Trip to Lake Acero: an oasis of peace in Calabria

The heart of the Calabrian Preserre hides a treasure to be discovered with the whole family: Lake Acero, in the municipality of San Vito sullo Ionio, in the province of Catanzaro, is an oasis of peace and well-being surrounded by nature.

A small artificial lake, Lake Acero, located at 850 metres above sea level, offers a wonderful view of the surrounding woods and the opportunity to explore them on an unforgettable hike, a stop on the "Kalabria Coast to Coast" and Italia CAI Trail.

Ready for a trip to Lake Acero in Calabria?

Surrounded by conifers and deciduous trees, Lake Acero offers hikers and those who want to spend a day in nature an oasis of fresh air and tranquillity. Lake Acero, in San Vito sullo Ionio, is a meeting point for the entire Preserre community, which, since the 1980s when this small lake was created, has considered it a reference point for Sunday outings. This delightful teardrop-shaped basin, with waters reflecting the emerald green of the surrounding woods, is one of the unmissable stops on the "Kalabria Coast to Coast" trail, one of many mapped itineraries that cross the region from the Ionian coast to the Tyrrhenian coast, with Lake Acero at its centre.

The pleasant microclimate in all seasons and the presence of a great biodiversity of flora and fauna make Lake Acero a perfect destination for nature lovers, but also for families and groups of friends who simply want to get away from their weekly routine and spend a weekend among the Calabrian lakes in absolute tranquillity.

Supporting this enchanting green oasis is the Lake Acero picnic area, where, among tables, fresh water springs and grills for cooking food, you can organise memorable picnics with friends and family for a day of conviviality in true Calabrian style! There are countless paths and gems to discover with a simple walk around Lake Acero, after touring its shores rich in fauna and fragrant shrubs.

Among the excursions around Lake Acero, one of the most recommended is undoubtedly the one that leads to Mount Coppari, along a circular route that winds through coniferous trees, reaching the evocative “Pietra delle Fate” (in the nearby municipality of Monterosso Calabro, VV). As its name suggests, this rock is shrouded in legends and magical stories, making it one of the most popular and visited attractions in the area. Usually, the stories told about mountain rocks have a common theme, involving hidden treasures, mysterious beings and the spoils of ancient bandits.