Things to do at Lake Bolsena, the complete guide

Lake Bolsena has the problem that comes with being beautiful: in summer it draws crowds, and anyone who doesn’t really know it risks seeing nothing but the queue for parking and the line at the kiosk.

Those who know it well know that you only need to move a short distance to find something completely different.

The lake, a few useful numbers

Lake Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Europe. A 120 km shoreline, two islands, Bisentina and Martana, and water that stays clean thanks to the volcanic origin of the basin. It’s safe for swimming, genuinely so, which isn’t something you can take for granted on a lake this size in central Italy.

The towns on the lake

Bolsena is the most populated town on the eastern shore. The medieval Orsini castle overlooks the waterfront and is worth visiting for the view alone. The historic centre is compact, an hour is enough to see it, but the alleyways deserve more than a quick walk-through.

Capodimonte is smaller and quieter. The headland it sits on is one of the lake’s most photographed viewpoints. In summer the waterfront comes alive, but stays on a human scale.

Marta and Gradoli, on the western shore, are less visited and more authentic. If you’re after the lake without the tourists, that’s the direction to look.

What to eat

Lake fish takes centre stage in the local cuisine. Coregone, delicate and nearly boneless, is the most prized. Eel is more rustic and more divisive. Sbroscia is the traditional fish soup: brothy, flavourful, the kind of dish you won’t find outside this area.

There’s also sea fish and meat on offer, so the choice around Lake Bolsena can satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Best time to go

June and September are the best months. The water is warm, the light is beautiful, and the crowds are manageable.

July and August bring heat and heavier crowds: not impossible, but choose your timing and the lesser-known beaches carefully.

Outside the summer season the lake takes on a different mood, quieter, better suited to walking, taking photos, or simply taking your time.

How to get to Lake Bolsena

Staying at AuraVista in Montefiascone, the lake is 15 minutes by car. The location is ideal for anyone who wants the lake within easy reach without staying right on it, with all the benefits of an authentic historic town centre waiting in the evening.