Best lakes around Vinadio are found in the Stura Valley, an area known for its diverse natural and cultural landscape. The region features both artificial reservoirs, such as Lago del Forte, and natural alpine lakes like those in Sant'Anna di Vinadio. These bodies of water are set against the backdrop of the Maritime Alps, offering varied environments for exploration. The area is characterized by its rich biodiversity and significant historical sites, including the Forte Albertino and the Santuario di Sant'Anna.
…Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Beautiful alpine lake in the Gesso valley, nearby we find the Livio Bianco refuge. Continuing on the mule track you could climb to the upper lake and the Valletta hill
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The Emilio Questa Refuge, at 2,388 m, is located in the Maritime Alps Natural Park (CN). Open in summer, it offers beds and a winter room. It can be reached from Valdieri. Restaurant with typical cuisine and facing beautiful Alpine views. Info: www.rifugioquesta.it.
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You can also reach the refuge by e-bike
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Beautiful walk using the path that branches off from the dirt road
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Next to the wonderful Portette lake
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Lake located next to this one, wonderful
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lake sottano and in the valley gesso
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In the town of Saint-Etienne de Tinée, in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, the Vens Lakes refuge offers a mountain setting typical of the Maritime Alps. The Vens refuge is located in one of the most prestigious places in the Mercantour Park. It is located in an environment of natural lakes, waterfalls in an old glacial cirque, rich alpine meadows and varied fauna (mountain sheep, chamois, eagles, etc.).
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The Vinadio area features a diverse range of lakes, including artificial reservoirs like Lago del Forte, and natural alpine lakes such as those in Sant'Anna di Vinadio (including Lago di Sant'Anna and Lacs de Lausfer) and Lago della Sauma. These lakes offer varied environments, from recreational facilities to pristine high-altitude settings.
For swimming and relaxation, Lago Nero (Valle Maira) is a popular choice, with visitors recommending a swim there. The artificial Lago del Forte also becomes swimmable in summer and offers amenities like a snack bar and picnic areas, making it ideal for relaxation.
Yes, Lago del Forte is notable for its proximity to the historic Forte Albertino, whose silhouette reflects in its waters. The area around the lake also hosts an art sculpture, "Untitled – Renaissance." Additionally, the natural lakes of Sant'Anna di Vinadio are near the Santuario di Sant'Anna, Italy's highest sanctuary, adding a significant cultural and spiritual dimension to a visit.
The Vinadio area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails leading to various lakes, such as the scenic transborder route that includes Lacs de Lausfer and Lago di Sant'Anna. For specific routes, explore the Hiking around Vinadio guide, which includes routes like the 'Ascent to Lake Sant'Anna — Ring tour' and the 'Ischiator Lakes Trail from Bagni di Vinadio'.
Yes, Lago del Forte is particularly family-friendly, offering a picnic area, beach volleyball, and a soccer field. Its shallow waters are suitable for summer swimming. Many trails around the lakes also cater to various difficulty levels, with some being easier walks. Lago Nero (Valle Maira) is also highlighted as one of the easiest lakes to reach.
The natural alpine lakes, especially in the Sant'Anna di Vinadio area and around Lago della Sauma, are known for their rich biodiversity. Visitors may spot chamois, ibex, deer, marmots, and various bird species, including eagles, in these pristine environments.
The summer months are ideal for visiting the lakes around Vinadio, especially for swimming and enjoying recreational facilities at Lago del Forte. The alpine lakes are also most accessible for hiking during this season, offering pleasant weather and vibrant flora.
Yes, there are several refuges in the vicinity. The Guglielmo Migliorero Hut offers excellent views of the Ischiador lakes. The Emilio Questa Refuge is located near Lago delle Portette. Additionally, Refuge de Vens is guarded during summer months and provides dormitory facilities.
Absolutely. The Vinadio area, particularly around the alpine lakes like Lacs de Lausfer, offers challenging transborder hiking routes with stunning views and significant elevation gains. The Hiking around Vinadio guide lists difficult routes such as the 'Ischiator Lakes Trail from Bagni di Vinadio' and 'San Bernolfo-Testa dell'Autaret Trail'.
Yes, the Vinadio region is excellent for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including those passing through the Stura Valley or towards Col de la Lombarde, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Vinadio guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like the 'Neraissa Pass Loop' available in the MTB Trails around Vinadio guide.
Many lakes in the Vinadio area boast picturesque views. Lago del Forte offers a unique reflection of the historic Forte Albertino. Lago di Sant'Anna provides serene reflections of the Maritime Alps. Lago delle Portette is known for its clear blue waters, and Lago Nero (Valle Maira) offers enchanting views of Rocca La Meja.
For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting Lago della Sauma in the Bagni di Vinadio area. While specific recreational facilities are less documented, it is valued for its pristine alpine setting and offers nature immersion in a quiet environment, accessible via hiking trails from San Bernolfo.


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