8 km from Ischitella is lake Varano. It is the largest lake in southern Italy covering 25 square miles.

Its square shape is separated from the sea by a 6 mile barrier of sand.

The seaward side of this barrier is covered in woods, in which grows pine, eucalyptus and lentisk trees.

The lake is joined to the sea by two navigable canals, the Foce Varano and Foce Capoiale.

It is famous for eels, anguilla vulgaris, which can be found in plentiful supply here.