Top 20 Lakes around Valtournenche

Several lakes in the Valtournenche region are ideal for families. Lago di Lod is easily accessible from Chamois, offering public services and picnic areas. Blue Lake (Lago Blu) is also considered family-friendly with an easy path, though it can be busy. Maen Lake (Lago di Ussin) is another excellent choice, featuring a large picnic area and a flat route along its banks, perfect for all ages.

For stunning views of the Matterhorn, Blue Lake (Lago Blu) is renowned for reflecting the majestic peak on clear days. Riffelsee is another incredible viewpoint, especially at sunrise, offering a clear reflection of the Matterhorn when the water is calm. Grünsee also provides beautiful Matterhorn vistas.

The lakes around Valtournenche are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Glacial Lake – Breuil-Cervinia loop' or 'Goillet Reservoir – Plateau Rosa loop'. For running, trails like the 'Lago di Cignana loop' are available. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like 'Pedalando lungo il lago di Cignana'. You can find more details on these activities and routes in our dedicated guides: Cycling around Valtournenche, Running Trails around Valtournenche, and MTB Trails around Valtournenche.

Yes, Maen Lake (Lago di Ussin) is easily reachable by car from Châtillon and offers a flat, accessible path around its shores. Blue Lake (Lago Blu) is also considered easily accessible, located about a 30-minute walk or short car ride from Breuil-Cervinia. Lago di Lod can be reached by a chairlift from Chamois, making it very convenient.

While many alpine lakes are cold, Grünsee is mentioned as a place where visitors can take a refreshing swim, especially during a bike tour. Always exercise caution and check local conditions before entering any water body.

The Place Moulin Dam is an impressive arch dam, built between 1955 and 1965, forming a significant reservoir. It was once one of the largest dams in the world. It offers panoramic views, an easy walk suitable for families, and serves as an excellent starting point for various treks. Amenities include paid parking and clean, 24-hour bathrooms.

Lago di Cignana is an artificial basin formed by a dam, offering a unique hiking experience. Accessible via path 8 from Perreres, the trail passes the Barmasse refuge before reaching the lake. Visitors can circumnavigate the dam and enjoy truly unique landscapes, with glimpses of a small church and the prominent Cervino (Matterhorn) in the backdrop.

The lakes around Valtournenche are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You can expect century-old larch trees surrounding lakes like Blue Lake, alpine meadows, and stunning mountain backdrops, including the iconic Matterhorn. Many areas are characterized by crystal-clear waters and opportunities for relaxation in nature.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, especially the reflections of the Matterhorn in lakes like Riffelsee and Blue Lake. The opportunities for relaxation, picnics, and refreshing swims (e.g., at Grünsee) are also highly valued. The accessibility of many lakes, even for families and those less accustomed to mountain hikes, is a recurring positive comment.

Yes, Maen Lake (also known as Lake of Ussin) includes a fishing reserve, making it a suitable spot for those interested in fishing.

Lago di Lod can be reached by following path 3, which starts from Chamois. In some sections, you can opt for a carriage road. For those who prefer not to walk, a chairlift from Chamois also provides convenient access.