Hidden gem among the Lazio hills, the Lake Martignano it represents a small natural paradise for those who want a break from the frenzy of everyday life. Just twenty kilometers north of Rome, the body of water is located within the regional natural park of the Bracciano – Martignano lake complex, a reserve protected since 1999 which manages to amaze and enchant due to its beauty and tranquility.
Once you reach the area, what appears to visitors is a small pool of blue water, surrounded by green hills and lush nature. The lake, with a surface area of 2,440 square km and located 305 meters above sea level, is fed by the waters that flow inside the caldera of volcanic origin, for an environment with crystal clear and deep waters, which reach up to 60 meters .
A journey into protected nature
Until a few years ago, it was possible to drive your car to a car park located at the top of the hill overlooking the lake, but recently the Park Authority has introduced a ZTL (limited traffic zone) to protect the delicate ecosystem from tourist pressure, especially during summer weekends. Today access is regulated and visitors are required to park their cars in a designated area downstream, from where shuttles depart that lead up to the hill above the lake, a necessary measure that guarantees both better conservation of the environment that a more relaxed and natural experience for tourists, away from chaotic traffic.
The shuttle travels about a kilometer of uphill dirt road, until it reaches a panoramic point that offers a double view of incomparable charm: on one side Lake Martignano, on the other the nearby Lake Bracciano. From here the journey continues on foot along a gravel path, downhill, which winds through the vegetation and leads directly to the shores of the lake. The route is quiet, surrounded by greenery, and allows you to fully enjoy the peace that reigns in this place.
The beach and activities on the lake
Once you reach the lake, you find yourself in front of a beach of fine, dark sand, typical of volcanic areas, surrounded by a large tree-lined meadow. Martignano offers various options for enjoying the day: free beaches for those who simply want to lie down on a towel and relax, or an establishment equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas at affordable prices, decidedly lower than those of seaside seaside resorts.
The waters of the lake are clean and suitable for swimming, perfect for a refreshing swim, but for those who prefer more dynamic activities there is no shortage of opportunities: it is possible to rent pedal boats, canoes and sailing boats with which to explore every corner of the body of water and enjoy the silence interrupted only by the light rustling of the waves. A pedalo ride allows you to admire the nature surrounding the lake up close, with shades of green that are reflected in the blue waters and give the landscape an extraordinary charm.
What is most striking about Lake Martignano, in addition to the obvious natural beauty, is the tranquility that can be felt there. Far from the urban chaos and crowded beaches of the coast, Martignano guarantees a perfect space to regenerate, where time seems to pass more slowly. The presence of the“Il Castoro” farmhouse, located on the opposite shore of the lake, it adds a touch of rurality to the landscape: those who wish can approach by pedal boat or canoe to admire the structures surrounded by greenery up close.
The days spent in Martignano pass between relaxing on the beach, long walks along the paths that wind through the surrounding hills and moments of contemplation of the clear waters, which reflect the blue sky and the clouds that are reflected in it.
How to get there and where to park
The route to reach Martignano requires some attention: starting from Rome, take the Cassia SS2 (bis) and follow the signs for Cesano, then take a series of local roads that cross a rural landscape. The last stretch leads directly to the car park located in (Via delle Pantane?), where the exchange area is located to take the shuttle to the lake. The shuttle service, available from 08:00 to 20:00 (in spring and summer), costs 2 euros per person for a return trip, with free access for children up to five years old. The car park, however, has a maximum capacity of 500 vehicles and has different costs: for a whole day you pay 5 euros, while the reduced rate of 3 euros applies to those arriving in the afternoon or to residents.
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