Top 20 Lakes around Venaus

Visitors frequently enjoy Pian dell'Alpe, a natural monument plateau in the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park, known for walks and picnics. Another popular spot is Lake Malciaussia, an artificial basin at 1,805 meters above sea level, especially favored by cyclists on designated days. Lago Grande, also known as Ferrera Lake, is a small natural lake celebrated for its clear waters and trout fishing.

Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Pian dell'Alpe is ideal for walks and picnics. Lago Grande (Ferrera Lake) is also considered family-friendly, offering picturesque scenery. Additionally, Lake Perrin is described as an enchanting place, ideal for those with children.

The lakes around Venaus offer diverse natural beauty. You'll find high-altitude glacial environments, such as Lago della Vecchia, set against dramatic peaks like Monte Giusalet. Other lakes, like Lago Grande, are nestled in lush greenery and surrounded by imposing mountains like Lamet and Giusalet. White Lake is known for its crystalline waters reflecting the sky, offering a tranquil environment.

The region around Venaus is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, including challenging routes like the 'Verso il Malamot – Fort Malamot loop'. There are also running trails and cycling routes that explore the scenic landscapes, such as the 'Novalesa Monument – Lago Grande loop'.

Yes, many lakes are accessible via hiking trails. Lago della Vecchia, for instance, is a significant destination for hikers, with trails from Venaus often passing by the Rifugio Avanzà. For Lake Perrin, you can reach it with a simple walk from a refuge or from the Piccolo Moncenisio hill. The area around Lago Grande is also crossed by the 'Via Francigena', a historical hiking trail.

The alpine lakes near Venaus are generally best visited during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. High-altitude lakes like Lago della Vecchia are particularly rewarding in summer for hiking. Some areas, like Lake Malciaussia, are very popular and frequented in the summer period.

Parking availability varies by lake. For Lake Malciaussia, parking for motor vehicles is subject to a fee, especially during peak summer months (e.g., €5 on weekdays and €7 on weekends in July and August 2024). For other lakes, access might involve reaching trailheads where parking options could be more limited or informal.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity in some lakes. Lago Grande (Ferrera Lake) is particularly known among fishermen for its abundant trout. Sport fishing has been a characteristic activity there since 1979, though a fee is typically required to fish.

The area around Lago Grande (Ferrera Lake) is rich in history. The road connecting it to Novalesa was historically known as the 'royal road', a crucial connection between France and Novalesa before the Napoleonic road. The nearby village of Moncenisio (formerly Ferrera) has an ecomuseum, 'le terre al confine', which collects evidence of mountaineer life, and is crossed by the 'Via Francigena' hiking trail.

Visitors appreciate the serene and unspoiled natural settings, perfect for peace and immersion in the raw beauty of the Alps. Many enjoy the expansive views during hikes, the tranquility offered by remote locations like Lago della Vecchia, and the picturesque scenery of lakes surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. The crystalline waters of lakes like White Lake are also frequently highlighted as a beautiful spot for rest and relaxation.

Yes, for Lake Malciaussia, the road leading to the lake is reserved for cyclists only on certain days. Specifically, every Thursday from the end of June to the beginning of August, it is closed to motorized vehicles from 11:30 to 15:30, making it an excellent time for cyclists to enjoy the route.

While the high-altitude lakes are more remote, areas like Pian dell'Alpe have amenities such as a Rifugio where you can eat. The nearby village of Moncenisio, close to Lago Grande, is a charming alpine village that may offer some services. For more extensive options, Venaus itself or larger towns in the Susa Valley would provide a wider range of cafes, pubs, and accommodations.