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About this place
Laghetto in Lema is a small bathing lake in the municipality of Astano, in the Swiss canton of Ticino. Locals call it the Laghetto di Astano. It is a favourite family outing in the Malcantone region, close to Monte Lema and the Italian border.
What is there to see?
Greenery surrounds the water, and a little beach runs along the shore. A buvette serves drinks and ice cream, so you can stay all day without packing supplies. The spot suits all ages, from toddlers to grandparents.
Can you swim and fish?
Swimming is free but unsupervised: there is no lifeguard, and visitors swim at their own risk. Sport fishing is allowed and rods can be rented on site. In summer, fishing runs from 9 to 11 am and from 6 to 8 pm, and you pay for the catch by weight. Both swimming and fishing end 30 minutes before closing.
When should you visit?
The lake is open from March to October and closed in winter. Bad weather can cancel opening, so on an uncertain day check laghettodiastano.ch or call +41 91 600 03 44. Warm summer months are best for a swim.
How do you get there?
The address is Via al Laghetto 1, 6999 Astano. Drivers will find parking nearby. By public transport, ride to the Astano, Paese stop and walk the rest. The lake sits in the Malcantone valley, west of Lugano towards the Italian frontier.
Where can you stay?
Camping Al Laghetto, a family campsite with a Lema address, sits right beside the lake. Its season runs roughly from early April to mid-October; confirm the dates for your year with the operator.
House rules
Dogs must stay on a leash and are only allowed near the buvette. Bringing your own picnic is not permitted, so eat at the on-site buvette.
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to the lake paid? Ticino Tourism describes swimming as free. You pay extra for fishing gear rental and for the fish you catch.
Is there a lifeguard? No. Bathing is at your own risk.
Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a leash, but only around the buvette area.
May I have my own picnic? No, picnics are not allowed on the lake grounds.
Can I arrive by bus? Yes, get off at Astano, Paese and walk a short distance.
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