Lago di Scanno is Abruzzo’s famous heart-shaped lake. It’s ideal for a scenic day trip or a quiet overnight.
This guide covers the best viewpoint, easy walks, a simple itinerary, and where to stay.
Best for: couples, photographers, families who like easy walks.
Quick plan (no stress)
2–3 hours: heart-shaped viewpoint + short lakeside stroll
Half day: viewpoint + lake loop section + lunch in Scanno
Full day: add Scanno old town + Valle del Sagittario or Lago di San Domenico
Why visit Lago di Scanno
This is a mountain lake with a calm, “slow travel” feel. One of its best-known features is the heart shape you can see from above.
A well-known local detail is that the lake formed after a landslide from Monte Genzana. That backstory makes the viewpoint even cooler.
What makes it special:
A famous panoramic viewpoint that shows the “heart” shape
A relaxed lakeside vibe for picnics and slow afternoons
Scanno’s old town, with stone lanes and local food
Easy add-ons nearby, like gorges and a second lake with a hermitage
The heart-shaped lake viewpoint (Sentiero del Cuore)
If you only do one thing, do this. The classic photo comes from a trail called Sentiero del Cuore.
Two trailheads (town or lake)
You can usually start the hike from two access points:
From Scanno: follow signs toward Via della Pineta and the trail start
From the lake: look for trail signs near the large lakeside car park
Both options typically meet near the Eremo di Sant’Egidio, then continue toward the belvedere viewpoint.
Navigate tip: follow signs for Sentiero del Cuore and Belvedere.
What to expect on the trail
This is a steady uphill walk, not a flat promenade. Most people reach the viewpoint in around 1 hour, depending on the start point and pace.
Good to know:
Some sections can be slippery after rain.
The viewpoint gets busy in high season.
With kids, stay close near edges and viewpoints.
Best time of day for photos
Morning: quieter paths and crisp light
Late afternoon: softer tones and warmer colours
Nearby stops to add (short drives, big payoff)
You can easily turn this into a weekend base. Or add one nearby highlight for a full-day loop.
Valle del Sagittario and Gole del Sagittario (WWF Oasis)
This area is known for dramatic limestone gorges carved by the Sagittario river.
It is also a WWF Oasis and regional nature reserve, based around Anversa degli Abruzzi.
Ideas:
Nature walks and short viewpoints
A quick stop at the visitor area (when open)
A slow nature break between villages
Lago di San Domenico and Eremo di San Domenico
This is a classic nearby pairing near Villalago. The hermitage sits right by the water.
Good for:
couples
road-trippers
travellers who want a second “iconic” stop
Villalago
Villalago is a calmer base choice. It feels quieter than Scanno and works well for slow mornings.
Where to stay: Scanno vs Villalago (micro-areas)
If you stay overnight, choose your base by comfort. The right location saves time every day.
Scanno micro-areas (choose by comfort)
Historic center: best for charm and walkable dinners. Prioritise quiet windows, clear check-in, and air conditioning in warm months.
Edge of town: best for easy parking and quick road access. Filter for reliable parking and a balcony or terrace.
Near the lake: best for early walks and quiet mornings. Look for lake views, outdoor space, and simple access to the paths.
Best Places to Stay in Scanno
- 🔍Bed & Breakfast Costanza4
Review score & reviews: 9.8 (73 reviews)
A top-rated B&B with comfortable rooms and a classic Scanno village feel. Guests often mention great hosting and a strong breakfast. Best for couples and travellers who want an easy, walkable base.
Neighborhood/landmark: Overlooking Scanno’s historic town; walkable to the centre (and often described as doable to reach the lake on foot).
Key facilities: Free WiFi.
Why it stands out: One of Scanno’s highest-scoring stays for atmosphere, comfort, and consistently excellent guest feedback. - 🔍B&B Angela
Review score & reviews: 9.6 (185 reviews)
A friendly, reliable B&B known for cleanliness and a very good breakfast. A great choice for road-trippers thanks to simple logistics and good comfort. Best for couples, first-timers, and drivers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Scanno base with a location guests praise for exploring town.
Key facilities: Free parking, free WiFi.
Why it stands out: High ratings plus lots of reviews, with the practical extras people want in a small mountain village. - 🔍Il Palazzo
Review score & reviews: 9.4 (324 reviews)
A character-rich stay with scenic mountain views and an old-town atmosphere. Feels boutique and calm, with pleasant shared spaces for slow mornings. Best for couples and travellers who want a historic vibe.
Neighborhood/landmark: In/near Scanno’s old town (often described as the higher part of the historic area).
Key facilities: Garden, terrace, shared lounge.
Why it stands out: Strong “Scanno experience” feeling—historic setting, views, and a very high guest score. - 🔍La Dimora di d’Annunzio
Review score & reviews: 9.3 (161 reviews)
A charming, traditional-style stay with mountain views and a quiet, local feel. Good for travellers who want comfort without losing the village character. Best for couples and drivers who value easy parking.
Neighborhood/landmark: In Scanno’s historic district.
Key facilities: Free parking, free WiFi, shared lounge.
Why it stands out: Combines a historic setting with the two big practical wins in Scanno: parking and reliable comfort. - 🔍Hotel Garnì Mille Pini
Review score & reviews: 8.9 (721 reviews)
A classic hotel option with mountain-style comfort and services that suit longer stays. Good for travellers who want hotel facilities, breakfast on-site, and easy access with parking. Best for couples, families, and multi-day bases.
Key facilities: Free WiFi, private parking, bar, garden, breakfast.
Why it stands out: The “safe-bet” hotel in Scanno—strong rating with a large review count and full-service convenience.
Stay in Villalago (quiet base)
Best for:
a calmer vibe
travellers who want nature first
couples who want fewer crowds
Look for:
parking
views
an easy drive to Scanno and nearby stops
Best Places to Stay in Villalago
- 🔍Borgo dei cervi B&B
Review score & reviews: 9.5 (78 reviews)
A small, highly-rated B&B with a cosy mountain-village feel, known for comfort and a calm atmosphere. Rooms are often described with features like air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies with mountain views, and there’s a garden for downtime. Best for couples, nature lovers, and travellers who want a quiet base near lakes and trails.
Neighborhood/landmark: Villalago (good base for Lago di San Domenico and day trips toward Scanno).
Key facilities: Garden, air-conditioning, parking, Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: One of the top-reviewed stays around Villalago, combining small-place charm with standout guest satisfaction. - 🔍B&B I Laghetti
Review score & reviews: 9.5 (20 reviews)
A quiet B&B that suits travellers looking for simple comfort and a nature-first base. Expect an easy, no-fuss stay with mountain-vibe surroundings and practical basics for short breaks. Best for couples and slow travellers doing lake walks and day trips.
Neighborhood/landmark: Villalago (easy access to the lakes area).
Key facilities: Wi-Fi, terrace.
Why it stands out: A small-review-count gem with an exceptional score—great if you like quieter, less “hotel-ish” stays. - 🔍B&B Casa Anaceta
Review score & reviews: 9.3 (138 reviews)
A well-reviewed B&B that fits travellers who want a reliable, comfortable base for the lakes and nearby nature spots. It’s a good pick for couples and road-trippers exploring the Abruzzo interior, with the kind of steady comfort that works for multi-night stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Villalago.
Key facilities: Wi-Fi, parking, balcony.
Why it stands out: High score plus a solid review count—one of the safest “book it and relax” picks in tiny Villalago. - 🔍B&B L’antico borgo
Review score & reviews: 9.1 (115 reviews)
A charming “old village” style B&B that suits travellers who want traditional atmosphere with modern basics. It’s ideal if you plan to spend days out at lakes, viewpoints, and scenic drives, then return to a quiet village base. Best for couples and travellers who value character.
Neighborhood/landmark: Villalago (historic village setting).
Key facilities: Wi-Fi, terrace, on-site parking.
Why it stands out: Strong reviews for a classic Abruzzo village vibe while still covering the essentials. - 🔍B&B La Tana Dell’orso
Review score & reviews: 8.9 (143 reviews)
A practical Villalago B&B often chosen for good value and solid reviews. It works well as a simple base if you want to sleep in the village but spend most of your time exploring lakes, trails, and nearby drives. Best for couples and budget-minded travellers who still want good standards.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central Villalago location.
Key facilities: Wi-Fi, terrace, garden.
Why it stands out: Great value with lots of reviews—ideal if you want certainty without boutique prices.
Practical tips: getting there, parking, timing, and what to pack
How to get to Lago di Scanno
Most travellers arrive by car. If you want to use public transport, the most common approach is:
Train to Sulmona
Regional bus onward to Scanno / Anversa degli Abruzzi (timetables can change)
If you go this route, check the official TUA Abruzzo schedules close to your travel date.
Parking (lake, trail, and town)
Parking systems can be seasonal. A large car park near the lake is often used by visitors.
To make it easier:
Arrive early in summer and on weekends.
Avoid tight schedules around lunchtime.
Keep coins or a card ready for pay parking.
Best time of day for photos
Morning light can be crisp and quiet.
Late afternoon often gives softer tones.
Sunset can be beautiful from the lake shore.
What to pack
Your comfort depends on small items. Bring:
walking shoes with grip
water and a snack
sun protection
a light layer for changing temperatures
a small towel in summer
Accessibility notes
Some paths are flat. Others are uneven or steep.
If you need step-free routes:
focus on easy lakeside sections
keep the viewpoint optional
plan extra time for parking and short walks
Simple safety reminders
Stay on marked trails.
Watch kids near edges and viewpoints.
In colder months, check road conditions before you drive.
FAQs
Is Lago di Scanno worth visiting? Yes, especially if you like viewpoints and easy nature walks. It is one of the most photogenic stops in Abruzzo. It also pairs well with Scanno village.
How do you see the heart-shaped view of Lago di Scanno? Most visitors use the Sentiero del Cuore trail. You can usually start from Scanno or from the lake. Go early or late for the best light.
How hard is the Sentiero del Cuore? Expect a steady uphill walk. Many travellers manage it at a normal pace. Wear shoes with grip and take your time.
How long does it take to reach the viewpoint? For many visitors, it takes around 1 hour. Time depends on your start point and breaks. Plan extra time for photos at the top.
Can you walk around Lago di Scanno? Yes, there are lakeside walking routes. A popular loop is around 4–5 km. Surfaces vary between paths and road sections.
Can you swim in Lago di Scanno? Swimming is common in warm months. Rules and conditions can vary. Always follow local signs and use common-sense safety.
Are there “beach” areas at the lake? Yes, you can find spots where people sunbathe and relax. Some areas may be more organised in summer. Expect pebbly shores rather than sand.
Is Lago di Scanno good for families with kids? Yes, if you keep the plan simple. Do the viewpoint early, then focus on easy lake time. Bring snacks, water, and spare clothes.
Should you stay in Scanno or Villalago? Scanno is best for atmosphere and dining. Villalago is quieter and feels more local. Choose based on your preferred pace.
Can you visit Lago di Scanno without a car? It can be possible via train and bus connections. The most common hub is Sulmona. Check timetables close to your travel date.
What else should you see near Lago di Scanno? Good add-ons include the WWF Oasis in the Gole del Sagittario. Another classic stop is Lago di San Domenico with the hermitage. These pair well for a full-day loop.
When is the best time to visit Lago di Scanno? Late spring and early autumn are comfortable for walking. Summer is lively but busier. Winter can be atmospheric, with changing road conditions.
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
