Top 20 Lakes around Torgnon
Best lakes around Torgnon are found in the Aosta Valley, an alpine region characterized by its natural water bodies and mountain landscapes. Torgnon itself is a village surrounded by pine forests and pastures, offering access to various natural attractions. The area provides opportunities for exploring both natural and artificial lakes, many of which are integrated into hiking itineraries. This region is recognized for its scenic beauty and ecological value.
Best lakes around Torgnon
- The most popular lakes is Place Moulin Dam, a man-made monument that forms a reservoir with an arch dam. This dam is noted for its height and offers a panorama of the surrounding area.
- Another must-see spot is Lago di Lod, a lake easily accessible from Chamois. It is a popular excursion destination, suitable for various visitors due to its ease of access.
- Visitors also love Prarayer Hut, a hut located in the upper Bionaz valley overlooking an artificial lake. The path to the hut follows this lake, offering a scenic route suitable for many activity levels.
- Torgnon is known for its natural mountain lakes, artificial reservoirs, and ecologically significant ponds. These water bodies provide diverse settings for exploration and outdoor activities.
- The lakes around Torgnon are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 270 upvotes and 140 photos shared.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Chamois
Highlight • Settlement
It is included in the Consorzio delle Perle delle Alpi (Consortium of the Pearls of the Alps) for a peculiarity: it is the only village in Italy (on the mainland) without cars. Reaching it is indeed only possible on foot, by bicycle, or by cable car.
The historic mule track with 93 bends, known as "Les Seingles", was once the only connection to Chamois. One used to start from Buisson and only arrive after a few hours of hard walking.
Today, everything is easier, a practical path starts from the hamlet of Corgnolaz in La Magdeleine and after about an hour's easy walk, you reach your destination.
Upon arrival in Chamois, we find the beautiful little square with the church and the town hall, and from here the entire village unfolds with its hamlets. The first thing you perceive upon arrival is the absolute silence, the peace, and the tranquility of a small mountain village without cars and without traffic, which seems suspended in time.
From the square also departs one of the three lifts present in the village. From here, we can indeed take a chairlift to reach Lake Lod (Lago di Lod) in 5 minutes, at 2015 m. A beautiful small lake on whose shores an equipped picnic area has been created; in the surroundings, there are also some restaurants.
We can also reach Lake Lod on foot, from the village, via a path or the convenient dirt road, with a simple walk of about 30-40 minutes. The route is well marked and starts from the village.
From the lake, you can climb up to Punta Falinère and reach the Sanctuary of Clavalité (2530 m) by following path no. 3 and a fairly steep mule track.
Chamois is also a very beautiful destination in winter, when the ski slopes open and the village fills with skiers and snowshoe hikers.
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Lago di Lod
Highlight • Lake
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Place Moulin Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Lago Blu
Highlight • Lake
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Prarayer Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The most popular path to reach the refuge is from the south, via a mule track accessible to anyone, which follows the route along the lake. It's perfect for a relaxing, scenic ride, suitable for all levels. If you're looking for a more technical and fun challenge, there are other access routes that are slightly more challenging but equally rewarding.
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Popular around Torgnon
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful lake with a drinking fountain nearby.
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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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beautiful lake at the arrival of the first chairlift of Chamois
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The legend of Lago Blu says that long ago, where the Blue Lake is today, there was a small house where a family of shepherds lived. One night, a poor traveler came to visit and knocked on their door, seeking food and shelter. The young shepherdess turned him away, but her son could not bear the thought of this selfish act. He tried to give the traveler his own bowl of milk, but his parents did not allow it and gave the man a bowl of dirty water instead. The parents even punished their son for going against their will and sent him out into the forest that very night to collect wood. He managed to collect a lot of wood without being attacked by wild animals, and when he returned home, he was horrified to find that his house was no longer there. A lake had swallowed him and with him his entire family. As the boy grew up and started his own family and village, they were known to be friendly, hospitable people who always welcomed strangers. Source: https://dooid.it/en/the-matterhorns-magnificent-blue-lake-in-aosta-valley/
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The Blue Lake (il Lago Blu), also known as Lake Layet, is located in the Breuil-Cervinia region of the Aosta Valley and lies south of the Matterhorn. It sits at almost 2,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by larches. It is not a large lake, but what makes it so special is its bright color. Supposedly, the deep blue is the merit of both the algae and mineral content, and the clarity comes from the fact that it is constantly fed by freshwater springs. Source: https://dooid.it/en/the-matterhorns-magnificent-blue-lake-in-aosta-valley/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes and water bodies to visit around Torgnon?
Visitors frequently enjoy several notable water bodies. The Lago di Lod is a popular excursion destination, easily accessible from Chamois. Another significant site is the Place Moulin Dam, an impressive arch dam forming a reservoir, known for its panoramic views. Additionally, the artificial lake overlooked by the Prarayer Hut offers a scenic route along its shores.
Are there family-friendly lakes or easy walks suitable for all ages near Torgnon?
Yes, several options cater to families and those seeking easy access. Lago di Lod is highly recommended for its ease of access, even for small children or elderly people, and features public services and picnic tables. The path along the Prarayer Hut's artificial lake is a mule track accessible to anyone, including mothers with prams, offering a relaxing and scenic ride. The Place Moulin Dam also offers an easy walk suitable for the whole family.
What kind of natural features and ecological sites can I explore around Torgnon's lakes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. Lo Ditor Pond in the Chavacour valley is particularly notable for its unique habitats and is recognized as a Site of Community Importance (SIC) due to its ecological value. The area around Champlong also features a mountain lake nestled within a beautiful pine wood, complete with an equipped picnic area and a 'healthy route' for gentle walks.
What hiking opportunities are available around the lakes near Torgnon?
The lakes around Torgnon are integrated into various hiking itineraries. For instance, Lago di Cignana is part of the popular 'Tour des Alpages' hiking itinerary, offering beautiful views and an immersive alpine experience. The path to the Prarayer Hut follows an artificial lake, providing a scenic route. You can find more hiking options, including moderate and difficult trails like the 'Tour des Alpages, Torgnon alpine pasture loop', by exploring the Hiking around Torgnon guide.
Are there cycling or mountain biking routes that incorporate the lakes near Torgnon?
Yes, the region offers several cycling and mountain biking routes that pass by or near lakes. For example, the 'Lo Ditor Pond loop from Mongnod' is a moderate cycling route. Mountain bikers can explore challenging routes like the 'Gorza Alp and Lake – Rifugio Jean Barmasse loop'. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Cycling around Torgnon guide and the MTB Trails around Torgnon guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Torgnon?
The Aosta Valley, where Torgnon is located, is renowned for its alpine lakes, which are generally best visited during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). This period offers pleasant weather for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural scenery. Some higher-altitude lakes, like Lac Sans Fond, are especially accessible in August.
Are there any lakes near Torgnon that offer stunning views of the Matterhorn?
Yes, the region boasts lakes with iconic Matterhorn views. Blue Lake (Lago Blu), located near Breuil-Cervinia, is famous for mirroring the Matterhorn in its crystal-clear waters. While not directly in Torgnon, it's accessible for a day trip and offers a breathtaking photographic opportunity. From Monte Charvaz, which can be reached from Lago di Lod, you can also admire the Matterhorn.
Can I find accommodation or facilities near the lakes around Torgnon?
Yes, some lakes have facilities or nearby huts. Lago di Lod offers public services and tables with barbecue facilities. The Prarayer Hut, overlooking an artificial lake, provides accommodation, a pub, and a restaurant. Similarly, the Rifugio Jean Barmasse is located on the shores of Lake Cignana and offers accommodation, food, and serves as a base for excursions.
Are there any artificial lakes around Torgnon, and what are their features?
Yes, the region features significant artificial lakes. The Place Moulin Dam creates a large reservoir and is notable for its height and panoramic views. The artificial lake overlooked by the Prarayer Hut is formed by the waters of the Buthier stream and offers spectacular scenery. Lake Place-Moulin, another artificial lake created for hydroelectric power, provides a scenic hiking trail with views of majestic mountains and glaciers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Torgnon?
Visitors appreciate the diverse settings for exploration and outdoor activities. Many highlight the stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for trekking and connecting with nature. The ease of access to some lakes, the family-friendly facilities, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape, including glimpses of the Matterhorn, are frequently praised.
Are there any challenging trails or viewpoints near the lakes for experienced hikers?
For more experienced hikers, the Cignana Window offers a vast panorama from the artificial basin below to the surrounding peaks, including the Monte Rosa glacier. From this point, paths branch off towards different destinations, including a shorter but more technical path to Mount Pancherot, or routes to more distant, challenging destinations. The 'Tour des Alpages' is also considered a difficult hiking route.
Is it possible to reach some of the lakes using public transport or chairlifts?
Yes, accessibility varies. Lago di Lod, for example, is easily accessible from Chamois by following path 3 or by taking a chairlift. Verney Lake is also easily accessible from Colle del Piccolo San Bernardo with parking available nearby, making it suitable for all ages.
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