Italian Youth
Welcome to Lago del Bosco!
Being a Lago del Bosco villager isn’t about sitting in a classroom learning grammar and memorizing facts. When you arrive here and walk through “customs,” you will be surrounded by Italian sounds, sights, and flavors and flooded with opportunities to learn and practice new language skills.
First, you’ll choose a new Italian name and exchange your American dollars for euros. Then you’ll find your cabin and settle into your new Italian home. The whole time, our caring, friendly counselors will help you learn the words and phrases you need to say buongiorno (hello) to your new cabin mates, ask them where they’re from, and figure out where to go next.
While you’re at Lago del Bosco, you will be with other kids your own age who also have an interest in making new friends, trying new things, and learning Italian. You will play sports and games, learn how to cook, and explore your artistic side. Your Italian immersion experience will be different from every classroom you’ve ever been in. You will completely change your surroundings and learn by doing.
Location
At Lago del Bosco in Hackensack, Minn. you'll be right next door to the beautiful Chippewa State Forest. Before villagers arrive, our staff transforms the peaceful, traditional summer camp setting by bringing in Italian language signs and authentic Italian décor.
You’ll be living in a comfortable dormitory-style cabin with staff members and about 30 other villagers who are all your same gender and about your age. You’ll have your own bunk for your sleeping bag and pillow, as well as a place to store your clothes and other belongings.
Each of the four dormitories features its own bathroom and shower facilities shared by the villagers and staff living in that dormitory. Please pack wisely as there is limited storage space.
Fast Facts
· Founded: 2003
· Borders: Baby Lake
· Population: 80-130
· Language: Italian
· Currency: Euro
· Time zone: CST (Daylight Savings)
Lago del Bosco offers three choices of Summer Villages experiences for young people:
· One-week overnight exploratory sessions
· Two-week overnight immersion sessions
· Four-week sessions for high school credit
Special program: Helvetia Explorer
When you arrive for a regular session at Lago del Bosco, you can sign up to explore Swiss culture as part of your activities. In addition to Italian, try French and German, and learn about the land of the alphorn and Toblerone! For a more extensive Swiss experience, try our week-long youth or family Helvetia Swiss Week hosted at Waldsee.
Want to know more about Lago del Bosco?
·Visit our Village Page to see pictures of last year's villagers and camp activities.
· Meet our dean
