To escape the hot summer of Rome we often head up SS2 Cassia to Lake Bracciano. Driving to the lake you head northwest of Rome, leaving behind the noisy traffic, graffiti, and the crowds. As you head out on the Cassia (or take the train), you’re heading into the country. When you turn off SP493 and head for the lake, it’s a breath-taking transformation. One minute you’re looking at wheat fields and electrical towers… and then you turn the corner on a curvy road and below you is the entire lake … and what a view! Here’s that view.
And here’s a video showing one of our many trips out to Lake Bracciano on our motorino
The nature and landscaping is beautiful and the area has its share of archaeological treasures. There are three towns built on the lake’s shores: Bracciano, Trevignano Romano and Anguillara Sabazia. Lake Bracciano is now one of the primary sources of drinking water for the city of Rome. In the 1600′s the Acquedotto Paulo was built to take water from here to the Vatican.
The city of Bracciano sits on the northwest corner of the lake and has been inhabited since Etruscan times. The first thing you will see as you approach the city, by rail, car, or boat is the magnificent Castle. It’s considered one of the most important castles in Italy. Building on the castle started in 1470 and was completed in 1485. The King of France once visited the castle, yet in recent times it’s most famous for visits by John Kennedy and Tina Turner. And of course, this is the castle that Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes were married at in November 2006.
There are many other important sites in Bracciano and the surrounding towns including baroque churches, agricultural settlements, ancient spas and Roman Villas, hot springs, the necropolis of Sabatia, the church of Santa Maria Assunta, Palazzo Baronale, convent of S. Stefano, archaeological sites, ruins, fountains, the Historical Italian Air Force Museum, Botanical gardens, and numerous restaurants around the lake. For more info, go to Lake Bracciano.
All along the lakefront there are "beaches" with chairs and umbrellas for rent. You also can see the small pedal boats and wind surfing boards available.
Parking is available but get there early. This is a one-way street near one of the beaches. On the right side of this picture is the beach… and on the left are many restaurants and cafes!
Here’s the view from the street parking. As you can see, you will be VERY close to your parked car!
There are many "native" guests also. Here a swan convinces some locals to "donate" some of their pana.
You can also play volleyball and water tennis with nets set up by the communities. Here, a group of Italian teenagers play an intense game. Note the friend cruising in the water just behind them!
At the lake you can also enjoy these activities!
Lake Bracciano is very easy to get to by car. Just head up SS2 – the Via Cassia – and follow the signs! It’s about a 25-30 minute ride from downtown Rome, depending on where you’re starting and time of day (due to traffic).
In the picture above, you can see the red square that marks where the Via Cassia (SS2) crosses the GRA – the Ring Road that surrounds Rome. Lake Bracciano is northwest of this marker.
You will have to turn off on SS2 at the intersection above – Bear to the left onto SP493, following the signs to Bracciano.
You can also ride the train to Bracciano from multiple stations in Rome. The train station is in the center of town, a little bit of a hike to the beach – but quite close to the castle – See the map above.
However you go, Lake Bracciano is a often welcome relief from the sweltering Rome heat. We go often and enjoy our “getaway,” and you will too! Have fun!
Food is a HUGE priority in Italy. When in Rome, eat as the Romans do! Discover the hidden gourmet joys of eating and drinking in Rome just like the locals. Above is a collection of books, guides, and videos on food in Italy. Click on any to get more information! For USA guests, see more for more travel items for your upcoming European trip at our Travel Store, or look in amazon.com. Non-USA Guests can search for books or travel items at amazon.co.uk
Food is a HUGE priority in Italy. When in Rome, eat as the Romans do! Discover the hidden gourmet joys of eating and drinking in Rome just like the locals. Above is a collection of books, guides, and videos on food in Italy. Click on any to get more information! For USA guests, see more for more travel items for your upcoming European trip at our Travel Store, or look in amazon.com. Non-USA Guests can search for books or travel items at amazon.co.uk
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