Top 20 Lakes around Lucca
Best lakes around Lucca offer diverse natural experiences, ranging from significant ecological sanctuaries to glacial lakes in mountainous terrain. The region, encompassing the province of Lucca and nearby accessible areas, features wetlands, artificial basins, and high-altitude lakes. These bodies of water are often surrounded by protected natural environments, providing habitats for various wildlife. Visitors can explore areas with historical significance, unique flora, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Lucca
- The most popular lakes is Lake Gramolazzo, a lake that is artificial and exploited for the creation of electricity. Its banks are equipped with playgrounds for children and large beach sections for swimming.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Vagli, a lake and the largest hydroelectric basin in Tuscany. Visitors can see the 92-meter high dam and, when the lake is emptied, the submerged village of Fabbriche di Careggine.
- Visitors also love Lake Massaciuccoli, a coastal lake and part of a natural park and LIPU oasis. This area is known for its numerous bird species and offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
- Lucca is known for artificial lakes, natural wetlands, and high-altitude glacial lakes. These offer a variety of landscapes and activities, from birdwatching to hiking and swimming.
- The lakes around Lucca are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 80 upvotes and over 20 photos shared across 29 highlights.
Last updated: June 3, 2026
LIPU Massaciuccoli Oasis
Highlight • Natural Monument
A pleasant and suggestive walk that plunges into a unique environment where it is possible to observe the typical flora of the marshes and hygrophilous woods, insects, fish and other aquatic organisms and of course, with a little attention, the various species of birds that populate this environment, an important resting, wintering and breeding area.
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Lake Gramolazzo
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Vagli
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Gherardesca
Highlight • Lake
At the foot of Monte Pisano, one of the most important wetlands in Tuscany, about 30 hectares have become a special protection area for the protection of water birds.
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Lake Massaciuccoli
Highlight • Structure
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Isola Santa Village
Highlight • Settlement
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Lake Vagli and Morandi Bridge
Highlight • Lake
Last day of vacation in Green Tuscany. Temperatures rise above 40°C.
In search of cooling, which we find on the banks of the Lago di Vagli reservoir.
We are triggered by the sunken village, Fabbriche di Careggine, which was evacuated in 1947 to create a reservoir for the public interest. This village had a beautiful Romanesque church from the 13th century, a few houses and a cemetery. Every now and then the church tower of the village appears above the water. In a haze of mystery and the mirage above the water surface, we hope to catch a glimpse of the spire.
The ghost village only reveals its hidden secrets every 25 years. The last time the reservoir was drained for maintenance work was in 1996 and was allowed to receive millions of visitors. Due to corona, the draining has been postponed. Now we are looking forward to a new period when the lake will be drained once again. Ruins will then reveal their secrets again... will the church tower of San Teodoro still be intact? It is also said that the spirits of the deceased residents then return and haunt the village, a real ghost town...
'More' is all we need for that...
Ponte Morandi and Ponte dei Fanti di Marina let us enjoy beautiful views over the idyllic lake, the picturesque village of Vagli Sotto with the beautiful green mountain landscape in the background.
We walk past the statues of Parco dell'Onore e del Disonore in an exemplary manner. Here 'Honour and Dishonour' stare out over the surface of the water. The statues of Trump and Putin are only worth a two-second glance. We complete our discovery adventurously along the shady banks of Vagli Sotto. With a delicious lunch behind us, we finally leave...
The heat is getting too much for us, returning to our B&B seems like a good idea...
Read more experiences? Click through to komoot.com/nl-nl/collection/2195535/-visit-italy-2023-regio-massa-carrara-lucca
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Lake and Dam of Vicaglia
Highlight • Lake
It can be easily reached by car or by bike starting either from the Piazza al Serchio station (about 13 km, passing through Sillano), and from San Romano in Garfagnana (about 17 km, passing through Corfino and the Orecchiella Park). Those arriving by train to Piazza al Serchio can use a bus that in half an hour, passing through Sillano, takes them to Villa Soraggio; from here to the lake there is just a little more than a kilometer to walk.
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Lake Pontecosi
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Vagli
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
a natural reserve and oasis on the lake part of the Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Natural Park, good known for paddle sports and wildlife observation, including herons and flamingos. The area is accessible via several trails, including the "Casa Rossa - Riserva del Chiarone" route which is suitable for walking, running, and cycling. Ideal place to rest and walk out on the boardwalks to various hides to watch for the birds
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These reservoirs, created to extract hydroelectric energy, have their own charm, even as industrial architecture. This lake conceals the old town beneath its waters. Attractions such as the suspension bridge and zip line, as well as a family pool, have been built around it. During bike rides, I find refreshments here, taking advantage of the opportunity to take a break.
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The place is cool and quiet during the week. Canoe rentals are available for lake excursions.
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What a beautiful place. We only found one spot where you can pass through, but for bird protection reasons, you shouldn't walk along the embankment. You walk a lot around the lake on the shady paths. Unfortunately, you can't see anything from there because of the tall bushes. It's absolutely peaceful here. There's a little house with a lovely view of the lake.
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beautiful location. accessible by both paths and normal road. always open and free. Perfect for birdwatching
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It's really beautiful there.
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Lago di Vagli (Vagli Sotto) - That's all it needs to be / Day 13 Last day of vacation in Green Tuscany. Temperatures rise above 40°C. In search of cooling, which we find on the banks of the Lago di Vagli reservoir. We are triggered by the sunken village, Fabbriche di Careggine, which was evacuated in 1947 to create a reservoir for the public interest. This village had a beautiful Romanesque church from the 13th century, a few houses and a cemetery. Every now and then the church tower of the village appears above the water. In a haze of mystery and the mirage above the water surface, we hope to catch a glimpse of the spire. The ghost village only reveals its hidden secrets every 25 years. The last time the reservoir was drained for maintenance work was in 1996 and was allowed to receive millions of visitors. Due to corona, the draining has been postponed. Now we are looking forward to a new period when the lake will be drained once again. Ruins will then reveal their secrets again... will the church tower of San Teodoro still be intact? It is also said that the spirits of the deceased residents then return and haunt the village, a real ghost town... 'More' is all we need for that... Ponte Morandi and Ponte dei Fanti di Marina let us enjoy beautiful views over the idyllic lake, the picturesque village of Vagli Sotto with the beautiful green mountain landscape in the background. We walk past the statues of Parco dell'Onore e del Disonore in an exemplary manner. Here 'Honour and Dishonour' stare out over the surface of the water. The statues of Trump and Putin are only worth a two-second glance. We complete our discovery adventurously along the shady banks of Vagli Sotto. With a delicious lunch behind us, we finally leave... The heat is getting too much for us, returning to our B&B seems like a good idea... Read more experiences? Click through to https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/collection/2195535/-visit-italy-2023-regio-massa-carrara-lucca
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes are best for birdwatching and wildlife observation near Lucca?
For exceptional birdwatching, visit Lago di Massaciuccoli, a significant ecological sanctuary and wild bird sanctuary (Oasi LIPU). It features observation blinds and boardwalks. Another excellent spot is Lago di Sibolla, considered one of Tuscany's most important marshy biotopes, home to a beautiful heronry and a crucial stop for migratory birds. You can find more information about Lago di Sibolla at visittuscany.com.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Lucca with facilities for children?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lake Gramolazzo is particularly family-friendly, offering playgrounds for children and large beach sections for swimming. Lake Massaciuccoli also offers family-friendly trails and activities within its natural park.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Lucca?
The lakes provide a great base for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy walks and hikes, such as the 'Lake Vagli - Ring tour' or the 'Lake Gherardesca — Ring tour'. For more challenging adventures, there are mountain hikes like the 'Rifugio Rossi alla Pania loop' or various MTB trails, including the 'Pista ciclabile sul Fiume Serchio a Lucca'. Explore more options on the easy hikes around Lucca guide, mountain hikes around Lucca guide, or MTB trails around Lucca guide.
Are there any lakes with historical significance or unique cultural aspects?
Absolutely. Lake Vagli is famous for its submerged village, Fabbriche di Careggine, which reappears when the lake is emptied for maintenance. The lake also features a 92-meter high dam. Near Lago di Massaciuccoli, you can find the Roman Villa of Massaciuccoli, dating back to the 1st century AD, and it's also where composer Giacomo Puccini lived and found inspiration. The charming Isola Santa Village, overlooking an artificial lake, is a picturesque medieval village with a unique history.
When is the best time to visit the lakes near Lucca for nature viewing?
For an explosion of life and nesting birds, the best times to visit Lago di Massaciuccoli are April to June. For observing migratory birds, September and October are ideal. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the natural beauty of the region's lakes.
Can I find high-altitude or mountain lakes near Lucca?
Yes, Lago Nero (Black Lake) is a notable example of a glacial lake, situated at an elevation of 1,730 meters (5,674 feet) in the Pistoia Mountains. It's known for its pristine natural environment, surrounded by dense forests and alpine meadows, offering picturesque high-altitude scenery for hikers.
Which lakes offer opportunities for swimming?
Lake Gramolazzo is a popular choice for swimming, featuring large beach sections along its banks. It's an artificial lake located in the Apuan Alps park.
Are there protected natural areas around the lakes near Lucca?
Yes, the region boasts several protected areas. Lago di Massaciuccoli is part of the Migliarino, San Rossore, Massaciuccoli natural park and a LIPU oasis. Lago di Sibolla is a significant natural wetland and marshy biotope. Additionally, near Lago Nero, you'll find the Oasi Naturale Orientata di Campolino, a reserve for rare indigenous tree populations.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Lucca?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural experiences, from the peaceful escape and rich biodiversity of wetlands like Massaciuccoli to the stunning high-altitude scenery of glacial lakes like Lago Nero. The blend of natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor activities, and unique historical sites like the submerged village at Lake Vagli makes the region's lakes a cherished destination.
Are there dog-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, Lake Gramolazzo is considered dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors who want to bring their canine companions along to enjoy the outdoors.
Can I find easy walking routes suitable for beginners near the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes. The Lago di Massaciuccoli area features wooden boardwalks perfect for gentle strolls and wildlife viewing. You can also find easy ring tours like the 'Lake Vagli - Ring tour' and the 'Lake Gherardesca — Ring tour' which are suitable for beginners. More easy hikes are available on the easy hikes around Lucca guide.
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