Best lakes around Filiano are primarily found in the vicinity of the Monticchio Lakes, situated at the foot of Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano. This area is characterized by its natural landscape, featuring greenish waters and dense, lush forests. The lakes are an integral part of the Vulture Regional Nature Reserve, highlighting their ecological importance. The region offers a tranquil environment for nature exploration.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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First panoramic point on the large lake a few steps from the small lake. Spectacular view, furthermore only at this point is it possible to admire up close the bald cypress plants whose trunk has a wide base and develops a dense network of roots that re-emerge from the ground, called "respiratory roots", and anchor it to the ground allowing its survival even in winter when due to flooding the ground becomes muddy and marshy.
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The colors of the small lake of Monticchio really leave you breathless. A corner of paradise in which to take refuge on hot days.
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The blue color of the small lake is more appreciated in winter or in summer in the early hours of the day when there is no haze. One of the things that makes Lago Piccolo di Monticchio so special is its volcanic origin. The lake is located inside an ancient volcanic crater, giving the landscape a unique and fascinating character. Walking along its banks is like taking a journey through time, admiring the traces of the geological past of this region.
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Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo lie, at about 650 meters above sea level, on the crater of Monte Vulture, an extinct volcano. Their greenish waters, separated by a thin line of land, are surrounded by lush forests of beech and oak.
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The Piccolo lake, together with the Grande lake, constitutes a nature reserve of great value, together they offer breathtaking views.
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These beautiful lakes are located at the foot of the now extinct Vulture volcano. The beauty of this place has earned it the nickname of "Switzerland of Basilicata". The lakes are located within the Vulture Regional Nature Reserve.
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With a slow trend it is possible to discover unique spots where nature takes its course ...
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The primary natural features are the Monticchio Lakes themselves, nestled at the foot of Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano. These lakes are known for their greenish waters and are surrounded by dense, lush forests. The entire area is part of the Vulture Regional Nature Reserve, offering a unique volcanic landscape and rich flora.
Yes, the area around the Monticchio Lakes features historical elements. For instance, the Monticchio Lakes and Abbey Loop highlights a route that includes an abbey, suggesting historical significance in the vicinity. The volcanic origin of the lakes also contributes to the unique character of the landscape.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with routes like the 'Foggy Forest – View of Monticchio Lakes loop' or the 'Lago Piccolo di Monticchio loop'. There are also options for road cycling and mountain biking. For detailed hiking routes, explore the Hiking around Filiano guide.
Yes, the Monticchio Lakes are considered family-friendly. The tranquil and picturesque environment, with lush forests and scenic views, provides a pleasant setting for family outings and nature exploration.
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the View of Lago Piccolo di Monticchio highlight suggests that the blue color of Lago Piccolo is best appreciated in winter or in summer during the early hours of the day when there is no haze. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Several spots offer spectacular views. The Cypress Knees and Panoramic View of Lago Grande provides a stunning vantage point of the large lake. Additionally, the View of Lago Piccolo di Monticchio offers a great perspective of the smaller lake, especially in clear conditions.
Yes, at the Cypress Knees and Panoramic View of Lago Grande, you can observe bald cypress plants with their distinctive 'respiratory roots'. These unique roots re-emerge from the ground, allowing the trees to survive even when the ground becomes muddy and marshy during winter flooding.
The Monticchio Lakes are unique due to their volcanic origin, being situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, Mount Vulture. Their greenish waters, surrounded by dense forests, have earned them the nickname 'Switzerland of Basilicata' for their exceptional natural beauty and tranquil setting within the Vulture Regional Nature Reserve.
Yes, some routes offer a challenge. For example, the Monticchio Lakes and Abbey Loop includes a challenging descent from the Abbey to the small lake via a long staircase. Other routes, like the 'Foggy Forest – View of Monticchio Lakes loop' and 'Lago Piccolo di Monticchio loop' in the Hiking around Filiano guide, are rated as difficult.
Visitors highly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The scenic charm, often compared to the 'Switzerland of Basilicata', the unique volcanic landscape, and the lush forests surrounding the greenish waters are frequently mentioned highlights. The opportunity for peaceful nature exploration is a key draw.
While some routes are challenging, the general environment of the Monticchio Lakes, with its picturesque setting, offers opportunities for easier strolls along the shores and through the surrounding forests. Look for shorter, less strenuous sections of trails or explore the immediate vicinity of the lakes for a more relaxed experience.


Still not found your perfect lake around Filiano? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.