From Lake Bilancino to Parco del Renai: here are all the best places to cool off just a stone’s throw from the city
In the summer heat, few people can resist the temptation of a dip in the pool or a day by the sea (just over an hour’s drive from Florence). However, there are other interesting possibilities for enjoying a swim in a lake or a river, without giving up the comfort of a sun lounger and a beach umbrella.
Lake Bilancinois a vast 5 km2 body of water, just a few minutes from the Barberino di Mugello toll booth on the A1 motorway (about 25 km from Florence), in the heart of the Mugello region.
On its shores, there is a well-equipped beach facility, where you can also enjoy sports activities like canoeing, windsurfing, sailing, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking and mountain biking.
We recommend wearing rubber-soled shoes, as the beaches are pebbly.
Located about 10 km southeast of Florence, near Signa, the Parco dei Renai can also be reached by bike via the unpaved cycle path that winds along the Arno River from the Cascine Park in Florence .
You can relax by the pool or choose the fine sandy beach, equipped for swimming and complete with beach umbrellas, deckchairs and sun loungers. You can go free climbing (on a wall approximately 8 meters high on two sides), play beach volleyball and 5v5 soccer. There is a sailing school at Area 1.
Admission to the park is free.
Santerno River
The Santerno River in Firenzuola - Credit:
Revol Web
If you prefer rivers over lakes and aren’t interested in beach facilities, you could travel a few kilometers further, to the Santerno River in the municipality of Firenzuola, about 60 km north of Florence.
The Santerno River originates near the Futa Pass. On the stretch that flows from Firenzuola alongside the Via Montanara towards Imola - past the town of San Pellegrino - you’ll find natural pools, waterfalls and smooth white rocks.
The stretch near the Parish Church of Camaggiore is particularly picturesque, featuring a charming stone bridge and, a short distance away, the stunning Moranduccio Waterfall.
