Discover the picnic area of Lake Lod

Where is the picnic area of Lake Lod?

The area is located on the shores of Lake Lod, a beautiful alpine water mirror situated above the pedestrian village of Chamois, in the heart of Valtournenche. It is immersed in a natural basin at the foot of Monte Charvaz, where nature is the absolute protagonist. Here you can have lunch outdoors, relax in the sun, or simply enjoy the landscape, listening only to the rustle of the trees and the song of the birds.  Vegetation and natural environment  The vegetation surrounding the picnic area is typical of alpine altitudes. The mixed forest of larch and red fir provides shade and coolness on summer days, while the undergrowth is composed of juniper, rhododendron, and willow. In spring and summer, the landscape is colored with flowers and alpine plants, creating an enchanting atmosphere. In autumn, the larches turn yellow and orange, offering a chromatic spectacle that enchants photographers and nature lovers. The purity of the environment is guaranteed by the fact that Chamois is a car-free village: the absence of traffic allows for an authentic and silent experience, where the air is clean and nature is unspoiled.  How to reach the picnic area of Lake Lod  To reach Lake Lod and its picnic area, you must first arrive in Chamois, a village that can be reached exclusively by the Buisson-Chamois cable car. The cable car departs from the hamlet of Buisson, in the municipality of Antey-Saint-André, and in a few minutes takes visitors up to Corgnolaz, the main center of Chamois, at an altitude of 1,815 meters. Upon arrival at the cable car, you can choose between two options:  Walking: a simple and panoramic hiking trail, about 30-40 minutes of walking, connects Corgnolaz to Lake Lod. The path is suitable for everyone and crosses woods and pastures, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.  Corgnolaz-Lake Lod chairlift: during the summer opening periods, it is possible to reach the area directly with the chairlift that departs from the main square of the village. The journey is short but fascinating, with a panoramic view that opens up as you gain altitude.

What does the picnic area offer?

The picnic area of Lake Lod is fully equipped and well-maintained, perfect for a relaxing day with family or friends. It has:  Wooden tables and benches distributed along the lake shore; Barbecues and grills for outdoor cooking; Fountains with mountain drinking water; Large green spaces ideal for lying in the sun or playing with children; Bins and recycling areas to keep the environment clean. It is recommended to bring firewood or charcoal for using the grills, in accordance with local rules and safety conditions. During the busiest months, it is better to arrive in the morning to find a spot in the best places.  Panoramic view from the Lake Lod area  One of the most spectacular aspects of the picnic area is the view it offers of the mountains of the Aosta Valley. From here you can admire:  To the east: Mont Fontané and Grand Dent; To the west: Punta Fontanella; To the south: Punta Tersiva and Becca di Luseney; To the north: Petite Muraille, Grande Muraille, and the majestic Château des Dames. Each observation point offers a different perspective. In summer, the mountains are reflected in the waters of the lake, creating light games that change with the hours of the day. In autumn, the warm colors of the forest contrast with the blue sky, offering ideal views for photography.  Hiking in the surroundings of Lake Lod  The picnic area of Lake Lod is also an excellent starting point for longer hikes. Among the most beautiful and recommended routes are:  Towards the Sanctuary of Clavalité and Punta Falinère: an itinerary that develops at altitude and leads to splendid viewpoints. The climb requires some training, but the view from Punta Falinère rewards every effort.  Towards Cheneil and Col di Nana: descending from Lake Lod towards the locality of Cheneil, you can continue to Col di Nana, a connecting point between Valtournenche and the Cervino side. It is a panoramic route that crosses pastures and alpine meadows. Both itineraries are well marked and recommended during the summer and autumn, when the paths are dry and easily passable.

Why visit the picnic area of Lake Lod?

Because it represents the perfect synthesis of nature, relaxation, and alpine beauty. It is a place where you can completely disconnect from the frantic pace of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Families can enjoy a serene day among the woods, hikers can explore the surrounding trails, and those seeking tranquility can sit by the lake and listen to the sound of the water.  Moreover, the absence of cars and the quality of the air make the experience even more authentic. Chamois and Lake Lod perfectly embody the concept of sustainable tourism, where the mountain is experienced with respect and harmony.  Tips for visiting  Bring comfortable clothing and a light jacket even in summer: the altitude and the shade of the forest can make the air cool. In high season, arrive in the morning to find a free table. Do not light fires outside of authorized areas. Bring back everything you take up: leaving the place clean is a gesture of respect for the mountain.  A place to experience in every season  In summer, the picnic area of Lake Lod is a refuge from the heat, perfect for outdoor days between barbecues and walks. In autumn, it becomes a romantic and quiet place to admire the colors of the foliage. In winter, when everything is covered in snow, the landscape takes on a magical charm and the area transforms into a fairy-tale setting. In spring, finally, nature awakens and the lake reflects clearly under the sun. The picnic area of Lake Lod is much more than just a stop: it is an authentic mountain experience, immersed in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas of the Aosta Valley.