No, it is not Swan Lake, but the lake of Bracciano (Lago di Bracciano). This lake, the seventh largest in Italy, is a water reservoir for Rome and therefore it is subject to very strict environmental protection regulations. As a result, the water is the purest lake water in Italy, and the fresh fish, served in the abundant lakeside restaurants, are the best freshwater fish anywhere.
The small town is quite charming, but most visitors come for a stroll along the beach and a good meal at one of the many restaurants. Or a quick glance at the ruins of the Orsini castle on the hill.
The Italian equivalent of “have your cake and eat it” is “la botte piena e la moglie ubriaca” (the barrel full and the wife drunk). In the excellent restaurant “La Botte Piena” you might try to achieve this. Good luck.
There are public beaches along the coast (going to your right when facing the lake) and safe sun-bathing areas will be roped off in the summer. Note: You cannot occupy a spot by placing a towel or an umbrella, you have to be there physically yourself.
Avoid week-ends if you can. It gets really crowded and finding a parking slot can be a challenge.
Michael Elmquist homepage 