Top 20 Lakes around Argentera

The region around Argentera, nestled within the Stura Valley and the Mercantour-Argentera massif, is characterized by stunning Alpine landscapes. You'll find towering mountains, rolling meadows, and numerous glacial lakes. These high-altitude lakes often boast deep blue waters, set within old glacial cirques, surrounded by waterfalls and rich alpine meadows. Many offer enchanting views, such as the panorama of the high peaks of Ubaye from Lac du Lauzanier.

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families and easy walks. Lac du Lauzanier is a very popular destination for families, known for its easy access and the frequent sightings of marmots in summer. Another easily accessible option is Lago Nero (Valle Maira), which is one of the easiest lakes to reach and offers beautiful views of Rocca La Meja.

For those seeking a challenge, the Roburent Lakes offer a classic and difficult hiking destination in the Stura Valley, involving significant altitude gain to reach the lower, middle, and upper lakes. The 'Four Lakes Circuit' in Valle Stura is a rewarding but difficult hike. Additionally, the Lakes of Vens, located in an old glacial cirque, can be explored via a challenging circular hike. You can find more challenging routes in the area, such as the 'Lower Lake of Roburent – Bivacco Due Valli loop' which is a difficult running trail, by exploring the Running Trails around Argentera guide.

The Mercantour-Argentera massif is rich in biodiversity. When visiting lakes like Lac du Lauzanier, you can often spot marmots, especially during the summer months. The area around the Lakes of Vens is known for varied fauna including chamois, eagles, and mountain sheep, making it a great spot for wildlife observation.

Yes, near Lac du Lauzanier, you'll find the small chapel of Notre-Dame des Lumières, which sits on a hill overlooking the lake's banks, adding a cultural touch to the natural beauty. The Refuge de Vens is another notable structure, offering a typical mountain setting amidst the lakes and waterfalls of an old glacial cirque.

The best time to visit the lakes around Argentera is generally during the summer months. This is when the alpine meadows are lush, wildlife like marmots are active, and the weather is most favorable for hiking and exploring the high-altitude glacial lakes. Some refuges are guarded during these months, providing amenities for visitors.

While many high-altitude lakes have icy waters, swimming is permitted in some. Lac d'Allos, recognized as the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe, allows swimming. Lac de Trécolpas is another popular high-altitude lake where swimming is allowed. Always be prepared for cold temperatures.

Yes, there are several mountain huts and refuges. The Refuge de Vens is located near the Vens Lakes and is guarded during summer, offering accommodation and a typical mountain experience. Another option is the Guglielmo Migliorero Hut, which provides excellent views of the lower lakes of Ischiador and the valley, and can be reached via an easy walk.

Beyond hiking, the Argentera region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous mountain biking trails, such as the 'Gardetta Hut – Gardetta Pass loop' or the 'Bersezio – Upper Morgon Lake loop'. For gravel biking enthusiasts, routes like the 'Gardetta Plateau loop' are available. You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails around Argentera guide and the Gravel biking around Argentera guide.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Argentera, the broader Mercantour-Argentera massif boasts several significant lakes. Lac d'Allos stands out as the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe. The Lakes of Vens form a stunning group in an old glacial cirque, known for their dramatic setting. Other notable high-altitude glacial lakes include Lac Long, Lac Nègre, Lac de Trécolpas, and the mirror-like Lacs de Prals near the Italian border, all contributing to the diverse alpine environment.

Yes, Lago Nero (Valle Maira) is highlighted as one of the easiest lakes to reach, making it suitable for a shorter visit or those looking for less strenuous options. It offers enchanting views and is a popular destination for a 3-4 hour hike.

The Roburent Lakes are a classic hiking destination in the Stura Valley due to their stunning natural beauty and the rewarding challenge they offer. The hike typically starts from the Argentera cemetery and involves gaining significant altitude, passing through beautiful meadow slopes and past shepherd's huts, leading to a series of lower, middle, and upper lakes. The 'Four Lakes Circuit' is particularly renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery.