The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake Place Moulin
4.5
(86)
899
riders
8
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Place Moulin are set within the Valpelline valley, characterized by its alpine landscapes and the prominent artificial lake. The region features glacier-fed waters, surrounded by mountains and larch forests, with the pristine white glaciers of Les Petites and Les Grandes Murailles forming a dramatic backdrop. The elevation of the lake at 1,968 meters above sea level contributes to the fresh mountain air and expansive views. A significant feature is the Place Moulin Dam,…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(4)
46
riders
9.50km
00:55
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
44
riders
24.4km
02:09
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(36)
175
riders
25.8km
03:02
1,110m
1,110m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
105
riders
21.0km
02:31
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Il Prarayer is an alpine plateau located at about 2000 meters above sea level, at the end of the Place-Moulin lake. It is reached by a simple path that runs along the lake, almost always flat. The environment is open, with meadows, small streams, and some alpine pasture buildings. The landscape is surrounded by high peaks and glacial environments, clearly visible in the background. The Rifugio Prarayer is located here, used as a base for longer excursions. The area is suitable for a quiet break after the walk along the lake. Itineraries to side valleys and high-altitude routes start from here. Despite the altitude, the setting remains accessible and not very demanding.
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The Place Moulin dam is a majestic arch-gravity dam, designed to make the most of the narrow and incised conformation of the valley. Its concrete structure develops with a slight curvature, which allows the water's thrust to be transferred to the lateral rock walls, reducing direct pressure on the base and ensuring high stability. With a height of approximately 155 meters and a crest length of over 600 meters, it represents one of the most imposing hydraulic works in the Italian Alps. The artificial basin formed upstream reaches a capacity of over 100 million cubic meters of water, mainly fed by the Buthier stream and glacial meltwater. The plant is an integral part of a hydroelectric system: the accumulated water is conveyed through penstocks to power plants located downstream, where the head is transformed into energy. The management of levels is regulated by surface and bottom outlets, designed to control both floods and ordinary releases.
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The Marmitta dei Giganti in Bionaz is a striking cavity carved into the rock that tells of the power of the alpine glaciers. It formed during the last ice age, when meltwaters, laden with sand and stones, channeled into powerful vortices: the debris, rotating ceaselessly, smoothed the rock to create this deep, almost perfectly shaped "pot". Alongside the scientific explanation, the charm of legend also survives: it is said that giants dug these cavities, using them as containers or leaving their superhuman strength imprinted on them. It is precisely this intertwining of nature and imagination that makes the place so fascinating.
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Very peaceful walk around the lake and majestic lake.
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You can also stay for just a few hours: the hour costs 50 cents (as of 2025).
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At the hut, you can enjoy good, traditional dishes at really fair prices. In good weather, you can enjoy the view of the lake from the terrace. If the weather is bad, there's plenty of space inside, too.
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Finding a locomotive with a railway line up there is something special 😄
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Here arrives the "Cime Bianche Laghi" cable car that leaves from the town of Cervinia and begins to wind the fun bike park. You can have fun on the trails in the presence of the Matterhorn and the majestic peaks that keep it company. A truly unique panorama!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Lake Place Moulin?
There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Place Moulin featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy lakeside spins to more challenging alpine loops.
What is the easiest no-traffic touring cycling route around Lake Place Moulin?
The easiest route is the Along Lake Place Moulin tour. This route is approximately 9.5 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed ride along the lake's stunning turquoise waters.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. For a challenging loop that includes the dam and lake, consider the Place Moulin Dam – Place-Moulin Lake loop from Oyace. Other challenging loops include the Glacial Lake – Breuil-Cervinia loop from Singlin Superiore and the Goillet Reservoir – Plateau Rosa loop from Breuil-Cervinia.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic routes?
The terrain varies. The path directly along Lake Place Moulin, such as the Along Lake Place Moulin route, is primarily an unpaved or dirt road, not open to vehicles, offering a relatively flat and comfortable ride. More challenging routes in the wider Valpelline area will feature significant climbs and descents on well-paved surfaces or gravel paths, often reaching higher alpine elevations.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along these routes?
The routes offer breathtaking alpine panoramas, including views of the intense turquoise waters of Lake Place Moulin itself. You'll also see the impressive Place Moulin Dam, one of Europe's highest altitude arch dams. The surrounding landscape features larch forests, streams, and the dramatic glaciers of Les Petites and Les Grandes Murailles. The lakeside path also leads to the historic Prarayer mountain hut.
Is Lake Place Moulin suitable for family-friendly no-traffic cycling?
Yes, the relatively flat and vehicle-free dirt road that flanks Lake Place Moulin, as featured in the Along Lake Place Moulin tour, is an excellent option for families. It provides a safe and scenic environment for cyclists of varying skill levels to enjoy the stunning views.
What is the best time of year to cycle these no-traffic routes?
The best time to cycle around Lake Place Moulin is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the alpine landscape is vibrant. The larch forests are particularly beautiful in autumn. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, the Prarayer mountain hut is located at the far end of the lakeside path, offering a convenient stop for refreshments. In the wider Valpelline valley, you'll find cafes and restaurants in villages like Bionaz, which can be accessed from some of the longer touring routes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lake Place Moulin?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.26 stars from 86 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the quiet and car-free environment of the lakeside path, and the dramatic views of the dam and surrounding glaciers.
Where can I park my car to access the no-traffic cycling routes?
Parking is generally available near the Place Moulin Dam, which serves as a common starting point for many excursions, including the lakeside cycling path. From there, you can easily access the no-traffic routes around the lake.
Are there any routes that offer views of waterfalls or streams?
The alpine landscape surrounding Lake Place Moulin is rich with natural water features. Numerous streams and smaller waterfalls contribute to the natural beauty of the area, especially during spring and early summer when snowmelt is abundant. While no specific route is dedicated solely to waterfalls, you will encounter them as part of the scenic backdrop on many of the tours.
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