This delightful place attracts both tourists from all over the world and talented people looking for inspiration. Surrounded by olive trees, the alpine Lake Iseo (Italy) is compared to a precious stone, and the setting for it are charming mountains and picturesque hills.
In the 18th century, the English traveler M. W. Montagu, who visited many exotic places, wrote that she had discovered the most romantic corner she had ever met.
Natural Masterpiece
Lago d'Iseo, located in northern Italy, delights with its beauty everyone who comes to enjoy an indescribable natural masterpiece. The picturesque reservoir, which gave its name to the city on the southern coast, differs from all the others in that its low water temperature persists even in hot summers. And the unique phenomenon is explained by "nutrition" due to cold springs underground.
This is the smallest of the so-called great lakes of Lombardy and not very popular, but everyone who once visited a cozy place is in a hurry to repeat the fascinatingtravel. And even ice water does not become an obstacle for tourists who come to relax in the bosom of nature and explore the underwater depths.
Small Lake Iseo is surrounded on all sides by colorful villages, which are famous for their elegant architectural buildings. The locals fish, make excellent quality natural olive oil and wonderful wine, and no tourist leaves without shopping.
Lake Iseo attractions
The long and narrow lake is known for the fact that in its waters there is an inhabited island, which is recognized as the highest in Europe: Monte Isola is located at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level. It is home to approximately 1,800 netting and exporting people. At first, the inhabitants wove willow branches, and later they began to use silk threads.
Thanks to good transport links, the islanders work in other cities without changing their place of residence.
If you sail on a boat to Monte Isola, bathed in greenery, it seems that the island-mountain suddenly rises and moves with its power right at the tourists. There is practically no transport here, and bicycle rental is provided for guests.
The western part of the natural lake island is very picturesque - it is a gentle slope with olive trees and wonderful gardens. And in the east of the natural attraction, Italian hang gliders take off from the steep banks.
Church on the mountain
The outstanding place is a small church,located on the highest point of the island. From the top of the mountain, a truly magical view of Lake Iseo (Italy) opens, however, getting to the temple, which houses the wooden figure of the Madonna, is not so easy, and the walking route takes more than an hour.
The sanctuary, which symbolized the transition to a new faith and the rejection of pagan superstitions, was in ruins for a long time, and only at the end of the 16th century began its restoration. A new temple was erected, a beautiful vault instead of the usual roof, forged gates were installed and new chapels were added, and later a bell tower appeared. In a working church, you can pray and repent.
After overcoming all the obstacles, tourists are rewarded with a wonderful scenery that takes their breath away. It seems that the island growing right out of the water and Lake Iseo are protected from all adversity by the miraculous power of the Mother of God.
Two satellite islands
There are two small islands nearby - Sao Paolo and Loreto, which are privately owned and deserve to be told about them in more detail.
The private island of Isola di Loreto changed its owners until it was bought by Captain V. Riccieri in the 20th century, who built a neo-Gothic castle on the lake and created a green park of coniferous trees. The unique beauty of the mysterious structure is perfectly complemented by the rocky shores of Iseo. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get to the island, but tourists are happy to sail on a sightseeing ship around the fabulously beautifulseats.
Small San Paolo is famous for the fact that in the Middle Ages it was the base for military courts, and after it was handed over to the monks, a church was erected on the island. Later, a colony for dangerous criminals was arranged here. Now, thanks to the new owners, a beautiful cottage has appeared on Isola di San Paolo.
Installation turned cultural event
Recently, Lake Iseo, formed by an ancient glacier, became known to the whole world. The bridge that appeared here is a pontoon pavement about three kilometers long. From June 18 to July 3, 2016, it was possible to walk on the water, along the footpaths, consisting of polyethylene cubes. This world's only floating bridge has been recognized as a true work of art.
The installation of plastic cubes wrapped in an orange fabric that changes color with light and weather attracted a huge number of guests. Tourists who came to Lake Iseo (Italy) walked along the floating piers for free. The 35 cm high bridge connecting the islands of Sao Paolo and Monte Isola has been named the loudest cultural event of the month in the world.
The American artist who created the project spent more than 15 million euros, and the authorities of the region bailed out three times as much.
For life and leisure
Lake Iseo, described by George Sand as a "wonderful place to live", is ideal for a relaxing holiday. A corner with a peaceful atmosphere, falling in love with you at first sight, will give you unforgettable minutes and leave indelible impressions fromcontact with virgin nature.
