Some of these lakes are expensive and popular resorts, while others are accessible to everyone.
Europe is a lake-rich region. In total, there are more than 500 thousand lakes with a mirror area of more than 1 hectare and many more smaller lakes. Most of them are known only to local residents, but some have a worldwide fame, and quite deservedly. The publication Independent has compiled a top 7 of European lakes, each of which is worth visiting at least once by every traveler.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is the deepest and most glamorous lake in Italy. George Clooney fell in love with it so much that he bought two villas in the town of Lago and connected them with a private bridge. Lake Como is often featured in movies, including Casino Royale, Star Wars: Episode II, and Ocean’s Twelve.
You can see the cinematic landscapes from the ferries that run between the cities of Como, Belaggio, and Varenna, or from the funicular to Brunate, which offers a breathtaking panorama from above. On foot, you can explore the peaceful botanical gardens of Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina and the time-worn cobblestone streets of Belaggio.
Lake Geneva, Switzerland / France
Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in Western Europe (73 km long). It was here, in the Villa Diodati in 1816, that Mary Shelley invented “Frankenstein” during a thunderstorm over the lake.
The lake offers a variety of exciting experiences. One of the main attractions is the Rochers-de-Naye railway, which ascends from Montreux through meadows and forests to an altitude of over 2,000 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Eiger and Mont Blanc.
In the town of Montreux, you can visit Chillon Castle and then take the Belle Époque steamship to Geneva, where you can see the Jet d’Eau, the highest fountain in the world. It sprays over 400 liters of water per second at a height of 140 meters, making it the perfect spot for photos.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled, located in the Julian Alps, looks like a scene from a living fairy tale. In the middle of this 2-kilometer-long lake, which dates back to the last ice age, there is a picturesque island with a 15th-century Church of the Assumption. Above the lake’s edge stands Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff at over 130 meters above sea level.
For a romantic adventure, you can rent a traditional wicker boat and go to the island. To get the best views, you can climb the trail to the castle or visit the Oystritsa or Malaya Osoinitsa lookout points.
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Located just 32 km north of Glasgow, this lake is easily accessible by transport, but it is stunning for its untouched landscapes.
The ancient volcano Ben Lomond (974 m) rises above the cool waters, which reach a depth of 190 m and cover an area of 70 km², making it the largest lake in the UK.
There are about 30 islands scattered throughout the territory, some of which are accessible to visitors.
Inchmurrin, the largest inland island of the lake (2.4 km long), welcomes visitors with a seasonal ferry. Trails lead past the ruins of a 14th-century castle and a 7th-century monastery, while a restaurant and bar provide a pleasant pause. There is also the option of staying overnight.
Hiking enthusiasts should climb to the top of Ben Lomond, which offers a panoramic view of the entire lake, and in clear weather, the landscape can be seen for up to 100 km around.
Lovotnen, Norway
For those who want to spend time on an amazing lake almost in private, at any time of the year, Lovotn is the perfect option. It is impressive and still relatively empty.
The 11-kilometer reservoir is enchanted by its deep blue color from glacial deposits, mountains over 1,800 meters high, waterfalls that fall from a height of almost 1,000 meters, and a mirror-like surface on quiet mornings.
This is a real dream for photographers.
One of the best angles is Rakssetra, an old mountain farm high above the northern coast, where the old huts perfectly complement the shot.
Ohrid Lake – North Macedonia/Albania
The lake is known as the “European Galapagos,” a living laboratory that is about four million years old and has preserved more than 200 endemic species, including the famous Ohrid trout and the world’s only freshwater sponge.
But this lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the border between North Macedonia and Albania, is not only beautiful but also rich in history.
Activities include swimming in the clear water, which warms up to around 24°C in summer, and exploring the city of Ohrid, with its steep, cobblestone streets leading to the 13th-century Church of St. John in Kaneo, perched on a cliff above the lake.
Do not miss the museum “Bay of Bones” 16 km from Ohrid-a recreated ancient village on stilts, allowing you to look into the ancient history of the reservoir.
Achensee, Austria
The Austrian lake Achesee is often compared to the Norwegian fjords, and its steep cliffs and deep turquoise water have earned it the nickname “The Fjord of the Alps”.
The water from underground sources is so clean that it meets drinking standards. Visibility reaches about 10 meters.
In the summer, when the water temperature rises to around 20°C, it’s a great time to swim, go saping, or take a boat trip between Pertisao, Ahenkirch, and Maurach.
To appreciate the beauty from above, you can take the historic Achensee Gondola, which has been operating since 1889. It ascends 550 meters, passing through alpine meadows and forests, before offering breathtaking views of the lake from a height of almost 1,000 meters.
