Top 20 Lakes around Donato
Lakes around Donato, a municipality in Italy's Piedmont region, are largely glacial in origin and nestled in the Alpine foothills. This area offers diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The region's appeal as a destination dates back to the Roman Era, known for its pleasant climate and Alpine vistas. These lakes are cherished for their scenic landscapes and serene atmospheres.
Best lakes around Donato
- The most popular lakes is Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses,…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses
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Rifugio della Balma
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Floating platform on Lake Sirio
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Lake Vargno
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Lake Meugliano
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Tips from the Community
Pier on the lake with excellent views for photos
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From the catwalk, we saw the catfish slowly emerging from the water and then sinking again (impressive, it can reach 2.5 meters in length and 130 kg) 29/11/25
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A beautiful lake among the woods of Valchiusella, reachable on foot on easy paths, but also by car
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Beautiful walkway from where you can admire Lake Sirio!
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Very modern and comfortable refuge. Equipped with 24h electricity, wi-fi, hot water. The refuge is also a stop for the Oropa Valley walk. The Barma refuge is located at an altitude of 2060 meters in the Mont Mars nature reserve, located between the Biella area and the Lys Valley in the Aosta Valley. The stone structure is built around the roche moutonne in the center of an amphitheater overlooking the lakes of the same name at the foot of the Mont Mars massif (2600 m). The refuge is recently built and has a large bar, two dining rooms, eight rooms, five of which seat 8, two seat 4 and a double with bathroom. The services are shared. The structure is equipped with solar panels for the production of electricity, integrated with a co-generator system. The water is collected from the depths of the lake and treated with a water purifier so as to avoid the use of packaging to be disposed of.
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Regardless of whether you reach the Serra di Ivrea or not, even wandering around these lakes, taking advantage of the good signage present, pays off! There is a nice variety of environments and paths, from single track to dirt road, ending on cobblestone sections, never too banal, especially in the wet... the lake environments are beautiful, given that most of these lakes are not very urbanized, the stilt houses rebuilt on the shore of Lake Pistono are very beautiful, they certainly deserve a stop. Places also suitable for children, given that in the lake area the differences in altitude are very modest... just watch out for hikers, because the paths are open to everyone!
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Unique place in Piedmont, the rest in the details for those who are interested..
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Recently built refuge surrounded by the Barma lakes, open in the summer and reachable with a not too demanding walk from Pillaz (or from Pian Coumarial) a hamlet of Fontainemore, overcoming a long stretch of road up to Lake Vargno
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Donato?
The Donato area, nestled in the Alpine foothills of Piedmont, features a variety of lakes, primarily glacial and morainic in origin. You'll find high-altitude mountain lakes, like those near Rifugio della Balma, as well as more accessible morainic lakes such as Lake Meugliano.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Donato?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Lake Meugliano is very popular on weekends and summer days, offering a relaxing spot for picnics and easy walks around its shores. Lake Pistono and the Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses provides both scenic views and an educational experience with its historical reconstruction. The Floating platform on Lake Sirio also offers a unique way to enjoy the lake's beauty.
What are some popular hiking opportunities near the lakes?
The region offers diverse hiking experiences. You can find easy paths around lakes like Lake Vargno, which is at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve and offers breathtaking views. For more challenging mountain adventures, the area around Rifugio della Balma, located at 2,060 meters above sea level, provides a rugged and secluded experience. For a broader range of trails, explore the Mountain Hikes around Donato guide.
Which lakes offer the best viewpoints?
Many lakes around Donato boast stunning views. From the banks of Lake Vargno, you can see several peaks including Punta Leretta, Mount Mars, and Mount Pietra Bianca. Lake Pistono offers splendid views of the lake itself and the Montalto castle. The Floating platform on Lake Sirio allows you to fully admire the lake's beauty from a unique perspective.
Are there historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, Lake Pistono is notable for its Archaeological Park of the Stilt Houses. This park features a full-scale reconstruction of a 6500-year-old village, offering insights into how people lived in Montalto millennia ago.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Donato?
The region benefits from a mild, sub-Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant for visits during many seasons. Summer is particularly popular for families enjoying lakes like Lake Meugliano. The Alpine foothills and high-altitude lakes are generally best enjoyed from late spring through early autumn for hiking and outdoor activities.
Can I go cycling near the lakes?
Absolutely. The area around Donato offers various cycling routes. For road cycling, you can find routes that pass by lakes, such as the 'From Ivrea to Traversella with lakes of Meugliano and Vidracco' loop. You can explore more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Donato guide.
Are there running trails available near the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails. For example, the 'Donato e Torre della Bastia' loop run starts from Lago di Cossavella. You can find more detailed information and other options in the Running Trails around Donato guide.
What facilities are available at the high-altitude lakes?
At higher elevations, you can find facilities like Rifugio della Balma. This modern and comfortable refuge is set on a promontory with two lakes at its foot within the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. It offers amenities such as 24-hour electricity, Wi-Fi, hot water, a bar, dining rooms, and various rooms for overnight stays.
Is parking available at the lakes?
Yes, for lakes like Lake Meugliano, ample parking is available nearby, making it convenient for visitors to access the lake and its surrounding trails.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Donato?
Visitors appreciate the serene atmospheres and scenic landscapes. Many enjoy the opportunities for relaxing breaks during mountain runs or hikes, with breathtaking views. The presence of easy-to-follow paths, like those around Lake Vargno, and the tranquility of spots like Lake Meugliano, are frequently highlighted.
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