Villetta Barrea sits at the western end of Lake Barrea, the artificial lake created in the 1950s that now forms one of the most photographed stretches of the southern park. The village is small and unpretentious, with a waterfront that makes it pleasant for an evening stroll and a handful of restaurants and rooms to rent.
The lake itself is the draw here. Kayak and pedalo hire is available in summer, and the views across the water to the forested ridges above are best in the early morning when mist sits on the surface. Barrea village, three kilometres east along the shore, is the more atmospheric of the two lakeside settlements and worth the short drive or walk.
Villetta Barrea is also the most convenient base for the Camosciara and Val Fondillo, both reachable within twenty minutes by car. The park information point here can help with current trail access and wildlife news.