There is good reason why a laid-back summer vacation is often referred to as the “sun and sea” escape. Beaches and coastlines are common elements of our trip for relaxation.
Lakes can provide the same combination of fine water and downtime, but they are rarely foretold as well. Even if they exist, knowledge about them tends to be limited to the largest and most famous examples: Lake Constance here, Lake Garda there.
Still, Europe blooms with the wonderful water features that extend beyond the sacred territories of the Swiss Alps and Northern Italy. The next 10 examples are little known across borders, but each is spectacular, whether the next vacation is an active hiking or cycling effort or a simple exercise of sitting still. Can provide a view …
The best lake to visit in Europe in 2022
Lake Benern, Sweden
Much has been said about Scandinavia’s vastness, with the largest lake in Western Europe in the region, but the 2,180-square-mile giant in question is little known across the Swedish border. Vänern is an ideal place to spend a quiet summer time, with a cocoon on the water’s hut, for a country blessed with forested paths and laid-back tranquility. Easy access from “civilization” – the second city, Gothenburg, is 55 miles south – somehow only amplifies its mystery.