Lago di Boccafornace Loop

The Lago di Boccafornace loop: the route

The trail starts from the historic center of Pievebovigliana, at the playground in piazza Vittorio Veneto. It continues on a clearly visible, almost flat dirt road, easy even for those who are not fit. Just before the lake there is a short uphill stretch, the only part that takes a little breath.

At the lake, the loop runs between the water and the woods. The right-hand path is accessible to everyone and can be done on foot or by mountain bike. The left-hand one enters the woods, where waterfowl can be watched. Those who want a longer walk can continue toward the Convento and the Beldiletto Castle, on scenic country lanes.

There is little parking space near the lake. For this reason it is best to leave the car in the village or at the start of the trail and reach the water on foot.

Lago di Boccafornace loop: technical data

• Start: Pievebovigliana, in the municipality of Valfornace
• Finish: Pievebovigliana, after the loop around the lake
• Length: about 2 km for the loop around the lake, plus the approach from the village
• Altitude: from a minimum of 448 m to a maximum of 498 m
• Elevation gain: about 50 m between the lowest and highest points
• Difficulty: easy
• Surface: dirt road, mostly flat
• Recommended period: April to October, although the lake can be visited in every season
• Suitable for: families with children, strollers, Nordic walking and mountain biking

Swimming is not allowed in the lake, but other outdoor activities are possible on its shores.

Lago di Boccafornace loop: the map

Near the start of the trail, in the open area with the signs for the lake, a board shows the map of the loop. The route is easy to follow. As for any hike, it is still wise to carry a map or a GPS track and check the weather before setting out.

For other easy walks in the area, see the page on Sibillini Mountains walks. The loop hikes in the Sibillini Mountains, on the other hand, collect the routes that return to their starting point.

Points of interest along the Lago di Boccafornace loop

The first point of interest is the lake, an artificial reservoir of considerable environmental and geological value. Next to the water there is a natural cave, the Risorgenza di Pievebovigliana, which can be visited in dry periods. In winter, by contrast, the karst siphon forms.

Along the route there are three picnic tables. Among the trees there is also a small masonry grill for barbecues, and several panoramic benches invite a stop. There is a food dispenser for the swans.

The area around the lake is suitable for Nordic walking. In the fall the woods show their foliage colors, while spring brings the first blooms.