Nestled within the highest reaches of the Italian Alps, a collection of glacial lakes awaits adventurous souls. These natural wonders are the legacy of snow and ice, resilient against the forces of climate change. Their waters shimmer in a palette of greens, turquoises, and deep blues each lake a unique masterpiece painted by nature.
Accessible only by foot, these lakes are a treasure trove for trekking enthusiasts. They offer a rewarding challenge, with panoramas that etch themselves into memory. This guide invites you to explore some of Italy’s most spectacular high-altitude lakes, each with its own unique charm and allure.
Lago di Antermoia: A Legendary Treasure
The Lago di Antermoia lies in the heart of the Val di Fassa at the foot of the Catinaccio d’Antermoia peak. This 2,495-meter-high lake is one of the highest in the Dolomites. Unlike many glacial lakes, it remains fed by underground springs, ensuring its waters stay throughout the summer.
Legend has it that the lake was formed from the tears of a Ladin ninfa Antermoia, who turned into water when her love called her name, breaking a spell. This enchanting tale adds a touch of magic to the lake’s already mesmerizing beauty.
Several trails lead to Lago di Antermoia, with the most scenic route starting from Pera di Fassa. This journey takes you through the Val di Vajolet past the Rifugio Passo Principe and over the Passo Antermoia before descending to the lake. The trek is approximately 20 kilometers long, with a 1,000-meter elevation gain, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Val Viola Lakes: A Sun-Kissed Haven
Situated between Bormio and Livigno in the Alta Valtellina the Val Viola is a sun-drenched valley. Its favorable climate makes it accessible even at the start and end of the season, as well as in the peak of summer.
The Lago di Val Viola near the Swiss border, is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by verdant meadows and rocky peaks. A simple hike from Altumeira just over 2,000 meters in altitude, leads to this 2,267-meter-high lake. The trail is about 3 kilometers long, offering a relatively easy trek.
Nearby, around the Rifugio Viola two smaller lakes reflect the surrounding peaks, including the Corno Dosdè at 3,232 meters. From the rifugio, you can reach the Passo di Val Viola a 2,460-meter-high pass marking the Swiss border.
The Nivolet Lakes: Jewels of the Gran Paradiso
The Colle del Nivolet is a renowned alpine pass within the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso straddling the border between Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta. At over 2,600 meters in altitude, it offers access to several stunning lakes.
Approaching from Ceresole Reale you’ll first encounter the Lago Serrù and Lago Agnel two expansive glacial lakes enhanced by human intervention. Their intense blue hues are a sight to behold.
For those seeking a more challenging trek, a trail starts from the Chiapili di Sopra bus stop, crossing the Orco torrent and ascending 4 kilometers to the Lago Serrù. Further exploration leads to smaller lakes like the Lago Rosset recognizable by its distinctive island, and the nearby Lago Leità. The intrepid can continue to the Col Rosset enjoying breathtaking views of the lakes below.
The Five Lakes Circuit: A Trekker’s Paradise
Near Madonna di Campiglio in Trentino the Five Lakes Circuit offers a challenging yet rewarding trek. This 15-kilometer route takes about 6 hours to complete, winding through the Gruppo della Presanella peaks.
Starting from the Baita Natalia at 2,064 meters the trail leads to five alpine lakes: Lago RitortoLago LambinLago SerodoliLago Gelato and Lago Nero. Each lake is situated above 2,000 meters offering stunning views and unique landscapes.
The Lago Serodoli is particularly scenic, with a small stone bivouac on its southern shore. Nearby, the Lago Gelato offers a dramatic backdrop of rocky crests and panoramic views. After visiting these lakes, the trek descends to the Lago Nero completing the circuit.
Lago di Crespeina: A Wild Gem
Perched at 2,374 meters in the Parco Naturale Puez-Odle the Lago di Crespeina is a wild and rugged beauty. Its emerald waters are nestled in a rocky basin, offering a stark yet captivating landscape.
The trail to Lago di Crespeina begins at the Passo Gardena just over 2,100 meters in altitude. Following the Alta Via delle Dolomiti trail number 2, the hike involves a 300-meter ascent to the Passo Crespeina. From here, a short descent leads to the lake, where you can relax on the meadows and admire the surrounding peaks, including the nearby Col Turond.
