Enjoy some of our favourite spots for wild swimming in Italy.
Wild swimming in Italy is the most magical way to connect with the natural wonders that make Italy such an amazing place for a holiday. In the North, turquoise lakes, framed by magnificent mountain ranges dominate the landscape. Further south, thermal pools hidden in ancient hills, neighbour rivers meandering through volcanic rock.
Italy’s sea beaches are of course a wonderful way to enjoy wild swimming in Italy and you can find some of favourites here. But in this guide, we have chosen to focus on freshwater swimming in Italy’s rivers, lakes and waterfalls. We’ve included some of the most famous (and rightly so!) lakes in the north and some more hidden gems for you to discover too.
Wild Swimming in Italy: The Italian Lakes
The Italian lakes make a wonderful poster for wild swimming in Italy. The backdrop of the northern Italian mountains make the most dramatic scenery for a swim. What’s more there are endless rivers, lakes and waterfalls in which to enjoy a dip. Here are our highlights:
Orrido Di Sant’Anna – Lake Maggiore
This is a wonderful alternative to the main beach at Cannobio (which is also lovely). About 3 km from Cannobio itself – and a well-signed walk – you will find this stunning pool situated at the end of a ravine. You can enjoy a swim in the glistening green waters of the gorge or take a plunge in the main pool. Be warned, it’s deep – up to 14 metres in places and is also used by scuba divers. There are plenty of places to relax and enjoy a picnic and also a good restaurant just behind the church. Click here to see the location on a map.
Lake Orta
Certainly one of Italy’s lesser known lakes, but in our opinion one of the best for wild swimming. There are three main swimming spots on the lake: Spiaggia Lagna, Cappella and Spiaggia Boschina. All are lovely spots to have a swim – the water is always crystal-clear and wonderfully inviting on a warm day. Our favourite is probably Spiaggia Lagna. There’s an abundance of space to lounge around on the grass or under the trees. Although it can get busy in the peak summer months, as it’s completely unequipped, the beach always has a nice ‘wild’ feel to it. If you’re travelling with teens, they will love the pier with its ladder into the water but it is more often used as a diving board into the lake! Click here to see the location on a map.
Valle Delle Cartiere – Lake Garda
Translating to the Valley of Paper, this is a great spot for some wild swimming in Italy – especially if you enjoy a bit of an adventure! From the town of Toscolano-Maderno follow signs for Valle Delle Certiere and you will come to a parking area. Follow the river upstream to the second bridge. There you’ll discover a series of wonderful pools to swim in, surrounded by large rocks and boulders on which to soak up the sun and magnificent tranquillity of the area. If you’re feeling brave you can even use the rocks as natural waterslides between pools!
Cascata Del Cenghen – Lake Como
Perched above the eastern shores of Lake Como this is a magical place for a swim. It does involve a bit of a hike – but it’s worth it! As long as you have plenty of water and good walking shoes, it’s a fairly easy 1hr 30 min walk up to the waterfall from Abbadia Lariana and slightly less from Linzanico. The well-signposted path meanders through trees and is partly in the shade. You’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of the lake. As you approach the main waterfall, there are a series of smaller falls and enticing pools to discover.
The main waterfall stands at an impressive 50 metres and will take your breath away. Although the water is ice-cold, it’s wonderfully inviting after the hike, especially in the summer!
Spiaggia Abbadia Lariana – Lake Como
Our final stop in the lakes for wild swimming in Italy is probably the least wild. The beach at Abbadia Lariana is serviced with loungers and is in part attached to a small campsite. However, please don’t be put off by this! As backdrops go, this is one of the finest we’ve found in Italy. Directly across the lake are the steep slopes of the Sasso Malascarpa Nature Reserve and to the north, the Alps stand strong offering the most stunning sunsets. What’s more the campsite also has a wonderful lakeside Pizzeria and Italian delicatessen. Davide and his team will keep you refreshed all day with drinks and gelatos and we’d recommend finishing the day with a delicious pizza while you watch the sun go down.
Back to the swimming! Here the lake is fed by a series of small waterfalls and a river which makes it one of the cleanest spots for a swim on Lake Como. There are also kayaks and SUPs to rent if you fancy paddle.
Looking for somewhere to stay in the Italian Lakes? Click here to see our Italian Lakes Villas and Apartments. And check out our top tours and activities in the Italian Lakes here.
Wild Swimming in Italy: Tuscany
When we think of Tuscany we probably more often think of Art, History and lush rolling hills. However, it’s with very good reason that we have included this Bookings For You favourite in our guide to wild swimming in Italy. While we would always recommend a visit to Tuscany’s beautiful cities to soak up some culture, there is so much more to this region. Tucked away in the valleys of the Apuan Alps of the north and the volcanic hot springs of the south – Tuscany is a mecca for wild swimming enthusiasts just waiting to be discovered.
Stretti di Giaredo – Nothern Tuscany
Tucked in the most northern corner of Tuscany this is a really special place to go wild swimming in Italy. Just 10 minutes from Pontremoli you’ll find this stunning gorge where the Gordana stream has carved a magnificent channel through the ancient Tuscan rocks. The river links a series of azure pools, while beautiful rock formations tower above you as natural walls. You can experience them all if you’re happy to do a combination of swimming and walking; a waterproof pouch for your phone and wallet are definitely recommended here. What’s more, there are a number of waterfalls that cascade into the pools, creating a magnificent natural kaleidoscope of colours.
To get the most out of this experience we recommend joining a local guide who can help you navigate the gorges. This does need to be booked in advance. Click here to check for availability.
Find the location on a map here.
Fosso Bianco – Southern Tuscany
A guide to wild swimming in Italy would not be complete without a trip to at least one of Tuscany’s wonderful natural hot springs. Fosso Bianco is well signposted from the parking area alongside the road. After a short walk through the woods, you will meet the stream and the first pools. From there, head upstream and you will find the main waterfall.
The waterfall itself has been affectionately named ‘The White Whale’, after the magnificent white rocks which have formed from the limestone and calcium in the water. These pools and springs are wonderfully warm all year round and we would recommend heading here in the autumn, spring or even the winter to avoid the crowds which can gather in the summer months. The higher you climb the warmer the pools become.
Click here to see the location on a map.
Candalla Camaiore – Central Tuscany
Perfectly placed between the Aupuan Alpa and the Tuscan coast, the pools at Candalla are a jewel amongst forests and ancient ruins. Park on the road just before the mill and follow the path down to the river. Here there are a series of linked pools, canyons and waterfalls to explore. Choose between lounging on the natural terraces above the water or get your adrenaline going by jumping into the ice-cold pools of crystal-clear water.
Click here to find the location on a map.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Tuscany? Click here to see our stunning villas and apartments in Tuscany. And, click here to see our top Tuscany tours and experiences.
Wild Swimming in Italy: Umbria
Umbria is a wonderful region to enjoy as a wild swimming enthusiast. Pristine lakes, crystal-clear rivers, and hidden waterfalls make it one of our favourite regions for wild swimming in Italy. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful swim or an exhilarating plunge, Umbria’s wild swimming locations promise an unforgettable connection with nature.
Lake Trasimeno
While Italy’s most famous lakes are in the north of the country, Lake Trasimeno is somewhat of a hidden gem. Measuring 128 square kilometres, it is only just smaller than Lake Como. Yet at only 5 metres deep, it maintains a wonderfully mild temperature for wild swimming well into the Autumn.
Lake Trasimeno, is a paradise for wild swimming enthusiasts. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, surrounded by lush landscapes and rolling hills. With numerous secluded spots and sandy beaches, the lake offers an especially scenic swimming experience.
Around the lake, there are a good range of water sports to keep everyone in the family entertained too. If you fancy some time on the water, paddleboards and Kayaks are available to rent. However, we always recommend using a guide to help you stay safe while also getting the most out of your time on the lake. The best place to begin your experience is on Tuoro Beach. Click here to see what’s on offer from our partner Viator.
Cascate delle Marmore
As the largest man-made waterfall in the world, Cascate delle Marmore is a magnificent sight. Standing at an immense 165 metres high, the falls are a must-see destination if you’re visiting Umbria.
While the falls are split across three levels, there are many viewing platforms from which to enjoy the wonderful vistas and take some fantastic photos. Outside of Italy, Cascate delle Marmore are still fairly unknown, so be prepared for Instagram comments asking where you are!
Entrance to the falls is 10 euros. This allows access to the hiking trails and amenities in the park. Tickets are available at the entrance. There are well-maintained facilities including toilets and a lovely cafe where you can enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat with the most stunning backdrop.
For safety reasons, swimming in the main waterfalls is forbidden however don’t let this put you off! There are numerous wonderful swimming spots in the river around the falls. Travel west on the SP209 to find natural pools and small caves to explore, away from the tourists at the main site of the falls.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Umbria? Check out our selection of villas and apartments here. And, find our top selection of tours and activities in Umbria here.
Wild Swimming in Italy Checklist
- Check water temperatures carefully – warm up and always have something warm to put on after a swim.
- Wear water shoes to protect your feet.
- Never jump into pools unless you’ve checked they are safe first.
- Swim in pairs or groups.
- Check the weather forecast! Avoid gorges if heavy rain is expected.
- Respect nature – help us keep these spots special by taking rubbish home with you.
- Take a Go Pro or waterproof pouch for your phone to capture these memories.
Accommodation Perfect for Wild Swimming in Italy
Are you looking for the perfect place to stay while wild swimming in Italy? Our team Bookings For You is always happy to help you find your perfect villa or apartment. We have decades of experience travelling and wild swimming in Italy – contact us to start making your plans.
