Lago di Giacopiane

Lago di Giacopiane is an artificial reservoir located in the Aveto Regional Natural Park above Borzonasca in Liguria. The water body is encircled by a walking loop that takes roughly one hour to complete and remains mostly level throughout.

The reservoir was created as an artificial structure and is now part of a protected area that also supports wild Bardigiano horses. The surrounding region has maintained its rural character for centuries, shaped by chestnut forests and terraces from earlier agricultural practices.

The reservoir sits in a region shaped by rural traditions and the presence of wild horses that have lived here for generations. Today, visitors come to walk its perimeter and observe these animals in their natural habitat, making the lake a place where human and animal worlds meet.

The site is only accessible by car, and visitors need a daily pass available at local bars in Borzonasca, which must be displayed on the vehicle. The final stretch of road is partially unpaved and recreational vehicles are not permitted, so arrive prepared with sufficient water.

The area is home to roughly 40 wild Bardigiano horses, an Italian breed that has adapted to mountain conditions, and the Wild Horse Watching project launched in 2012 allows visitors to observe them with expert guides. This adds an unexpected dimension to a simple lake visit.