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Lake  Idro​

Latest page update: 3 April 2025
By: Dion Protani
​Situated in the Province of Brescia, Lake Idro covers an area of 11 square kilometres. The lake is 122 metres deep at its deepest point and stands at an elevation of 368 metres above sea level.

​Nearby places of interest include Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Brescia, Bergamo and Salò, while the recommended accommodation for Lake Idro is the B&B Re' Perone in Anfo.

What People Ask About Lake Idro

Is Lake Idro worth visiting?
Absolutely. Lake Idro offers a tranquil and scenic environment, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
What activities can I do at Lake Idro?
Lake Idro offers various outdoor activities such as hiking in the surrounding hills, sailing on the lake, and exploring the nearby Alto Garda Bresciano Park. The town's mild climate also makes it ideal for cycling and leisurely walks.
How do I get to Lake Idro?
Lake Idro is accessible by car via the A4 motorway, exiting at Brescia Est and following signs to Salò and then Lake Idro. Public buses connect the town with nearby cities, and ferry services operate on the lake, providing scenic access from other lakeside towns.
Are there any historical sites near Lake Idro?
Yes, the Rocca d'Anfo is a notable historical site near Lake Idro. This fortress offers guided tours and provides insight into the region's history.
What is the best time to visit Lake Idro?
The best time to visit Lake Idro is during the spring and early summer months, from May to June, or in early autumn, from September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the area is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Related links
Lake Idro Overview
Lake Idro is a picturesque glacial lake located in the Lombardy region, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, near the town of Idro. Set at an elevation of 368 metres, the lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by steep mountains and lush forests. Lake Idro offers a tranquil and scenic environment, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Visitors to Lake Idro can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for water sports, while the surrounding area provides numerous hiking and cycling trails, offering spectacular views of the lake and the nearby peaks. The region is also popular for birdwatching and nature photography, with a rich variety of wildlife inhabiting the area. In the winter months, the nearby mountains offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, making Lake Idro a year-round destination for outdoor activities.
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The nearby town of Idro provides services such as restaurants, accommodation, and shops, making it a convenient base for exploring the lake and the surrounding area. Lake Idro is also close to other attractions in Lombardy, including the larger Lake Garda and the natural beauty of the Adamello Brenta Natural Park. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the lake with exploring the cultural and natural landmarks of the region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Lakeside Villages: The shores of Lake Idro are dotted with small villages such as Anfo, Crone, and Vesta, each offering a peaceful setting with mountain views and lakeside promenades. These settlements retain a local character, with traditional houses, quiet beaches, and family-run trattorias. The compact size of the lake makes it easy to explore multiple villages in a day.
  • Beaches and Swimming Areas: The lake has several natural beaches with pebbled shores and clean, clear water suitable for swimming from spring through early autumn. Popular spots include the beaches near Ponte Caffaro and the southern shore near Anfo, where the shallow waters are ideal for families and water sports.
  • Forte di Anfo: Overlooking the western shore, this historic fortress was originally built during the Venetian Republic and expanded under Napoleon and the Austrians. Guided tours take visitors through tunnels, barracks, and gun emplacements. The elevated position offers sweeping views over the lake and surrounding peaks.
  • Outdoor Activities and Water Sports: Lake Idro is well-suited to sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, thanks to its consistent breezes and relatively quiet waters. Surrounding trails also provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding, particularly in the hills above Capovalle and the Valle Sabbia.
  • Day Trip to Bagolino: A short drive from the lake, Bagolino is a historic mountain village known for its steep alleys, alpine traditions, and the production of Bagòss cheese. Its medieval centre and picturesque location make it a worthwhile excursion for visitors seeking a cultural and culinary experience inland from the lake.
Lago d'Idro
Province: Brescia

Region: Lombardy

Surface area: 11 km²

Maximum depth: 122 metres

Surface elevation: 368 metres

Lakeside towns: Anfo, Ponte Caffaro

Close by: ​Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Brescia, Bergamo, Salò

Fly to: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​Milan Bergamo Airport (99 km), Verona (98 km)

Train stations: ​​​​​​​​​​​​Brescia (50 km), Desenzano del Garda (50 km)

Recommended accommodation: B&B Re' Perone (Anfo)
​

Lake  Idro​​  Gallery

Anfo

Picture
Anfo, Lake Idro, Lombardy

Ponte  Caffaro

Picture
Ponte Caffaro, Lake Idro, Lombardy
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