded by lush nature, every corner of this region offers spectacular views. Among these natural jewels, the Pietranzoni Lake, the Sinizzo Lake, the Sirente Lake, the Capodacqua Lake and the Ortucchio Lake stand out, each with its own unique history and charm.
Laghetto Pietranzoni: An oasis of Serenity
The Pietranzoni Lake, rather famous and photographed because, if framed from the right perspective, it is possible to see the Great Horn that is reflected in its waters. If you then reach this place in the period of the thaw, then with the flowering of the crocuses it will taste even more magical. Reachable by going up from Fonte Cerreto or Santo Stefano di Sessanio it will be necessary to park in front of the bar that is closed (the opening varies depending on the amount of snow). We then continue on foot towards the Piana di Campo Imperatore.
At Laghetto Pietranzoni, a small body of water surrounded by dense beech and fir forests, you can admire the flowering of crocuses or false saffron. Be careful because the crocus is poisonous! The quiet and relaxing atmosphere makes the lake the ideal place for a rejuvenating walk or a family picnic. This is an easy excursion, even for families with children.
If you still have energy you can go up to Campo Imperatore to admire the spectacular walls of snow that are created during the cleaning of the road after the long winter.
2. Lake Sinizzo: Reflections of Beauty
Lake Sinizzo is a small and suggestive lake, located just outside the town of the town of San Demetrio ne'Vestini, near the city of L'Aquila.
Surrounded by green hills and centuries-old woods, its calm and transparent waters reflect the sky and surrounding mountains, performing a breathtaking spectacle.
It is considered as the 'beach of the Aquilans'. Ideal for spending a day in full contact with nature, immersing yourself in its bathing waters and camping with your own tent since it is equipped for the bivouac and its many wooden tables allow you to stop for a picnic.
It is a place loved by nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts, who can spot numerous species of migratory birds here but also a frequent destination for holidaymakers and tourists on weekends thanks to the pleasant environment surrounded by grassy banks, woods and willows.
The lake, of karst origin and circular shape, with a diameter of about 120 m and a maximum depth of 10 m, fed by two sources of drinking water (one of these gives its name to the lake), has suffered the effects of the ruinous earthquake of 2009 reporting damage to the banks with the formation of conspicuous cracks to the point to be feared for its disappearance, then returned thanks to successfully completed reconsolidation works.
There is also a wooden jetty and a walkway that goes for about ten meters inside the lake and is ideal for docking small boats and for diving, as reported in the title, “where the water is bluer. Actually the color is a deep emerald green, but at some times of the year it is more tending to blue. And if you come in winter, the landscape is completely white. Around the lake there are areas of fields and woods. They are perfect for a walk or for a ride on mountain bikes. Moving inland, and going up in the direction of Prata d'Ansidonia, you can find dirt paths where the most daring will have fun with Down Hill-style descents.
3. Lake Sirente: A Mountain Paradise originated from a meteorite impact
Among the mountains that are located in the Ovindoli area, a very renowned ski resort for lovers of winter sports in the surrounding regions, a small lake has been discovered that apparently looks just like an anonymous seasonal lake.
But following a study conducted by some experts from the International Research School of Planetary Science in Pescara, it emerged that the small crater of Sirente, also called Lake Secinaro from the village that is a few kilometers away, is actually fundamental and hides an important history.
The study conducted in particular by Jens Ormo, Angelo Pio Rossi and Goro Kamatsu made it possible to evaluate not only the formation of Lake Secinaro or Sirente Crater but also to date its appearance. Because the Sirente Crater is the result of a meteorite that in the fourth century after Christ entered the Earth's atmosphere like a bolide and crashed right into the plain on the slopes of the Sirente group. The lake is located within an easily accessible area although not being publicized it is often more of a chance encounter with the mysteries of the cosmos than the attraction of organized travel.
Even from above, what immediately strikes is the almost perfectly round shape of the lake and the presence of other small depressions in the ground surrounding the lake. Researchers have so far cataloged 17 smaller craters that are for the most part perfectly visible even when walking to get closer to the lake. A lake that betrays its origin with a shore formed by a slight hill, a sign of the impact of the meteorite with the ground that has been moved with a movement similar to what for example occurs if you throw a stone on the sand. The Sirente Crater was registered as the first and currently only meteoric crater in Italy.
Nestled between the Sirente Mountains and the Simbruini Mountains, Lake Sirente is in fact an oasis of tranquility and wild beauty. Its remote location and intact atmosphere make it a perfect place for lovers of hiking and trekking, who can get lost here among scenic trails and pristine landscapes. During the winter, the frozen lake also offers the opportunity for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.
4. Lake Cape of Water: Mirror of Water between Legend and Nature
In the Tirino Valley, between the municipalities of Caporciano and Capestrano, there is the suggestive Lake Capodacqua. According to legend, its waters are fed by freshwater springs that flow from the subsoil, giving it a unique purity and transparency. Surrounded by lush vegetation and ancient medieval villages, the lake is a place of rare beauty.
In reality, the waters of the water sources of Capo d'Acqua are invaded in an artificial basin connected to an irrigation system that powers a hydroelectric power plant. This invasion forms a fascinating high-altitude lake, the lake of Capo d'Acqua, defined in the international tourist panorama, the small Atlantis of Abruzzo.
In the land submerged today by the waters of the lake, there was in ancient times a mill that belonged to the Verlengia family of Capestrano, and a color factory built near the source of Capo d'Acqua. The color factory is still visible on the surface, while the mill of about 400 square meters, in a good state of preservation, is completely immersed in the crystal clear water of the lake and is characterized by ancient traditional masonry construction techniques. Well visible are the remains of two wall arches and the wooden platforms of doors and windows. On the side there is another smaller mill, probably an extension of the other. Intact is the pavement of the ancient paths that was once crossed by the peasants with their load of wheat.
A submerged, fascinating and mysterious place, characterized by the low temperature of the waters that, remaining constant around ten degrees all year round, prevents the proliferation of algae and lake plants and guarantees excellent visibility.
All these characteristics make Lake Capo d'Acqua a call of interest for diving enthusiasts from all over the world, a unique scenery wrapped in the wonderful setting of the Gran Sasso National Park. The environmental protection provided by the Park prohibits snorkeling and bathing activities, the only activity allowed is the underwater one that guarantees a lower impact on the tranquility of the avian fauna that winters in the lake during migrations.
There are numerous publications and dedicated articles such as: Reflections from the Past by David Salvatori, SportDiver which lists it among the 50 best dive sites in the world, ScubaDiving which includes it in the first 25 or La Repubblica which cites it among the ten pearls of the bottom of Italy.
From July 2022 the Calipso company allows everyone to observe the submerged beauties of the lake with zero-impact boats equipped with a cabin that allows you to view the bottom of the lake under the surface of the water. The cabins under the hull are glass domes that allow you to see at a distance of 5-6 meters, thanks to the effect of the water that acts as a magnifying glass.
5. Ortucchio Pond: Refuge of Peace and Silence
In the Peligna Valley, at the foot of Monte Salviano, there is the suggestive Laghetto di Ortucchio, an oasis of peace and tranquility surrounded by the greenery of the Abruzzo countryside.
Its construction dates back to the 1930s, and has since become an oasis of tranquility and a popular destination for nature lovers. The lake is fed by the Imele River, creating an ideal environment for the local fauna.
Lake Ortucchio offers numerous opportunities for recreational and leisure activities. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy moments of tranquility along its shores, trying to catch the varieties of fish present in the waters of the lake. Families can take advantage of picnic areas and equipped parks to spend a day outdoors, while water sports enthusiasts can go canoeing or pedal boats.
Its crystal clear waters and breathtaking views make it a place loved by fishermen and birdwatchers, who can spot numerous species of migratory birds here.
The surroundings of Lake Ortucchio are crossed by nature trails that allow hikers to explore the surrounding flora and fauna. Nature lovers will be able to come across a variety of bird species and admire the richness of the vegetation that characterizes this area. The surrounding hills offer spectacular views, making walks around the lake an unforgettable experience.
Lake Ortucchio can be visited throughout the year. It offers different atmospheres depending on the seasons. Spring and summer, with longer days and mild temperatures, are ideal for those who wish to fully enjoy outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Autumn, with its warm colors, creates a romantic atmosphere, while winter, although quieter, gives the lake a special charm, especially on days with the possible presence of snow.
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