Lago di Scanno, Natural lake in Sagittario Valley, Abruzzo, Italy.
Lago di Scanno is a natural lake nestled in the Sagittario Valley at 930 meters elevation, surrounded by forested slopes that rise sharply from the water's edge. The lake reaches depths of around 32 meters and features a sandy southern shore equipped with facilities for swimmers and visitors.
A prehistoric landslide from Mount Genzana blocked the Tasso River at the end of the last ice age, creating this natural basin that has endured for millennia. This geological event shaped the landscape into the water body seen today.
The Church of Madonna del Lago has anchored spiritual life on the shore since the 1700s and remains a place where visitors pause to reflect. Its altar rests against the natural rock face, merging human devotion with the surrounding landscape.
The lake is easily reached through a southern beach area offering boat rentals, sunshades, and dining options for day visitors. Arriving early, especially on warm days, helps you secure a good spot since the beach can become crowded.
From specific vantage points along the Sentiero del Cuore hiking trail, the lake's outline forms a perfect heart shape when viewed from above. Few visitors realize this natural phenomenon exists unless they know to look for it from these particular mountain viewpoints.
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