Top 20 Lakes around Cles

Among the most popular lakes in the region are Lago di Nambino, a picturesque alpine lake nestled in the woods with the Brenta Dolomites as a backdrop, and Lake Tovel, known for its clear, green-blue-turquoise waters and stunning natural setting within the Adamello Brenta Natural Park.

Yes, several lakes offer great experiences for families. Lake Malghette is a fabulous destination with a path suitable for children and beginners to walk around the lake completely. Lago di Nambino is also easily accessible via a relatively short and easy hike, making it ideal for families. Additionally, Lake Molveno features the Molveno Forest Park for family fun, and Lake Smeraldo has a small beach and picnic areas.

The lakes around Cles offer diverse natural beauty. Lake Tovel is famous for its clear, green-blue-turquoise waters and the majestic Brenta Dolomites backdrop, while Lake Santa Giustina is notable for its vast artificial reservoir and the dramatic canyons carved by water. Lake Malghette, a glacial lake, boasts stunning reflections of the Brenta Dolomites and unique flora in its bog habitat.

Lake Santa Giustina is a paradise for water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and recreational fishing. Exploring its gorges by kayak offers a unique adventure. Lake Molveno is also excellent for stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, canoeing, swimming, and windsurfing. For a more tranquil experience, peaceful boat rides are an option at Lake Tovel (though swimming is not permitted).

Yes, many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. A popular and accessible loop hike around Lake Tovel takes about half an hour to an hour and a half. The "Santa Giustina Canyon Ring" trail allows exploration of the landscape around Lake Santa Giustina. Lake Molveno features a popular 12 km circular path ideal for walking or cycling. Lake Malghette and Lago di Nambino are also starting points for various hiking routes, including family-friendly options.

The best time to visit is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October) when trails are clear, flora blooms, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. During warmer months, lakes like Santa Giustina, Smeraldo, and Molveno are ideal for swimming and water sports. In winter, Lake Smeraldo transforms into an open-air ice skating rink when temperatures allow.

Yes, several lakes have amenities nearby. Lago di Nambino has the cozy Rifugio Nambino overlooking the water. Lake Malghette also has a comfortable refuge (Rifugio Malghette) on its eastern shore. Lake Molveno is surrounded by well-equipped grass and pebble beaches, and the town of Molveno offers various accommodation and dining options. Lake Smeraldo has picnic areas and is close to the town of Fondo.

Near Lake Santa Giustina, you can explore the ancient Eremo di Santa Giustina (Hermitage). Lake Molveno's circular path passes by historical sites like a Roman bridge and Napoleonic forts. Lake Tovel, while primarily natural, has a rich history tied to its former red water phenomenon, which is explored at the Red Lake Park House visitor center.

There are several cycling routes in the area that incorporate views of the lakes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Val di Sole Cycle Path – View of Lake Santa Giustina loop from Cles' or the 'Cles Town Hall Square – Lake Tovel loop from Cles'. You can explore more options for cycling around the region on the Cycling around Cles guide.

Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find trails that offer scenic views of the lakes. Routes such as the 'View of Lake Santa Giustina – Peller Hut loop from Cles' provide challenging and rewarding experiences. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the MTB Trails around Cles guide.

Lake Smeraldo, located in Fondo, is an artificial lake known for its vivid emerald-green waters, especially intense on sunny days. A unique way to reach it is via the fascinating Burrone path, which winds through a spectacular canyon carved by the Rio Sass stream, featuring geological formations and a Roman bridge. In winter, it can transform into an open-air ice skating rink.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, the clear and often turquoise waters, and the majestic backdrop of the Brenta Dolomites. Many appreciate the diverse outdoor activities available, from kayaking in canyons to peaceful hikes around alpine lakes. The family-friendly options and the tranquility of the natural settings are also highly valued.