Lake San Ruffino is located in the municipality of Amandola, in the Monti Sibillini National Park. It is an artificial lake that was created in 1961 by building an imposing dam, in order to interrupt the course of the Tenna river and to create a reservoir for the accumulation and reserve of water in case of little rainy years.

With the beginning of autumn, until the end of spring, the dam is opened with the water free to flow towards the valley and the lake which, as if by magic, disappears almost as if an underground cavity had opened and the waters had been swallowed. The esplanade then first transforms into a large swamp which slowly dries up to give way to the bed of the river alone, free to continue its course without interruption.

For this reason the lake is also called “Ghost Lake”. A path winds around the lake which can be traveled on foot, on horseback or by mountain bike. Numerous events are organized such as canoe trips and sailing regattas and there are regular possibilities for water sports offred as well. There are two restaurants located near the lake.