There are many ways to explore the splendid Lake Bolsena. This small heavenly spot offers quite a wide opportunity of sports and activities: snorkeling, sailing, canoeing, fishing, water skiing, windsurfing, motor boating but also mountain bike riding, trekking, and horse riding.

The best way to discover Lake Bolsena is to explore it by boat. The lake has two scenic ports at nearly opposite ends: at Bolsena and Capodimonte. You can rent boats at Capodimonte or take a lake excursion on Navigazione Alto Lazio which runs from both Capodimonte and Bolsena.

Perhaps the nicest excursion however, is by (sail) boat from Capodimonte to the two volcanic islands – L’Isola Bisentina and L’Isola Martana. Bisentina is privately owned, so, unless you have the owner’s permission, you should not go on land, but circumnavigating the island delivers spectacular views of the island’s seven chapels as well as soaring volcanic cliffs. Better yet, you can also anchor the boat and swim in turquoise-clear waters. Martana does not offer the charming architectural views of Bisentina, but is also very attractive in a somewhat wilder way.

You can simply rent a boat at Capodimonte and set off sailing on the crystal clear waters but beginning sailors can also take sailing lessons at Scuola Vela Capodimonte which is situated at one end of Capodimonte. The school also offers sailing lessons in the mornings for kids and you can see them skippering their one-kid miniature sailboats when you go by the school. When having returned to Capodimonte, an absolute must is Ristorante Il Pepe Nero. This is by all means a truly hidden gem, located on the beach of Capodimonte, and serving wonderful pasta and fresh fish from the lake.

Scuba diving in the waters of Lake Bolsena is a fascinating experience. It is a must both for an expert and a beginner. You can admire the underwater landscape that recalls at times the moon and at other times the desert, but you can also swim through submerged antique ruins of these fascinating waters unique and rich in history. So even if you are not a scuba diver, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a once in a life time experience.

Bolsena is also known to be one of the best places in Italy for sport fishing. Fishing boats are available for rental. Strict boating regulations prohibit boats of more than a certain length, restrict the number of boats on the lake and allow motorized boats only for certain purposes (such as fishing and summer tourism). The result is an uncrowded and peaceful lake, even during the most popular summer months. Please note that a license is required for fishing

Although Lago Bolsena is a rather small lake, winds do rapidly change. Mornings are often so calm that the lake gleams mirror-like, and is ideal for swimming, motor boating and water skiing. Afternoons, however, the wind usually picks up and windsurfers and sailors can have real fun.

You could also decide to have a canoe tour, tracing the routes of the old inhabitants who, on a wooden pirogue, set out for the fishing. A tour in kayak is a completely different experience because it allows you in a short time and in complete autonomy to reach places quite often inaccessible for other boats, immersing you entirely in the environment in direct contact with nature. Following the coasts of the basin you can reach the archaeological site of Monte Bisenzio, land on lonely shores or you could coast the headland of Capodimonte.
Cycling around the lake is great fun and most of it is quite flat, well within the capabilities of even the most occasional cyclist. You can hire bikes from a shop on the lake side at Bolsena.

If you are a more serious cyclist then there are more challenging rides too. By mountain bike you can have an archaeological tour and go along the natural paths arriving at those places where the Etruscans set their sites. Along your tour you will always be able to appreciate the view of the breathtaking lake.

As you will notice, sports and culture go hand in hand at Lago Bolsena.