Best lakes around Rassa are found in the Piedmont region of Italy, characterized by its alpine landscape and numerous high-altitude water bodies. The area is part of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve, offering a natural setting for exploration. Rassa and its surroundings feature mountain lakes, often accompanied by refuges, providing both natural beauty and amenities for visitors. This region is known for its diverse terrain, ranging from valleys to peaks, with lakes nestled within.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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At 2020 meters, Lake Barma (or Balma) is a lake of glacial origin sunken between the Gragliasca peak, Lei Long and Balma d’Oropa on the left, Mont Mars and Monte Rosso on the right, and the Balma d’Oropa hill in front. With 31,320 square meters of extension, it is the largest lake included in the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. On its shores, from the second half of June, rhododendrons, mountain lilies, round cotton grasses, mountain arnica and wild orchids bloom.
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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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The Rifugio Lago della Vecchia is located in the Biella Alps, at 1,872 meters above sea level, near the lake of the same name. It offers typical Piedmontese cuisine and the possibility of overnight stays with 22 beds. It opens in the summer season but for more information, visit the website: rifugiolagodellavecchia.it
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waterfalls of the Oropa stream on the path to Mucrone
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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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Between the sanctuary of Oropa and the Rosazza refuge, at this point you can see a small but pretty waterfall of the Oropa stream. The water flows between several boulders to create a truly remarkable play of colors and reflections.
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Convenient road from the sanctuary, beautiful to look at and cool to rinse off
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This beautiful lake is located at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. From its banks Punta Leretta, Punta Figlieu, Mount Mars, Mount Rosso, the Lei Long and Gragliasca peaks and Mount Pietra Bianca are visible. It's a nice place to take a break on your mountain run with a breathtaking view. The paths in this area are mostly free of technical difficulties and easy to follow while running.
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Yes, Lake Vargno is noted as family-friendly and offers mostly easy-to-follow paths, making it suitable for a break during a mountain run or a leisurely visit. The Oropa Stream Waterfall, while not a lake, is also considered family-friendly and offers a beautiful natural sight.
The lakes around Rassa are nestled in an alpine landscape within the Piedmont region, often part of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. You can expect to see stunning mountain views, such as Punta Leretta, Mont Mars, and Monte Rosso from Lake Vargno. Many lakes are high-altitude, offering pristine natural environments and sometimes waterfalls like the Oropa Stream Waterfall.
Yes, several lakes have nearby refuges. Lago della Vecchia Hut is located right near the lake of the same name, offering typical Piedmontese cuisine and overnight stays. Rifugio della Balma is another modern refuge set on a promontory with two lakes at its foot, providing amenities like 24h electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot water.
The area around Rassa's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like 'Monte Bo di Valsesia Loop from Rassa' or 'Trail 261 to Alpe Salei and Lago della Seia'. For more options, explore hiking around Rassa. There are also cycling and running opportunities; for example, the 'Balmuccia-Alagna Cycle Trail' is popular for cycling, and 'Loop tour between Scopello and Riale' for running. Find more details on cycling around Rassa and running trails around Rassa.
While many routes in the alpine region can be challenging, some paths, particularly around Lake Vargno, are noted for being mostly free of technical difficulties and easy to follow. These can be suitable for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous walk. Always check route details for difficulty before heading out.
The refuges like Lago della Vecchia Hut typically open in the summer season, suggesting that late spring through early autumn offers the most accessible and pleasant conditions for visiting the high-altitude lakes. During these months, trails are generally clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities.
The region offers a variety of lakes, from those with facilities to more secluded natural monuments. While specific 'less crowded' lakes aren't explicitly listed, exploring beyond the most popular highlights and venturing into the Mont Mars Nature Reserve can lead to more tranquil and secluded spots, especially on weekdays or outside peak season.
Visitors frequently appreciate the breathtaking views and the opportunity for a peaceful break in nature. The modern amenities and hospitality of refuges like Rifugio della Balma, combined with the stunning natural setting of lakes like Lake Vargno, are often highlighted. The diverse terrain and the chance to see various peaks also contribute to a memorable experience.
Absolutely. The alpine setting with lakes reflecting surrounding peaks offers numerous photographic opportunities. Lake Vargno, with views of Mont Mars and other peaks, and the Barma Lakes, with the refuge on a hill, provide picturesque scenes. The Oropa Stream Waterfall also creates remarkable plays of colors and reflections, ideal for photography.
Yes, for example, Lake Vargno is mentioned as having the possibility of a ring excursion around it. Many mountain lakes in the region are part of larger trail networks, allowing for circular routes that offer varied perspectives of the landscape. You can find more detailed circular hiking routes in the hiking guide for Rassa.
Rifugio della Balma is a modern and comfortable refuge located at 2,060 meters above sea level within the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. It's set on a promontory with two beautiful lakes at its foot, offering breathtaking views. The refuge provides 24h electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot water, making it a well-equipped stop for hikers, including those on the Oropa Valley walk.
Yes, several refuges near the lakes offer dining options. Lago della Vecchia Hut serves typical Piedmontese cuisine. Rifugio della Balma also has a large bar and dining rooms. These facilities provide convenient spots to refuel and relax while enjoying the lake views.


Still not found your perfect lake around Rassa? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.