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Riva di Solto - Via Cornello 8
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Lake Iseo, also known as Lago Sebino, is a Lombardy lake located in the southernmost area of the Val Camonica and falls within the territories of the provinces of Brescia and Bergamo. Less famous than other Lombardy lakes (such as Lake Como and Lake Garda), this body of water holds exceptional natural heritage, so much so that since 2018 the northern part of the lake (known as Alto Sebino) has been part of the UNESCO biosphere of “Valle Camonica – Alto Sebino”.
The main activity at Lake Iseo is tourism, as these areas can be visited throughout the year, though the period from May to September attracts the most visitors. In particular, it’s mainly water sports enthusiasts (rowing, swimming, windsurfing, fishing, diving activities) and leisure boating fans who appreciate Lake Iseo. Boating is a long-standing tradition, so much so that in Sarnico, a town on the shores of the lake, the prestigious Italian shipyard Riva was founded in 1842, an important producer of luxury vessels.
The climate and environment of the lake favour the cultivation of olive trees, vineyards and orchards, especially along the Bergamo shoreline. In particular, the area between Franciacorta and Valle Camonica is known as the Olive Riviera of Lake Iseo. The lake is also famous for its excellent cuisine and gastronomic heritage. In many traditional restaurants here you can taste local dishes such as casoncei (ravioli filled with eggs), excellent polenta, grilled or stuffed lake fish, and cheeses produced in this area (Taleggio, formaggelle, robiole), all accompanied by fine Franciacorta wine.
The Lake Iseo area is rich in towns and small villages that are keepers of truly ancient historical heritage. Take your time to explore these places leisurely to fully discover their historical, archaeological and gastronomic treasures.
Here’s a mini-guide to the most beautiful locations on Lake Iseo and the attractions you must visit!
Iseo is considered the most important tourist centre on the lake. The town sits along the eastern shore and boasts a well-preserved medieval historic centre with narrow winding streets and tower houses. The heart of the village is Piazza Garibaldi, characterised by historic buildings and arcaded porticoes housing shops and venues.
Here you can admire the first monument erected in Italy in honour of Garibaldi (1883), the Church of Santa Maria del Mercato and Palazzo dei Grani, which houses the Town Hall (1830), a work by architect Vantini. On a rocky outcrop dominating the town from above stands the Castello Oldofredi (12th century), an ancient stronghold that currently houses the Museum of the Two Wars.
Don’t miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria del Mercato (14th century) and to the hamlets of Clusane, famous for its local dish of “tench baked in the oven”. From Iseo, you can also set off to cycle around Lake Sebino. The route, which extends for approximately 62 km, includes sections of dedicated cycle path as well as roads and dirt tracks.
Another town on the Brescia shoreline is Sulzano, which is the departure point for connections to Monte Isola, Italy’s largest lake island. The town is the ideal destination for those looking to combine relaxation with outdoor activities. Its small, intimate ancient village preserves old traditions and artisan shops from times past, while the surrounding woods offer the chance to organise excursions in nature. In summer, those seeking relaxation can sunbathe on various beaches overlooking the lake.
A must-visit stop is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria del Giogo, located at 968 metres altitude along the ancient road that connected Sebino to Brescia. From the sanctuary you can enjoy breathtaking views of both Lake Iseo and Val Trompia. Sulzano became particularly famous in 2016 when the installation “The Floating Piers” was created here – a floating walkway connecting the town to Monte Isola, located in the centre of the lake.
Moving northwards you’ll find Pisogne, a town whose origins date back to Roman times. Its strategic location made Pisogne a transit point for merchants travelling between Brescia and Val Camonica.
Its historic centre is small and well-preserved, centred around Piazza Mercato, where you’ll find historic buildings such as the Bishop’s Tower dating from the 13th century. Don’t miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria della Neve, which houses frescoes painted by Romanino, the most important painter of the Brescia Renaissance.
Considered one of the most romantic villages on Lake Iseo, Lovere is a town of great charm that captivates all its visitors. Situated in the northernmost part of the lake, Lovere preserves historic buildings, ancient churches and an important Academy Gallery.
The heart of the town is Piazza XIII Martiri and the beautiful waterfront, which hosts the town’s leisure port. Don’t miss a visit to the Civic Tower, whose panoramic terrace offers stunning views of Lake Iseo, and to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Valvendra dating from the 15th century. Finally, it’s recommended to visit the Tadini Academy Gallery, which houses works by great artists such as Antonio Canova, Tiepolo, Bellini and Hayez.
Monte Isola is a municipality located on a small island in the middle of Lake Iseo. Monte Isola is not only Italy’s largest lake island but also the largest inhabited island in European lakes. Here, lush Mediterranean vegetation surrounds villages characterised by stone houses, narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches and small shops. No motorised vehicles circulate on the island and access is only by ferries departing from various locations on both the Bergamo shore (Sarnico, Tavernola, Lovere) and the Brescia shore (Iseo, Sulzano, Sale Marasino).
At the highest point, at approximately 600 metres altitude, stands the Sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola, a place that offers beautiful views over the entire lake. The fortress has a quadrangular layout with semicircular towers, while a cylindrical tower rises in the central part. Monte Isola is a must-visit for those who love hiking and nature trails, as there are paths of varying lengths and difficulty levels. Once on the island, it’s impossible to miss a visit to the fascinating village of Peschiera Maraglio, considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. Here time seems to have stood still: it’s lovely to stroll through its narrow streets surrounded by fishermen’s houses and numerous sardines spread out in the sun to dry.
The Bergamo shore of the lake also offers numerous places of great interest, such as Sarnico, a small and charming town that boasts a truly fascinating waterfront connecting with that of Paratico, a location on the Brescia side. Among the things to see in town, a visit to the Gianni Bellini Art Gallery is a must, which houses approximately 200 works by great artists, including a canvas by Palma the Younger. Other sites of interest include: the ancient Church of San Paolo and the nearby clock tower. Sarnico is also famous for the presence of numerous Art Nouveau villas overlooking the lake and surrounded by splendid gardens.
Riva di Solto is one of the lesser-known yet most charming towns on the entire Lake Iseo. The fact that it remains relatively unspoilt has made Riva di Solto a place that has maintained its authentic character as a peaceful fishing village. Its beautiful waterfront, recently renovated, is perfect for leisurely strolls, whilst the historic centre bears direct witness to the town’s ancient origins. Walking through medieval lanes, ancient shops and the small harbour, you can take a real step back in time. Don’t miss a visit to the famous “Orrido del Bogn“, a small cove surrounded by high rocky cliffs. This area is very popular in summer with those who love diving from the high cliffs.
The shores of Lake Iseo are served by scheduled buses from the Arriva company that connect the various locations. In summer, however, traffic along the lake shores can be quite intense, so as an alternative to overland transport, there are also lake transport options available. Scheduled ferries provide year-round connections between the towns of Sulzano, Sale Marasino, Iseo, Monte Isola, Tavernola and Predore; whilst from late March to October the connections expand to all other lake destinations.
Connections to and from Monte Isola are guaranteed every day from the ports of Sulzano and Sale Marasino, also thanks to “Navigazione Lago d’Iseo” routes. Finally, you can also use the Barcaioli Monte Isola Service company, which organises various excursions and cruises to discover the lake and its attractions.
To see all the facilities and book accommodation in Lake Iseo use the form below, entering the dates of your stay.
Lake Iseo is located in eastern Lombardy, stretching between the provinces of Brescia and Bergamo. The River Oglio is its main inlet, and it is home to more than 500 different animal species. Lake Iseo can be easily reached by car via the road network that runs along the shoreline, or by train on the Brescia-Iseo-Edolo and Rovato-Iseo lines.
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