Situated on the western side of Italy about half way down, the lakes of the Lazio area, as it is known, are ringed with picturesque Medieval villages, and are a restful place to stay as an add on to a trip to Rome.
Try a visit to the imposing 15th century, Castello Orsini-Odescalchi, which is near the village of Bracciano itself, to really sum up the atmosphere of old Italy. Or travel to Norchia which is famous for some interesting, 2,500 year old Etruscan cliff tombs, set in a pretty valley well worth the walk to see.
If you are really into nature, take a look at the nature reserve around the smaller lake Vico, which is a place edges with the wonderful volcanic cinder cone of mount Venere, and is a great place for scenery and wild life. The largest of the volcanic lakes is Bolsena, which has a pretty old town which is just full of atmosphere and wonderful picture opportunities. To go with all the wonderful countryside and villages, try some great Italian food, as local goats cheese.