Explore the Beauty of Lake Vargno

Where is Lake Vargno located?

Lake Vargno is located in the Fontainemore area, in the Aosta Valley, at the gates of the beautiful Mont Mars Nature Reserve. It lies in a deep glacial basin at over 1,600 meters above sea level, surrounded by coniferous forests and imposing peaks. The lake covers approximately 33,300 square meters, creating one of the most picturesque landscapes in the upper Lys Valley.

What mountains can be seen from Lake Vargno?

From its shores, one can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains: Punta Leretta, Punta Figlieu, Mont Mars, Monte Rosso, the Lei Long and Gragliasca peaks, and Monte Pietra Bianca, known in patois as Pere Bionche. On a clear day, the reflections of these peaks on the crystal-clear water provide a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Where does the name "Vargno" come from?

The name Vargno comes from the patois term that refers to the white fir, a symbol tree of this area. The white fir, along with maples, rowans, birches, alders, laburnums, and larches, populates the forests encountered along the road from the Pillaz fraction to the Mattà bridge. This species is quite rare elsewhere in the region, but here it thrives thanks to the climate and soil composition.

How was Lake Vargno formed and what is its history?

Lake Vargno is of glacial origin, but its current shape is also linked to human intervention in the 20th century. In 1916, a stone dam was built to increase the reservoir's capacity and ensure a water reserve for hydroelectric energy. After the Vajont tragedy in 1963, for safety reasons, the dam was "cut" and the lake returned to its natural level, taking on the harmonious and wild appearance we know today.

What kind of natural environment surrounds the lake?

The environment around Lake Vargno is typically alpine. Surrounding the water mirror are high-altitude pastures and coniferous forests that gradually give way to meadows and bare rocks as one ascends. The area is inhabited by marmots, chamois, and ibex, while the air is scented with alpine herbs and resins. It is an ideal place for those who love unspoiled nature and tranquil hikes.

How do you reach Lake Vargno by car?

To reach Lake Vargno by car, you start from Fontainemore, along the Regional Road 44 of the Lys Valley. At the height of the Pillaz fraction, you take the dirt road leading to the Mont Mars Reserve. The road, initially paved, becomes unpaved after a few kilometers. It is passable up to the Pian Coumarial parking lot or, in summer, up to a higher point depending on road conditions. From there, you continue on foot along a well-marked trail.

It is advisable to have a vehicle with good ground clearance or an off-road vehicle, especially in the summer season, when the road may have rough sections.

How do you get to Lake Vargno on foot?

The walking route to Lake Vargno is one of the most scenic in the area. From the Pian Coumarial parking lot, you follow the trail that gently ascends through larch and fir forests, passing near streams and flowering clearings. The trail is well-marked and suitable for less experienced hikers. In about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you reach the lake, with an elevation gain of about 400 meters.

For those who enjoy walking more, it is possible to start directly from the Pillaz fraction, taking a longer but panoramic route that crosses ancient dry stone walls and centuries-old forests. In this case, the ascent takes about 2 hours and a half.

What is the best time to visit Lake Vargno?

The ideal time to visit Lake Vargno is from June to October. In spring, the surrounding meadows fill with alpine flowers, while in summer, the cool climate makes the walk pleasant even on the hottest days. In autumn, the colors of the larches and birches transform the landscape into a golden mosaic. In winter, however, the access road is usually closed due to snow, and the lake becomes reachable only with snowshoes or ski mountaineering.

What can you do at Lake Vargno?

Lake Vargno is perfect for those seeking tranquility and nature. You can have a picnic on its shores, photograph the landscapes, observe local wildlife, or simply relax listening to the sound of the wind among the trees. Hiking enthusiasts can continue beyond the lake, following trails that lead to Mont Mars or the alpine pastures of the upper basin. In summer, it is also an ideal destination for family hikes or relaxing days away from mass tourism.

Are there shelters or rest areas near the lake?

There are no managed shelters around Lake Vargno, but nearby, at Pian Coumarial, there is a equipped area with a bar and information point for the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. It is an excellent starting point for hikes and offers parking, services, and picnic tables. Those wishing to continue can explore the trails connecting Pian Coumarial with Lake Vargno and other scenic points in the reserve.

Why visit Lake Vargno?

Visiting Lake Vargno means immersing oneself in an authentic corner of the Aosta Valley, where nature reigns supreme and time seems to flow more slowly. It is a place that fascinates hikers, photographers, and lovers of silence. Its clear waters, the mountains reflecting in the lake, and the richness of the surrounding vegetation create a unique atmosphere capable of conveying serenity and wonder.