Isola Santa: Lake, History and Hiking Trails

Isola Santa brings together an artificial lake, archaeological and historical features, and a variety of trails. If you’re looking for a hotel, you can first consider what you want your stay to focus on: the lakeside scenery, a walk or hikes? The area’s history also offers a distinct point of interest.

Lake and Dam

The lake at Isola Santa is artificial. It was created when the Torrente Turrite Secca was dammed; the dam was built in 1948–49. The lake is therefore also connected with the history of hydropower. The hydroelectric dam built in 1949 flooded the remains of the old Mulino Mosceta. The lake’s creation thus brings together a human-made waterscape and the history of the old mill. To understand the area’s different points of interest, you can think of the dam in terms of both the period when the lake was created and the flooded mill remains.

Archaeological Traces and San Jacopo

The church of San Jacopo is mentioned in 1260 and has since been deconsecrated. Archaeological excavations in Isola Santa also uncovered an open-air settlement. It was inhabited during the late Palaeolithic and subsequently during the Mesolithic. These two historical references are separated by a long span of time: the settlement points to very early habitation, while the church’s mention offers a later point of reference. If you’re interested in the area’s history, Isola Santa can be explored not only through its lakeside scenery but also through the long span of its historical connections.

Walks, Hiking Trails and Fishing

The trails offer different ways to experience the landscape. An easy walking path runs along the right bank of the lake and leads to Pollaccia. Pollaccia is one of the major springs in the Apuan Alps area. There are also hiking trails from Isola Santa to Monte Corchia. The walking path and hiking trails are two different options to consider when planning; check local trail conditions before setting out.

Fishing is another activity in the area: Isola Santa has a specially regulated fishing zone, used by many anglers to catch brown trout. Check the applicable regulations before fishing. This way, the distinction between a walk by the lake, a hike to Monte Corchia and fishing remains a concrete part of your trip planning, rather than being reduced to a single type of stay.

Getting There and Finding a Hotel

Isola Santa is accessible by car, followed by a short walk. Public transport is also an option: first take the train to Castelnuovo Garfagnana, then bus E36 to Isola Santa. Check the current timetable before travelling, as routes and journey times may change.

This information can help you decide what to focus on during your trip; choose specific hotel amenities based on each property’s offer. That way, you can connect your hotel search with what interests you most about Isola Santa.

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