Italy is known for its beloved lakes such as Lake Como and Lake Garda. However, not all of its lakes are as well known as one may think and some have been visited by far fewer tourists.

This isn’t because they aren’t beautiful, but because they are either out of the way or have yet to be discovered by the masses.

One of those is Lake Turano. Located in the Rieti province of Italy it is very close to Rome and acts as a safe and beautiful alternative to the bustle of the country’s capital.

According to reports, the area was once home to an ancient tribe known as the Falisci before they were taken out by the Roman Empire.

Several towns and villages are located on Lake Turano’s shores including Castel di Tora and the Colle di Tora.

What’s more whilst it may look like it has been around for centuries or millennia, Lake Turano is in fact less than 100 years old. Il Castellano reported that it was created after the River Turano was dammed in 1939.

In the decades since, nature has flourished around the side of the lake and it is now home to plenty of aquatic species such as eels, trout, and crayfish.

Furthermore, the lake has now begun to develop a following in travel sites where recent visitors have begun to praise and highlight Lake Turano’s beauty.

Writing on Tripadvisor visitor Jenny L said: “From the emerald green lake waters to the medieval villagers dotted across the green mountainside, Lago del Turano is an incredible and completely unexpected discovery.

“The locals at the restaurants are so friendly, the food is seasonal, simple and affordable and there are many scenic areas to explore and fall in love with. Just an hour from Rome, it is cooler in the summer and is not overrun by tourists.”

Fellow user Ibrtata added: “Turano Lake was a surprise discovery in between our trip from Pescara to Roma.

“The ambience is nice, clean and inviting to a relaxing short trip. There are a few villages around the lake and you feel so disconnected from technology [sic].”