Lakes of Valtellina
Nestled in the heart of northern Lombardy, Valtellina is a magnificent alpine valley renowned for its stunning array of over 100 lakes, dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters.
Here’s a closer look at some of the region’s most captivating lakes:
1. Lago Palù
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Elevation: ~1,965 m (Valmalenco)
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Highlights: One of Valtellina’s largest lakes. Accessible via a 1.5-hour hike from S. Giuseppe or a 30-minute cable car from Chiesa in Valmalenco. Local tradition includes a diving event every second Sunday in August to honor the Christ of the Abyss.
2. Lakes of Cancano (San Giacomo & Cancano II)
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Elevation: ~1,900–2,000 m (Valdidentro, Alta Valtellina)
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Features: Two stunning turquoise artificial reservoirs, often paired with the natural Lago delle Scale. Encircled by an easy dirt track, they’re ideal for family bike rides and photos.
3. Lago di Livigno
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Elevation: ~1,816 m
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Activities: A popular summer spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. For panoramic views, hike to Crap de la Parè.
4. Bidet della Contessa (Bùrgùn)
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Elevation: ~1,000 m (Val di Mello, Val Masino)
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Description: A serene turquoise pool in Lombardy’s largest nature reserve, framed by dramatic granite. Just a 20-minute walk from the S. Martino car park.
5. Bei Laghetti
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Elevation: ~2,775 m (near Bormio)
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Highlights: Known as the “Maldives at 3000 m” due to its striking azure waters. Reached via a 60-minute hike from Bormio 3000 (cable car access may be seasonal).
6. Lago di Pescegallo
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Elevation: ~1,865 m (Val Gerola)
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Details: Previously natural but enlarged by a dam. Accessible via a hike or cable lift route to Rifugio Salmurano.
7. Lago Azzurro
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Elevation: ~1,853 m (Alpe Motta Alta, Campodolcino, Valchiavenna)
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Notables: A seasonal alpine lake fed by an underground spring—filling in spring, emptying in winter. Poet Carducci celebrated it in verse.
8. Lago degli Andossi
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Elevation: ~2,069 m (Altipiano degli Andossi, Valchiavenna)
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Atmosphere: A photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise or sunset. A family-friendly 1-hour hike from Madesimo, with a nearby alpine botanical garden.
9. Lakes of Porcile (Triad)
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Elevation: ~2,000 m (Val Lunga, Val Tartano)
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Trail Info: A moderate 2-hour hike from Arale (~600 m elevation gain), also part of the long-distance Gran Via delle Orobie trail.
10. Lago Belviso
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Elevation: ~1,800 m (Val Belviso, Aprica)
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Why Visit: A serene alpine lake near Diga di Frera, perfect for mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Leggi anche: Livigno Duty‑Free A Shopper’s Alpine Paradise
Additional Noteworthy Lakes Around Valtellina
Lago di Mezzola
Located north of Lake Como, at the mouth of the Mera River, it’s a tranquil spot beloved by local mountain bikers and nature lovers.
Barbellino Dam Lake
The largest artificial lake in the Orobie Mountains, situated at ~1,862 m, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. A highlight for hikers around Ponte in Valtellina.
Valgrosina Lakes
This lesser-known valley near Grosio houses a collection of alpine lakes—Acque Sparse, Lago Negro, Lago Nero, Calosso, Scapellino, Venere, and Spalmo—great for exploring by foot or from nearby refuges.
Why Valtellina’s Lakes Are Special
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Alpine diversity: From glacial tarns to engineered reservoirs, Valtellina offers a variety of water bodies all within a compact region.
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Outdoor adventure: Whether you’re after easy family trails or challenging hikes, there’s something for every level—from the 2-hour trail to Porcile to the tougher 8–9 hour trek like Profa Lakes.
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Visual allure: Crystal-clear waters reflect peaks and skies in perfect harmony—some lakes like Bei Laghetti even draw comparisons to tropical paradises.
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Cultural richness: Vibrant local traditions such as diving ceremonies, poetic tributes, and opportunities to pair scenic visits with regional food and wine enrich any experience.
Planning Tips for Exploring Valtellina’s Lakes
Match your itinerary to experience level: Opt for accessible spots like Cancano, Andossi, or Belviso for easy outings; for more active adventures, try Lago Azzurro, Porcile, or the challenging Profa Lakes hike.
Season matters: Spring and summer offer melted-access to high-altitude lakes like Lago Azzurro. Autumn brings fiery larch colors, especially around Cancano.
Capture the moment: Sunrise and sunset are magic hours by lakes such as Andossi, Manzina, and Campaccio.
Pair with culture: Combine lake visits with stops in Sondrio, Tiranо, Morbegno, or Bormio to explore culinary treats like pizzoccheri, alpine cheeses, or local heritage sites.
