The sanctuary is so named because it is situated on the shore of a small lake and is nestled in a magnificent natural setting. The original structure dates from the 16th century and was dedicated to Our Lady of the Visitation. The old church was rebuilt several times, in particular it was enlarged in 1842. Today it houses an inn (telephone 338 839 5737 for opening hours). On the first Sunday of July, the feast of the Madonna del Lago is celebrated with the associated and traditional procession.
The place is equipped with a picnic area. In addition, from here start the paths to Alta Via dei Monti Liguri, Armetta, Dubasso and Galero mountains. Nearby there are numerous rocks, very popular with free climbers. The place is also frequented by paragliders, who have suitable take-off and landing sites nearby.
The legend: It is said that the lake was miraculously and suddenly formed. It is said that a farmer with his oxen preferred to continue working on Sundays even though he disregarded Sunday mass and was punished for it. A mass of water coming down from the sky flooded him and swept him along with the oxen. Precisely because of the miraculous formation of the lake, it was decided to build a sanctuary on this site.