Top 20 Lakes around Pontechianale
Best lakes around Pontechianale are found in the Valle Varaita, a region known for its diverse aquatic landscapes and views of Monviso. The area features the artificial Lago di Pontechianale, several alpine lakes like Lago di Fiorenza, and lakes nestled within the Alevè Forest such as Lago Secco and Lago Bagnour. These natural features provide opportunities for various outdoor activities, from easy walks to challenging alpine treks. The region's unique geography and historical elements, like the submerged hamlet in Lago di Pontechianale, make it a notable destination.
Best lakes around Pontechianale
- The most popular lakes is Lake Fiorenza, an alpine lake that offers unique and beautiful frames. It is part of the main lakes in the Po Valley and is a pleasure to hike along, a stone's throw from the source of the Po.
- Another must-see spot is Bagnour Hut and Lake Bagnour, located in the heart of the Alevè forest. Near the refuge, visitors can find two small lakes surrounded by streams, offering a magnificent place for day trips or as a base for multi-day itineraries.
- Visitors also love Castello, a village at the beginning of Lake Pontechianale. The dam, built in the early 1940s, is worth a look, and the lakeside promenade towards the Maddalena hamlet is a beautiful walk.
- Pontechianale is known for artificial lakes like Lago di Pontechianale, high-altitude alpine lakes, and lakes within the extensive Alevè Forest. This variety offers diverse experiences, from water sports and easy lakeside strolls to more challenging hikes in pristine alpine environments.
- The lakes around Pontechianale are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and over 90 photos shared, highlighting their appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Lake Fiorenza
Highlight • Lake
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Bagnour Hut and Lake Bagnour
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The Bagnour refuge is the ideal destination for day trips or as a base for multi-day itineraries such as the Giro del Monviso.
For information: +39 3204260190, +39 0175977135, sherpa.vallevaraita@libero.it.
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Vallanta Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The refuge is open from mid-June to mid-September, during the closing period a spacious winter bivouac is available. In summer, reservations are required to stay overnight.
Find more information on the official website: rifugiovallanta.it/home.asp.
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Castello
Highlight • Settlement
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Monumental Swiss Stone Pine near Lake Bagnour
Highlight • Natural Monument
The 825-hectare wood develops in the territories of the municipalities of Casteldelfino, Pontechianale and Sampeyre at an altitude between 1500-2500 m s.l.m. It is a pure wood dating back to the last glaciation and already mentioned by Virgil and Pliny the Elder, in 2000 the Bosco dell'Alevè was declared a Site of Community Interest (SIC IT1160058 "Gruppo del Monviso and Bosco dell'Alevè" ZSC / SPA).
Source: parcomonviso.eu
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Popular around Pontechianale
Tour di Viso – Four days around the Stone King from Castello
Tour di Viso – Four days around the Stone King from Meire Dacant
Viso Tour from Castello (variant) – Three days around the Stone King
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The STONE KING Route – adventure enduro from High Alps to the Med
Three days around il Re di Pietra ─ Giro di Viso from Castello
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Other adventures around Pontechianale
Tips from the Community
Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Beautiful and famous lake easily reachable from Pian del Re and Regina.
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The Bagnour refuge is located in the heart of the enchanting Alevé forest, the largest pine forest in Italy, at 2,017 meters above sea level. It has twenty beds and twenty-four internal seats, with half or full board service. The refuge is open every day from mid-June to mid-September, from September to June open on weekends and holidays (during the week only by reservation). The Bagnour refuge is the ideal destination for day trips or as a base for multi-day itineraries such as the Giro del Monviso. For information: +39 3204260190, +39 0175977135, sherpa.vallevaraita@libero.it.
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This is a charming little village located halfway up the Colle dell'Agnello, at the foot of Lago di Castello, an artificial lake created by the construction of the Pontechianale dam.
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The Vallanta refuge is located at 2,450 meters above sea level, under the west face of Monviso. It is an excellent stopover for those who travel the Giro del Monviso, but also for those who love mountaineering and reaching the peaks above. The refuge is open from mid-June to mid-September, during the closing period a spacious winter bivouac is available. In summer, reservations are required to stay overnight. Find more information on the official website: http://www.rifugiovallanta.it/home.asp.
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The charm of seeing the lake reflected in the water, encounters with (protected) salamanders, be careful not to step on them
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Very suggestive lake, to be admired at various times of the day
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Refuge offering refreshment service (dinner) and overnight stay
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the most popular lakes to visit around Pontechianale?
Among the most popular lakes are Lake Fiorenza, an alpine lake known for its unique beauty and proximity to the Po's source. Visitors also highly appreciate Lake Bagnour, nestled within the Alevè forest, and the artificial Lago di Pontechianale, which is a central hub for tourism and offers picturesque scenery.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy around the lakes near Pontechianale?
The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. At Lago di Pontechianale, you can enjoy water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and canoeing, as well as fishing. The surrounding area is excellent for hiking, with trails suitable for various levels. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and touring, which you can explore in guides like Gravel biking around Pontechianale or Road Cycling Routes around Pontechianale.
Are there easy walks or family-friendly options around the lakes?
Yes, Lago di Pontechianale is ideal for easy walks suitable for all ages, with a well-maintained 5 km path around the lake connecting the hamlet of Castello to the main town. The Blue Lakes Trail is also generally suitable for hikers of all ages and experience levels, making it a great option for families.
What kind of natural features and landmarks can I see near the lakes?
You can experience diverse natural features. The Blue Lakes are renowned for their intense blue color and spectacular views of Monviso. Lago di Fiorenza offers pristine alpine vistas. Lago Secco and Lago Bagnour are located within the vast Alevè Forest, the largest stone pine forest in the Alps, which is a protected EU Site of Community Interest. A unique historical feature at Lago di Pontechianale is the submerged hamlet of Borgata Chiesa, which becomes visible during periods of low water.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Pontechianale?
Summer is a popular time for hiking and picnics around Lago di Pontechianale, and for enjoying water sports. The high-altitude lakes and trails are typically accessible from early June to mid-September. Winter offers a magical snowy landscape for nature walks, though some higher trails and refuges may be closed or require specific winter gear.
Are there refuges or accommodation options near the lakes?
Yes, several refuges offer accommodation and services. Bagnour Hut and Lake Bagnour is located in the heart of the Alevè forest, providing a base for day trips or multi-day itineraries like the Giro del Monviso. The Vallanta Hut is another excellent stopover for those traveling the Giro del Monviso, situated at 2,450 meters under the west face of Monviso.
Can I reach the lakes using public transport?
While specific public transport details for each lake are not provided, Pontechianale itself is a central point in Valle Varaita. For detailed information on reaching the area, it's advisable to check local transport schedules or resources like Visit Cuneese for regional travel options.
Are there any historical sites or unique cultural aspects to explore?
Beyond the natural beauty, the region holds historical interest. The artificial Lago di Pontechianale was created by a dam built in 1942, and its unique feature is the submerged hamlet of Borgata Chiesa, which resurfaces during low water levels. The Alevè Forest, home to Lago Secco and Lago Bagnour, is an ancient forest, allegedly mentioned in Virgil's Aeneid and Pliny the Elder's Historia Naturalis, reflecting its long-standing ecological and historical significance.
What makes the Alevè Forest special?
The Alevè Forest, where Lago Secco and Lago Bagnour are located, is the largest stone pine forest in the Alps. It's a protected EU Site of Community Interest, managed for its biodiversity and historical value. Exploring this forest offers a unique ecological experience, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, and provides access to refuges like Bagnour Hut for extended stays.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Pontechianale?
Visitors frequently highlight the breathtaking scenery, especially the intense blue of the lakes against the Alpine backdrop, and the stunning photographic opportunities. The diverse range of experiences, from relaxed lakeside strolls and water sports to challenging alpine treks, is also highly appreciated. The unique historical element of the submerged hamlet at Lago di Pontechianale and the immersive experience of the ancient Alevè Forest are also significant draws.
Are there opportunities for multi-day hiking itineraries?
Yes, the area serves as an excellent base for multi-day treks. Refuges like Bagnour Hut and Vallanta Hut are key stops on longer routes such as the Giro del Monviso, allowing hikers to explore the diverse landscapes and high-altitude environments over several days.
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