Top 20 Lakes around Vals

The Vals region features a diverse range of lakes, including both natural alpine tarns and significant artificial reservoirs. You'll encounter high-lying, crystalline lakes like Selvasee and Guraletschsee, as well as impressive dammed lakes such as the emerald-green Zerfreila-Stausee and Lago di Luzzone.

Yes, the region is home to several impressive reservoirs. The Zervreila Reservoir is an emerald-green artificial lake nestled amidst a stunning mountain backdrop, dominated by the Zerfreilahorn. Another significant one is Lago di Luzzone, known for its 225-meter high dam, located in the upper Blenio valley. You can also visit Lake Carassina, another artificial lake at 1705 meters above sea level.

The '3-Lakes Hike' is a highly regarded route in Graubünden, featuring three high-lying tarns: Selvasee, Ampervreilasee, and Guraletschsee. These lakes shimmer in shades of blue and green, offering a beautiful trekking experience through diverse alpine scenery.

Many areas around the lakes offer family-friendly options. For instance, the Zervreila–Frunt–Gadastatt Trail near the Zervreila Reservoir is considered suitable for children, with highlights like the dam and the old settlement of Frunt. The Selvasee also provides quiet picnic spots. Additionally, the San Bernardino Pass area, which includes a lake, is noted as family-friendly.

Absolutely. The lakes are central to many hiking experiences. The '3-Lakes Hike' is a prime example, leading past Guraletschsee, Ampervreilasee, and Selvasee. You can also find trails around the Zerfreila-Stausee, offering breathtaking views. For more detailed hiking routes, explore the Hiking around Vals guide.

The alpine environment around the lakes is rich in natural beauty. Near Guraletschsee, you might spot marmots in the green pastures filled with alpine flowers, and the surrounding moorland is interspersed with cotton grass. The Zerfreila-Stausee is set against the imposing Zerfreilahorn, often called the 'Grisons Matterhorn'.

Yes, the Zervreila Restaurant and Dam is conveniently located directly at the Zervreila reservoir, offering a place to dine with beautiful views. A detour to the Selva Alp near Selvasee also provides an opportunity to taste local alpine cheese.

The best time to visit the lakes around Vals largely depends on the activities you plan. For hiking and enjoying the alpine flora, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn are ideal. In winter, the 7 km route from Zerfreila to Vals transforms into a toboggan run, offering a unique seasonal experience.

Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. For example, Lago di Luzzone and the area around San Bernardino Pass are noted as dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock.

Yes, in winter, the 7 km route from Zerfreila to Vals, near the Zerfreila-Stausee, transforms into a popular toboggan run, providing an unforgettable experience in the snow-covered landscape.

For those interested in cycling, there are various options. You can find gravel biking routes in the wider Vals region, such as the 'Splügen - Splügen Gravel Bike loop' or the 'Historic Village of Splügen – Lake Montespluga loop'. More details are available in the Gravel biking around Vals guide.

The Zerfreila-Stausee has a notable historical connection. The area was once home to the village of Zervreila, which disappeared with the construction of the dam in 1956. The Zervreila Restaurant was even built from old wooden houses from this former village.