Best lakes around Pettinengo are found within a rich natural landscape, offering several notable lakes in close proximity. The area is characterized by its mountainous terrain and glacial origins, providing diverse natural beauty. These lakes offer opportunities for hiking and experiencing the natural environment of the Biellese region. Visitors can explore various lake types and associated mountain refuges.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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artificial lake once infested with abandoned turtles and now finally reclaimed
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At 2020 meters, Lake Barma (or Balma) is a lake of glacial origin sunken between the Gragliasca peak, Lei Long and Balma d’Oropa on the left, Mont Mars and Monte Rosso on the right, and the Balma d’Oropa hill in front. With 31,320 square meters of extension, it is the largest lake included in the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. On its shores, from the second half of June, rhododendrons, mountain lilies, round cotton grasses, mountain arnica and wild orchids bloom.
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Very modern and comfortable refuge. Equipped with 24h electricity, wi-fi, hot water. The refuge is also a stop for the Oropa Valley walk. The Barma refuge is located at an altitude of 2060 meters in the Mont Mars nature reserve, located between the Biella area and the Lys Valley in the Aosta Valley. The stone structure is built around the roche moutonne in the center of an amphitheater overlooking the lakes of the same name at the foot of the Mont Mars massif (2600 m). The refuge is recently built and has a large bar, two dining rooms, eight rooms, five of which seat 8, two seat 4 and a double with bathroom. The services are shared. The structure is equipped with solar panels for the production of electricity, integrated with a co-generator system. The water is collected from the depths of the lake and treated with a water purifier so as to avoid the use of packaging to be disposed of.
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The Rifugio Lago della Vecchia is located in the Biella Alps, at 1,872 meters above sea level, near the lake of the same name. It offers typical Piedmontese cuisine and the possibility of overnight stays with 22 beds. It opens in the summer season but for more information, visit the website: rifugiolagodellavecchia.it
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waterfalls of the Oropa stream on the path to Mucrone
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recently cleared of an infestation of American tortoises caused by the abandonment of these animals
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pond recently reclaimed from the invasion of dangerous turtles once considered as "home aquarium animals". The abandonment over the years of these reptiles, which in some cases have become enormous, has been a cause of danger for people and animals.
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Recently built refuge surrounded by the Barma lakes, open in the summer and reachable with a not too demanding walk from Pillaz (or from Pian Coumarial) a hamlet of Fontainemore, overcoming a long stretch of road up to Lake Vargno
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The lakes around Pettinengo are primarily of glacial and intermorainic origin, nestled within a rich natural landscape. You'll find a variety of settings, from high-altitude glacial cirque lakes surrounded by majestic peaks to smaller, serene intermorainic lakes with historical significance.
Yes, there are several mountain refuges. The Rifugio della Balma is a modern and comfortable hut located at 2,060 meters above sea level within the Mont Mars Nature Reserve, with two lakes at its foot. Another option is the Lago della Vecchia Hut, situated at 1,872 meters near the lake of the same name, offering typical Piedmontese cuisine and accommodation.
The Barma Lakes, consisting of one small and one large lake, are set in a breathtaking landscape with peaks like Punta Gragliasca, Mont Mars, and Monte Rosso. From June onwards, the shores are vibrant with rhododendrons, mountain lilies, and wild orchids, making it a spectacular display of alpine flora.
The Laghetto del Camino is a small glacial lake rich in frogs and tadpoles. It's in an advanced evolutionary phase, with shallow waters and boulders, and is partially bordered by vegetation, eventually destined to become a peat bog. It offers a serene setting for observing wetland ecosystems and geological formations.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking trails. For example, you can find routes like the 'Lago della Vecchia – Rifugio Lago della Vecchia loop from Piedicavallo' or the 'Lago del Camino – Lago Barma superiore loop from Oropa'. You can explore more options in the Mountain Hikes around Pettinengo guide.
The Rifugio della Balma is well-equipped with 24-hour electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot water, and serves as a stop for the Oropa Valley walk. The Lago della Vecchia Hut offers typical Piedmontese cuisine and accommodation with 22 beds, opening during the summer season.
The summer season is ideal for visiting, especially from June onwards, when the alpine flora like rhododendrons are in bloom around lakes such as the Barma Lakes. Mountain refuges typically open during the summer, providing accommodation and services.
Yes, Lago di Bertignano, located near Viverone, is notable for its historical significance. Archaeological findings of ancient monoxylon dugout canoes from the Neolithic and Bronze Age have been discovered there, some of which are preserved in the Museum of Antiquities in Turin.
Yes, there are various cycling routes in the vicinity. You can find options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Chapel of San Grato – Bottalino Fountain loop from Tollegno' or the 'Panoramica Zegna and Bielmonte Loop'. More details are available in the Cycling around Pettinengo guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Pettinengo guide.
Visitors highly appreciate the stunning natural beauty, the opportunities for hiking, and the serene atmosphere. The komoot community has shared many photos and given numerous upvotes, highlighting the picturesque views and the well-maintained refuges like Rifugio della Balma, which is described as modern and comfortable with breathtaking views.
Yes, the Oropa Stream Waterfall is a small but pretty waterfall located between the sanctuary of Oropa and the Rosazza refuge. The water flows between boulders, creating remarkable plays of colors and reflections, making it a scenic spot.
Lago della Vecchia is steeped in local legends, including one about a young warrior buried in its depths and a maiden who lived by its shores with a bear. These stories add a mystical charm to the tranquil escape offered by the lake.


Still not found your perfect lake around Pettinengo? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.