Best lakes around Sessa Cilento are found within the Cilento National Park, a UNESCO-listed area recognized for its diverse natural landscape. This region features mountainous terrain, rivers, and a significant coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea. While large natural lakes are not a primary feature, the area is characterized by the Alento River and its dam, which create notable water bodies. The park offers a variety of natural attractions, including river oases and viewpoints overlooking these water features.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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The naturalistic oasis develops along the right bank of the watercourse, consisting of lakes of important ecological value, which aims to help safeguard the richness of biodiversity through conservation activities. The integrity of the natural habitat of the Oasis has for years now been an original attraction for families, schools and sportsmen.
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Are available to guests: guided tours, naturalistic excursions on horseback and by bike, with electric cars and buses, educational workshops, 8 rooms for overnight stays, botanical garden, picnic area equipped with barbecue, two bars, football fields and volleyball, area for thematic exhibitions and banqueting, shop with typical products, archery, sailing, hiking trails, birdwatching huts, bike and mountain bike rental, playground and congress center. The restaurant aims at quality gastronomy inspired by the 0 km and typical preparations.
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The Dam and the Alento Lake The dam on the Alento river was designed in the 1980s, but as early as 1932, there were projects, never realized, to build a dam to use the waters of the Alento river for hydroelectric purposes. The dam is located in Pian della Rocca, in the municipality of Prignano Cilento. http://www.parks.it/sic.fiume.alento/pun.php
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The Alento River Oasis Located in the heart of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, within an area SIC (Site of Community Importance) of 3,024 hectares that includes a large part of the Alento River, the Oasi Fiume Alento, is a large natural park that offers a wide range of tourist services. https://www.oasialento.it/it/
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Alento Dam Located in the heart of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, the Alento River Oasis is born downstream of the Alento Dam, an artificial lake of about 1.7 square kilometers. The naturalistic oasis
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Around Sessa Cilento, you'll primarily find water bodies associated with the Alento River system, including artificial lakes formed by the Alento Dam and river oases. While large natural lakes are not a dominant feature, the region is part of the Cilento National Park, offering diverse aquatic environments.
Yes, the Alento River Oasis is a significant natural monument. It consists of lakes with important ecological value, dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity through conservation activities. It's a large natural park offering various tourist services.
Near the Alento Dam, you can visit the Partially Submerged Ruin in Alento Dam Reservoir, an old building that becomes visible during periods of lower water levels. There's also a Panoramic View of Alento Dam, offering expansive vistas of the artificial lake and its surroundings.
Yes, you can find a View of Lago di Santa Maria di Castellabate from Sentiero 700. This viewpoint offers an enchanting perspective of the Cilento coast and what is referred to as the 'Lake area' of Santa Maria di Castellabate, known for its crystalline sea.
Absolutely. Both the Alento River Oasis and the Lake of the Alento Dam are considered family-friendly. The Alento River Oasis, in particular, offers guided tours, educational workshops, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it ideal for visitors of all ages.
The region around Sessa Cilento, including the areas near its lakes, offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the Monte Stella Loop or the Pietra del Mulacchio megalith trail. Cycling and gravel biking routes are also popular, with options like the Ring tour of Monte Stella. For more details, explore the hiking, cycling, and gravel biking guides for Sessa Cilento.
Yes, the area around the Alento Dam Lake, within the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park, offers hiking opportunities. The Alento River Oasis, located downstream of the dam, provides hiking trails and naturalistic excursions. You can find various routes in the broader hiking guide for Sessa Cilento.
The Cilento region generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) are often ideal, offering pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty without the peak summer heat. Summer can be warm, but also perfect for enjoying coastal areas if you extend your visit beyond the lakes.
The Alento River Oasis is well-equipped, offering two bars and a restaurant focused on local, 0 km gastronomy. It also has picnic areas, making it convenient for visitors looking for refreshments or a meal during their visit.
While the Alento River Oasis and Dam Lake are primarily for ecological conservation and viewing, the broader Cilento region is renowned for its pristine coastline. For swimming, visitors often head to the beautiful beaches and coves of the Cilento National Park, particularly around areas like Palinuro and Marina di Camerota, which offer crystal-clear waters.
The Alento River Oasis is a protected area with significant ecological value, aiming to safeguard biodiversity. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, and its integrity as a natural habitat means you can observe various local flora and fauna in their natural environment.
The Cilento National Park, where the lakes are located, generally welcomes dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Specific rules for the Alento River Oasis should be checked directly with their management, but many outdoor areas in the park are suitable for walks with your dog.


Still not found your perfect lake around Sessa Cilento? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.