A Trip To Castel Gandolfo

Castel Gandolfo is a relaxing day trip from Rome. One of the town's most attractive features is its position near Lake Albano, a volcanic crater lake at the foot of Monte Cavo.

What's more, Castel Gandolfo is the Pope's summer residency. The Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo has been opened to the public for the first time. Since the Pope chose it, Castel Gandolfo is certainly a heavenly place to get some tranquility.

According to the website of the Vatican State, "The Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo comprise about 55 hectares (11 more than Vatican City) of which 30 make up a garden while 25 are used for farming. The latter is carried out with full regard for the aesthetics proper to countryside gardening." The gardens of the Papal Place are delightful and perfect for families.

After a visit to the Papal Palace and strolling around the adorable streets of Castel Gandolfo, do not forget to try the delicacy of the town: porchetta which is slow roasted pork with herbs. It is often served in a sandwich.

In the afternoon, if you have a car, you can drive all the way down to the shores of Lake Albano. In the summer, locals like swimming in the lake. The sands of the lake are black and sparkling because they come from a volcano.