Lago di Paola
A serene brackish lake within Circeo National Park, offering stunning sunsets, historical ruins, and outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour views
Lago di Paola
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene brackish lake within Circeo National Park, offering stunning sunsets, historical ruins, and outdoor activities.
"It's incredible to be able to admire views like Domitian's residence and the small church of Soreca; the charm of the place seems to make every experience memorable."
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the sunset! The colors reflecting on the water are incredible.
🛶 Kayak or Canoe Adventure
Explore the lake's shores and hidden coves by kayak or canoe for a unique perspective.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Over the Water
Lake Paola shores
Witness the sky ablaze with color reflecting on the tranquil brackish waters. A truly magical sight.
Santuario della Sorresca
Eastern shore of Lago di Paola
An ancient Benedictine sanctuary offering serene views and a glimpse into the lake's rich history.
Villa di Domiziano
Near the lake
Explore the ruins of this ancient Roman imperial residence, a testament to the area's historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sunset Magic
Explore Beyond the Shores
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the sunset! The colors reflecting on the water are incredible.
🛶 Kayak or Canoe Adventure
Explore the lake's shores and hidden coves by kayak or canoe for a unique perspective.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks or runs along the lake's perimeter, especially beautiful in the morning.
🏛️ Historical Exploration
Combine your lake visit with historical sites like Domitian's Villa and Sorresca Sanctuary.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Don't miss the sunset! The colors reflecting on the water are incredible.
🛶 Kayak or Canoe Adventure
Explore the lake's shores and hidden coves by kayak or canoe for a unique perspective.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks or runs along the lake's perimeter, especially beautiful in the morning.
🏛️ Historical Exploration
Combine your lake visit with historical sites like Domitian's Villa and Sorresca Sanctuary.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lago di Paola's stunning natural beauty, particularly its breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky and reflect on the tranquil waters. The historical significance, with sites like Domitian's Villa and the Sorresca Sanctuary, adds a rich layer to the experience. It's a peaceful escape perfect for outdoor activities and photography.
"A beautiful brackish lake, nestled within the Circeo National Park. Almost 4 square kilometers and a 20-kilometer perimeter, it overlooks the elegant bulk of Mount Circeo. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it has always been popular for its fish farming. Emperor Nero began building the Roman Canal with the intention of creating a protected navigation channel between Ostia and Lake Averno. In the 12th century, the Benedictines settled there in the Sorresca Sanctuary. Its current appearance, with the opportunity to enjoy sports on its shores (rowing, hiking, running, cycling, etc.), was achieved after land reclamation work in the Pontine Marshes. It is connected to the Caprolace, Fogliano, and Monaci lakes. In addition to sports and recreational activities, it is a beautiful experience at sunset."
Claudio Mastronicola
"Lake Paola (also known as the "Sabaudia Lagoon" or "Lake Sabaudia") is a brackish coastal lake in the province of Latina, in the Lazio region.
It has a surface area of approximately 3.9 km² (entirely within the municipality of Sabaudia and the Circeo National Park), a perimeter of approximately 20 km, an average depth of 4.5 meters, and a maximum depth of 10 meters. It is separated from the sea by a coastal dune, and water exchange is ensured by two artificial canals: the mouth of the Caterattino River and the mouth of the Romano Canal in Torre Paola. Connected to the nearby Lake Caprolace by the Fossa Augusta Canal, it, along with the other two lakes of Fogliano and Monaci, is part of a Wetland of International Interest. Motorized navigation is prohibited, and it hosts a rich fish farming industry, with mussels and oysters. It is home to rowing and sailing sports. Humans have been present on the lake shores since prehistoric times. Findings of ancient villas and cisterns date back to the 1st century BC, while the Roman Canal was built by Emperor Nero, who ordered its construction, likely to create a safe navigation route from the port of Ostia to Lake Averno. The ambitious project was later abandoned.
Between the 12th and 14th centuries, Benedictine monks re-established themselves on its shores, in the Sanctuary of Sorresca, and there they began their first fishing activity. Subsequently, Pope Boniface VIII entrusted the lake to the Caetani family, as it was part of the Circeo fiefdom. The lake area was marshy and unhealthy, so the Papal Administration began reclamation work and in 1721 restored the Roman Canal, but it was only thanks to the reclamation work of the Pontine Marshes that Lake Paola assumed its current appearance."
Alberto Gozzelino
"One of the places where you can see Lake Paola is from the beautiful Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Sorresca"
Paola
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago di Paola is located in Sabaudia, within the Circeo National Park. You can reach it by car, with parking available near the lake's access points. Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.
While direct public transport to the lake itself can be infrequent, you can take buses to Sabaudia and then potentially arrange local transport or enjoy a walk to the lake. Check local bus schedules in advance.
Access is often via trails starting from the National Park entrance. A popular trail is approximately 3 km long, offering scenic views as you approach the lake.
Driving is possible to areas around the lake, but motorized navigation on the lake itself is prohibited. Parking availability can vary, especially during peak season.
Yes, Lago di Paola is situated within the beautiful Circeo National Park, offering a protected natural environment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to the lake shores and surrounding park areas is free. However, specific attractions within the park or historical sites might have separate admission fees.
The lake is a natural area and is generally accessible at all times. However, any facilities or historical sites nearby will have their own operating hours.
Parking fees can apply in designated areas, especially during the summer months or at popular access points. It's advisable to check local signage for current rates.
While it's a brackish lake, swimming is generally permitted in designated areas. However, always check for local advisories regarding water quality or safety.
Access to the general areas of Circeo National Park is usually free. Some specific trails or visitor centers might have associated costs, but the lake itself is open.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy rowing, hiking, running, cycling, and canoeing. The lake is also a fantastic spot for photography, especially at sunset.
As part of a wetland of international interest, the lake and its surroundings are rich in biodiversity and offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Guided tours focusing on the natural environment or historical aspects, like Domitian's Villa, may be available. It's best to check with local park authorities or tour operators.
Late afternoon is highly recommended for the stunning sunset views. Mornings are also pleasant for outdoor activities before the heat of the day.
Yes, families can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and the natural beauty. The calm waters are also suitable for gentle boating activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sabaudia town offers various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. You can find local cuisine and fresh seafood.
Picnicking is a great option! There are scenic spots around the lake where you can enjoy a meal amidst nature. Remember to clean up after yourself.
The region is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, local vegetables, pasta dishes, and excellent wines.
While direct facilities right on the lake might be limited, you can find cafes and bars in the nearby town of Sabaudia.
Given the lake's history of fish farming, you might find opportunities to purchase fresh local fish, though this is not guaranteed.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores offer beautiful vantage points, especially during sunset. The Sorresca Sanctuary and views towards Mount Circeo are also highly photogenic.
Golden hour, just before and during sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a tripod is essential for sunset shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for Circeo National Park before flying a drone.
Photography is generally allowed at historical sites, but always be mindful of any posted rules or restrictions, especially during ongoing archaeological work.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Santuario della Sorresca for a touch of history and a peaceful atmosphere. While direct playgrounds might be scarce, the open spaces and natural environment encourage imaginative play. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be sure to check for any local advisories before swimming.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
Kayaking and rowing are highly recommended for exploring the lake's extensive shores and discovering hidden spots. The combination of water sports and land-based activities makes it a perfect spot for a day of diverse physical engagement.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the historical ruins like Domitian's Villa, which add a layer of depth and narrative to your shots. Remember to bring a tripod for those stunning sunset and low-light conditions, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The lake's current appearance is largely a result of land reclamation efforts in the Pontine Marshes. These works, along with the restoration of the Roman Canal in 1721, transformed the marshy, unhealthy area into the picturesque landscape seen today. The lake is now connected to other nearby lakes like Caprolace, Fogliano, and Monaci, forming a significant wetland ecosystem.
Archaeological excavations, like those mentioned by IMT Lucca, continue to uncover more about the ancient villas and cisterns dating back to the 1st century BC, offering a deeper understanding of the human presence and activity around Lago di Paola throughout the centuries.
Activities and Recreation
Beyond the water, the surrounding parkland offers ample opportunities for hiking, running, and cycling. The trails provide scenic routes with views of the lake and the majestic Mount Circeo. The area is also a prime location for birdwatching, as it's part of a wetland of international importance, attracting diverse avian species.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, simply walking along the shores or enjoying a picnic amidst nature is highly recommended. The lake is also a celebrated spot for photography, especially during the magical hours of sunrise and sunset.
The Natural Environment
The lake is home to a rich fish farming industry, with mussels and oysters being notable products. Motorized navigation is prohibited, preserving the tranquility of the environment and protecting its delicate ecosystem. The diverse flora and fauna contribute to its status as a valuable natural reserve.
The landscape is dominated by the elegant bulk of Mount Circeo, which provides a stunning backdrop to the lake. The area's natural beauty, combined with its historical significance, makes Lago di Paola a captivating destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.



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