Lago dell'Accesa
Just 6 km south of Massa Marittima on the SP49, Lago dell'Accesa is a startlingly blue karst lake ringed by oak woodland and the excavated remains of an Etruscan village — and on a summer weekday you may have it almost entirely to yourself. The water is spring-fed, crystal-clear and warm enough to swim in from June to September.
Swimming & Nature
The lake sits in a natural limestone basin and is fed by underground springs that keep it exceptionally clear; visibility underwater can exceed 5 metres, making it a favourite with snorkellers despite its modest size.
A shaded footpath circumnavigates the lake in about 45 minutes, passing reed beds where kingfishers hunt and stands of ancient cork oak whose bark has been harvested for centuries — you can spot the characteristic red-orange exposed trunks throughout the walk.
The Etruscan Settlement
On the northeastern shore, the Museo Civico Archeologico in Massa Marittima displays finds from the Etruscan village of Lago dell'Accesa, which flourished between the 8th and 5th centuries BC; the excavated foundations are visible on-site and freely accessible.
The combination of Bronze Age archaeology and a swimmable lake in the same afternoon is the kind of accidental itinerary that makes Tuscany so endlessly rewarding.
Getting There & Practicalities
Drive south from Massa Marittima on the SP49 toward Prata; the signed turn-off for the lake appears after about 5 km. There is a small free car park at the end of the access road.
A basic bar-kiosk operates in summer near the main beach area selling drinks and panini; otherwise bring your own supplies as facilities are minimal — which is precisely why the place feels so unspoiled.
More of Massa Marittima
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Massa Marittima →
