Tucked into the mountains of central Italy, Lago di Scanno is the famous heart-shaped lake in Abruzzo that tends to pop up in travel photos without much explanation.
Where is the heart-shaped lake in Italy?
Sitting at around 930 metres above sea level, the heart-shaped lake in Italy is located in the region of Abruzzo, in the province of L’Aquila.
Lago di Scanno sits within one of Italy’s most important protected areas, the Abruzzo National Park, a vast stretch of mountain terrain known for its wildlife and untamed scenery.
How was Lago di Scanno formed?
Unlike glacial lakes found in northern Italy, Lago di Scanno was created by a dramatic geological event. Thousands of years ago, a major landslide from Monte Genzana blocked the course of the Tasso River, forming a natural basin that gradually filled with water.
The landslide altered the valley’s structure entirely, creating what is now considered one of the most picturesque natural lakes in Italy. The iconic heart shape is not visible from the shoreline. It can only be seen from higher vantage points above the lake.
Legends of Lago di Scanno
Like many places in rural Italy, Lago di Scanno comes with a layer of folklore that still forms part of its identity.
One of the most enduring stories tells of Bailardo, a magician who supposedly created the lake through an incantation. According to tradition, he caused part of the mountain to collapse to protect King Battifoloro from an enemy siege, creating a natural refuge in the process.
Another legend speaks of a fairy fleeing from a powerful sorcerer. In her desperation, she created the lake as a place of safety and concealment. These stories add to the lake’s reputation as more than just a scenic stop.
The mysteries of the heart-shaped lake in Abruzzo
Beyond folklore, Lago di Scanno is associated with more unsettling stories. There are local accounts of mysterious disappearances in the lake’s waters, hidden caves beneath the surface and strange lights reportedly seen at night.
How to see the heart shape of Lago di Scanno
The heart shape that made Lago di Scanno famous isn’t visible from ground level. To see it clearly, you’ll need to walk up to a designated viewpoint.
The Osservatorio del Cuore (Heart Observatory) is the main panoramic point overlooking the lake. From here, the heart outline becomes clearly visible, especially in good light.
The viewpoint is reached via the Sentiero del Cuore, a well-marked walking trail. The walk will take around 45 minutes if starting from the lakeside, or 30 minutes if starting from the Borgo di Scanno.
The trail passes through woodland and opens onto a panoramic terrace overlooking both the lake and the surrounding valley. It’s accessible and clearly signposted, making it manageable for most visitors.
Things to do at Lago di Scanno
While many people come purely for the view, there’s more to do here than take photographs. The lake is surrounded by various walking trails, making it suitable for hikers who want to explore the wider Abruzzo National Park area.
In the warmer months, activities include swimming in the lake, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, and renting a rowing or pedal boat.
Visiting the Borgo di Scanno
A visit to Lago di Scanno usually includes time in the nearby Borgo di Scanno, a medieval hill village close to the lake. The village is characterised by narrow cobbled lanes, stone houses, historic churches and small artisan shops
It’s compact enough to explore on foot, and wandering through its winding streets gives context to the landscape around the lake.
If you’re looking at lesser-known corners of Italy rather than the usual postcard circuit, this part of Abruzzo feels distinctly different, and that’s precisely why it stays with you.
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