Lago d’Iseo or Lake Iseo is the fourth largest lake in Lombardy. Located an hour north-east of Milan by train and close to Brescia and Bergamo, the charming lake is encircled by green mountains.

Sights

Several medieval towns dot the shores of Lago d’Iseo. Among the largest towns are Iseo and Sarnico, which are home to a range of lodging options including campsites and bed and breakfasts. Iseo is home to a well-preserved eleventh century castle, the twelfth century Pieve St. Andrea church, and the seventeenth century Santuario Madonna della Neve.

Activities

The countryside around Lago d’Iseo can be explored on foot or by bike, or even on horseback. Sailing, swimming, fishing and diving are also popular activities. Monte Isola is a remote island the middle of the lake, connected to the mainland by regular ferry services. The town is a peaceful island getaway, and a trail around the island is a great way to appreciate stunning mountain views by foot or bike. The island is also the site of a fifteenth century fortress and a seventeenth century baroque church, S. Michele in the fishing village of Peshiera Maraglio.

Day Trips

The Franciacorta wine region is a short drive from the lake, which is where some of the world’s most renowned sparkling lines are produced. The beautiful city of Bergamo is also close and features a hilltop medieval quarter with narrow cobblestone streets and seventeenth century walls.