Lakes · Sardegna

Sardinia is much better known for its beaches than its lakes, but its inland reservoirs can be surprisingly beautiful, especially when surrounded by mountains. Most are artificial; Lake Baratz is the island’s best-known natural lake.

🏞️ The most beautiful lakes in Sardinia

1. Lago di Baratz - best overall

   • Near Alghero and Porto Ferro
   • Sardinia's only large natural freshwater lake (with some newer classification nuance around tiny Lake Forru).
   • Particularly beautiful because forest, dunes and lake are all together; the dunes separate it from Porto Ferro beach.
   • Great for walking, birdwatching and a quiet escape from the coast.
   • My pick if you want somewhere genuinely distinctive.

2. Lake Liscia - best for dramatic scenery

   • In Gallura, northeast Sardinia.
   • Rolling granite landscapes, Mediterranean vegetation and striking blue water make it especially photogenic.
   • A good choice if you're exploring the Costa Smeralda/Gallura area.

3. Lago di Gusana - best mountain-lake atmosphere

   • Near Gavoi, in the heart of Barbagia.
   • Deep blue water surrounded by oak-covered hills and Mediterranean scrub.
   • The setting between the Barbagia mountains gives it a much more alpine feel than the coastal Sardinia you may have in mind. Canoeing, horseback riding and fishing are popular here.

4. Lago del Flumendosa - most spectacular mountain scenery

   • In central/eastern Sardinia around Sarcidano and Barbagia di Seulo.
   • Long, narrow blue water surrounded by mountains and rocky outcrops.
   • Sardegna Turismo describes it as particularly suited to boating, canoeing and enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
   • Probably the most dramatic-looking lake on this list.

5. Lago Omodeo - best for vast, wild landscapes

   • One of Sardinia's largest reservoirs, created by damming the Tirso.
   • Less "postcard pretty" than Baratz or Flumendosa, but impressive if you like huge open landscapes, hills and solitude.

My ranking for a first trip

One important caveat: these aren't generally swimming destinations like Sardinia's famous beaches, and many are reservoirs with restrictions around water access.

If you're planning a road trip around Sardinia, I can also give you the 5 lakes that are actually worth detouring to, with the best viewpoints and nearby towns/beaches.

The most beautiful lakes in Sardinia include Lake Coghinas, Lago di Mulargia, Stagno di Cala Brandinchi, Stagno Biderrosa, Piscine Naturali di Bau Mela, and Laguna di Nora. Each offers a different mix of scenery, wildlife, and cultural charm.

🌊 Major Lakes & Lagoons of Sardinia

✨ Key Considerations

• Nature & Wildlife: Stagno di Cala Brandinchi and Biderrosa are excellent for birdwatching and photography.
• Adventure & Swimming: Bau Mela’s natural pools are perfect for summer dips and hikes.
• Cultural Charm: Laguna di Nora combines archaeology with lagoon scenery.
• Tranquility: Lake Coghinas and Lago di Mulargia are less touristy, offering quiet retreats.

⚠️ Trade-offs & Tips

• Accessibility: Lago di Mulargia and Bau Mela require a car and some walking; Nora is easily accessible from Cagliari.
• Seasonality: Summer brings crowds to Cala Brandinchi; for solitude, visit Coghinas or Mulargia.
• Costs: Most lakes are free to access, but guided tours (like at Nora) may have fees.
• Wildlife Protection: Some lagoons are part of reserves—respect local rules to protect habitats.

👉 If you want a balanced itinerary, I’d suggest:

• Laguna di Nora for culture,
• Piscine Naturali di Bau Mela for swimming and hiking,
• Lake Coghinas for peaceful landscapes.

Would you like me to design a 2–3 day Sardinia itinerary that combines these lakes with nearby beaches and villages?

While Sardinia is world-renowned for its emerald coastline and pristine beaches, its interior is home to highly underrated, dramatic bodies of water. Lago di Baratzis Sardinia's only natural freshwater lake, while its remaining stunning lakes are majestic artificial reservoirs framed by rugged mountains, ancient holm oak forests, and prehistoric Nuragic ruins.

A curated guide highlights the most beautiful lakes on the island and what makes each special:

The Natural Gem

Located in the northwest, this peaceful basin was formed over 10,000 years ago by shifting sand dunes. Surrounded by a lush pine and eucalyptus forest, it is a prime spot for birdwatching and hiking. A scenic 3-kilometer dirt path directly connects the lake's marshy banks to the stunning, wild beach of Porto Ferro.

Dramatic Mountain Reservoirs

Nestled in the shadow of the spectacular Supramonte mountain range, this lake is widely considered one of the most visually striking on the island. It is an absolute paradise for kayaking and canoeing, allowing you to paddle right through deep canyons where the water reflects the white limestone cliffs.

Tucked deep in the mountainous heart of Barbagia, Gusana is surrounded by dense forests of oak and cork trees. It looks and feels like an alpine lake. It is highly popular for trekking, horseback riding, and escaping the intense summer heat of the coast.

Spanning more than 20 kilometers in length, this massive body of water was once the largest reservoir in Europe. Framed by dramatic basalt plateaus, the area is highly atmospheric and heavily dotted with nuraghi—prehistoric stone towers unique to Sardinia.

Scenic Spots with Unique Attractions

Situated in the northeast near the Costa Smeralda hinterland, this reservoir is famous for its undulating, bright-green landscapes. A main highlight on its shores is visiting the Olivastri Millenari—ancient, knotted olive trees that are thousands of years old.

A small but exceptionally scenic reservoir nestled in a rocky gorge. Its defining, postcard-perfect feature is a tiny island right in the center of the lake, which holds a historic small church guarded by the placid waters. It is a fantastic spot for a quiet afternoon of kayaking or a family picnic.

If you are mapping out an itinerary, tell me:

Which part of Sardinia you are planning to base yourself in?

Whether you prefer active water sports (like kayaking) or just scenic walks and views ?

I can help pinpoint the closest and most rewarding lake for your trip!

Sardinia’s lakes are mostly artificial reservoirs (created for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and water supply), but many are strikingly beautiful, set amid mountains, Mediterranean scrub, forests, and rugged landscapes. The island has only one true natural freshwater lake of significant size.

Here are the most frequently praised and scenic ones:

1. Lago di Baratz (the only natural freshwater lake)

Located in the northwest near Argentiera (about 20–30 km from Alghero/Sassari), this is Sardinia’s sole large natural freshwater lake. It formed when sand dunes blocked a valley.
It’s nestled in a quiet valley surrounded by pine and holm oak woods, Mediterranean macchia, and dunes, with rich birdlife and flora. A circular path (roughly 3–7 km) runs around it and connects to the lovely Spiaggia di Porto Ferro beach. Ideal for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and picnics (note: the shores can be marshy and swimming is not typically recommended).

2. Lago Omodeo (largest lake)

In central Sardinia (Oristano province area), this artificial reservoir stretches about 20 km and covers roughly 29 km². Created in the 1920s by damming the Tirso River (the original dam was later replaced), it was once among Europe’s largest artificial lakes.
It offers dramatic views of basalt plateaus and rocky terrain, boat trips, canoeing, and a sense of an inland sea. Historical interest includes a relocated village (Zuri) and a submerged petrified forest that can sometimes be visible at low water. Great for scenic drives and water activities.

3. Lago Coghinas

Northern Sardinia (between Oschiri and Tula, near Monte Limbara), the second-largest lake. Formed in the 1920s by damming the Coghinas River.
Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, holm oak and cork oak woods, and granite formations, it supports a rich ecosystem of birds and aquatic life. Popular for trails, birdwatching, sailing, and relaxed countryside exploration.

4. Lago di Gusana

In the heart of Barbagia near Gavoi (Nuoro province), an artificial lake created in the late 1950s–early 1960s.
Deep blue waters set among hills covered in downy oaks and macchia, with a peaceful, mountainous atmosphere. Excellent for canoeing/kayaking, recreational fishing, horseback riding through the woods, and lakeside walks or picnics. The charming village of Gavoi is nearby.

5. Lago Mulargia

Central-southern Sardinia (shared by Orroli, Goni, Nurri, and Siurgus Donigala), nestled between Monte Su Rei and Monte Moretta. Built in the 1950s and fed partly via a tunnel from the Flumendosa system.
Features jagged shores, small islets, and lush hillsides sloping to the water (depths up to ~80 m). Standout for boat trips on a distinctive Mississippi-style paddle steamer, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, and proximity to important archaeological sites like the Nuraghe Arrubiu. A scenic oasis with good wildlife (herons, ducks, turtles, etc.).

6. Lago Cedrino

Eastern-central Sardinia near Dorgali (close to the Supramonte and Oliena area). Created by damming the Cedrino River.
Dramatic setting with limestone and basaltic walls, canyons, and inlets. Highly recommended for kayaking or boat trips that reach spots like the Grotta di Su Guano and the old church of San Pantaleo (accessible only by water). Peaceful yet scenic, with opportunities for birdwatching and combining with nearby mountain or coastal explorations.

Quick tips

• These inland lakes offer a wonderful contrast to Sardinia’s world-famous beaches and are generally quieter.
• Best for nature walks, birdwatching, water sports (canoeing, kayaking, fishing—check local regulations), boat trips, and photography.
• Access is usually by car; some have trails, picnic areas, or simple facilities.
• Coastal wetlands/lagoons (e.g., Molentargius–Saline near Cagliari, famous for flamingos) are also beautiful but are typically classified as ponds/stagni rather than classic lakes.

If you’re planning a specific itinerary (north, center, or combined with beaches/hiking), let me know for more tailored recommendations!

Lake Baratz (the island’s only natural freshwater lake) is commonly cited as the top beauty spot in Sardinia. Other highly regarded lakes include the artificial reservoirs around Lake Omodeo and Lago di Coghinas, plus notable wetlands like the Stagno Notteri and Molentargius–Saline in the Cagliari area.