Everyone has heard of Lakes Garda, Como and Maggiore but we think Lake Caldonazza is worthy of much more publicity than it currently receives. The great news is that its off the main tourist trail and offers idyllic Italian picture postcard scenes year round.
The beautiful lakeside villages such as Caldonazzo, Calceranica al Lago, San Cristoforo, Ischia or Santa Caterina host mainly Italian holidaymakers (its one of their biggest secrets). Its for this reason that prices have remained moderate by Italian standards. The Dutch appear to make up the remainder of the tourist numbers.
The lake is home to a large variety of wildlife and fish species, including trout, perch and tench, making it very popular with fishermen. It is also possible to spot various species of birds of prey, especially in the afternoon hours.
There are also a number of camping areas around Lake Caldonazzo with families generally preferring to locate on the lake's southern section. Bathing is possible from June to September, when the lake waters are between a pleasant 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.
Its also great for hikers. A trip to the Rifugio Casarota – a refuge
run by the Alpine Club and situated at an altitude of 1,572 metres.The route winds its way past the small church in Campregheri, then up a narrow country road and through a forest. In summer, temperatures can climb quite high but refreshments are available at the Al Bosco guesthouse. The climb to the refuge is steep and takes up to three hours but the trek is well worthwhile, not least just to sample the cooking talents of hut-keeper Goretta Zambon.
The panoramic view of the Valsugana valley with its lush green forests are fabulous, Lake Caldonazzo can also be seen glimmering in the distance.
Ask one of our ABTOI members for more information www.loveitaly.co.uk
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