Less than an hour away from Rome by car, and not much more by rail to either Bracciano or Anguillara Sabazia, Lake Bracciano is a picturesque volcanic lake lined with shaded beaches and pretty towns with lakeside cafes, bars and restaurants — and gelateria! The best places to stay in Lake Bracciano are dotted along its shores and you can expect a range of properties from charming little guesthouses to luxury hotels with every facility you can imagine.
Lake Bracciano’s waters are super clear, though the volcanic lakebed can be squishy, so some families might prefer the lido style sections of shoreline, with their parasols, sun-loungers, pedal boats and watermark inflatables. The lake has some pebble beaches too, which tend to be more popular with windsurfers. Bracciano is the largest centre on the lake, an historic place to visit, with a fantastic castle, and a charming centre, run through with pretty lanes and alleyways harbouring unique boutiques, galleries, cafes and fancy bakeries. Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano Romano are smaller villages, and easily some of the best places to stay on Lake Bracciano if you’re looking forward to aperativos and sunset views.
If you’re staying for more than a few days, you can enjoy day trips to Lake Martignano (a neighbouring lake, best described as an undeveloped little sister, also lined with pretty beaches and restaurants, and another lovely place for a stroll) or the ruins of Canale Monterano.
The best places to stay in Lake Bracciano are the ideal `add-on if you're planning a visit to Rome, but want to spend more than just a couple of days, and experience a complete contrast to the city. But don't forget that they will be incredibly busy during the peak summer months. So if you plan to visit in July or August, do your research and book well ahead.