The natural lake of Iseo, falling in love with itself at first sight

This delightful place attracts tourists from all over the world, as well as talented people who are looking for inspiration. Surrounded by olive trees, the near-water lake of Iseo (Italy) is compared with a precious stone, and the setting is served by enchanting mountains and picturesque hills.

In the XVIII century, the English traveler M. U. Montague, who visited many exotic places, wrote that she discovered the most romantic corner she had ever met.

Natural masterpiece

Lake Iseo (Lago d'Iseo), located in the north of Italy, admires its beauty of everyone who comes to enjoy an indescribable natural masterpiece. The picturesque pond, which gave the name to the city on the southern shore, differs from all others in that its low water temperature remains even in hot summer. And the unique phenomenon "feeding" due to cold sources under the ground is explained.

This is the smallest of the so-called great lakes of Lombardy and not very popular, but all who once visited a cozy place, rush to repeat the fascinating journey. And even ice water does not become an obstacle for tourists coming to rest in the bosom of nature and explore underwater depths.

The small lake of Iseo is surrounded on all sides by picturesque villages, which are famous for their elegant architectural buildings. Locals fish, make natural olive oil of excellent quality and a wonderful wine, and no tourist leaves without purchases.

Lake Iseo: attractions

The long and narrow lake is known for its inhabited island, which is recognized as the highest in Europe: Monte Isola is located at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level. It is home to approximately 1,800 people engaged in networking and exporting their products. At first the inhabitants wove willow branches, and later began to use threads made of silk.

Thanks to a good transport connection, the islanders work in other cities without changing their residence.

If you swim on a boat to Monte Isola, bathing in the green, it seems that the mountain-island grows suddenly and is advancing its power directly to the tourists. There is practically no transport, and bicycles are available for guests.

The western part of the natural lake is very picturesque - it is a gentle slope with olive trees and wonderful gardens. And in the east of the natural sights from the steep banks take off the Italian hang gliders.

Church on the mountain

The outstanding place is a small church located on the highest point of the island. From the top of the mountain opens a truly magical view of Lake Iseo (Italy), however, it's not so easy to get to the temple where the wooden figure of the Madonna is located, and the walking route takes more than an hour.

The sanctuary, which symbolized the transition to a new faith and the rejection of pagan superstitions, was for a long time in ruined condition, and only at the end of the 16th century began its restoration. A new church was erected, a beautiful vault instead of a regular roof, wrought-iron gates were built and new chapels were built, and later a bell tower appeared. In a working church, you can pray and repent.

After overcoming all obstacles, tourists are rewarded with a wonderful landscape, from which breathtaking. It seems that the island and Lake Iseo, which grows directly from the water, are protected from all miseries by the miraculous power of the Mother of God.

Two satellite islands

Nearby are two small islands - Sao Paolo and Loreto, which are privately owned and deserve to be told about them in more detail.

The private island of Isola di Loreto changed its owners until in the XX century it was bought by Captain V. Richieri, who built a neo-Gothic castle on the lake and created a green park of coniferous trees. The unique beauty of the mysterious structure is perfectly complemented by the rocky shores of Iseo. Unfortunately, you will not be able to get to the island, but tourists swim with pleasure on the excursion boat around fabulously beautiful places.

The small San Paolo is famous for being the base for military courts in the Middle Ages, and after it was handed over to the monks, a church was built on the island. Later, they arranged a colony for dangerous criminals. Now, thanks to the new owners, a beautiful cottage has appeared on Isola di San Paolo.

Installation, which has become a cultural event

More recently, the lake Iseo, formed by the ancient glacier, became known all over the world. The bridge that appeared here is a pontoon pavement about three kilometers long. From June 18 to July 3, 2016 it was possible to walk along the water, along pedestrian paths consisting of polyethylene cubes. This is the only floating bridge in the world recognized as a real work of art.

The installation of plastic cubes, packed in orange fabric, changing color from lighting and weather, attracted a huge number of guests. Floating piers were completely free of charge for tourists who came to Lake Iseo (Italy). The 35-centimeter bridge, connecting the islands of Sao Paulo and Monte Isola, was named the loudest cultural event of the month in the world.

The American artist who created the project spent more than 15 million euros, and the authorities in the region earned three times more.

For life and rest

Lake Iseo, which Georges Sand called "a wonderful place to live", is ideal for a relaxing holiday. Corner with a soothing atmosphere, falling in love with itself at first sight, will give unforgettable moments and leave indelible impressions from contact with the virgin nature.