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Macugnaga

Top 20 Lakes around Macugnaga

Best lakes around Macugnaga are found in the Italian Alps, at the foot of Monte Rosa. This picturesque resort town offers alpine landscapes featuring several notable lakes. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst mountain scenery. Visitors can explore a variety of natural and man-made lakes.

Best lakes around Macugnaga

  • The most popular lakes is Grünsee, a lake that offers a place to relax during a bike tour. It is suitable for picnics and swimming, providing views of…

Last updated: May 3, 2026

Grünsee

Highlight • Lake

The Grünsee (2,300 meters) is the ideal place to relax during a bike tour. Have a picnic, take a bath and enjoy the view of the Matterhorn.

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Riffelsee

Highlight • Viewpoint

From here you have a really nice view of the Matterhorn. If there is still no wind, you can still see the Matterhorn reflected in the lake.

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Mattmark Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

You can walk all the way around the lake and take the PostBus to the dam wall.

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Moosjisee

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Beautiful lake, even if it is artificially created.

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Alta Valsesia Nature Park

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The Alta Valsesia Natural Park is a treasure trove of beauty and biodiversity. It was established in 1979 and is the highest park in Europe because it reaches the 4,554 …

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Popular around Macugnaga

Between Italy and Switzerland – Tour of Monte Rosa

Along the highest rock face in Europe – Monterosa Est Himalayan Trail

Tour of Monte Rosa – a trek among the Giants between Italy and Switzerland

Sleep above 3000 meters

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Between Italy and Switzerland – Tour of Monte Rosa

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Bryan | Exploro Ergo Sum

Tips from the Community

Valentino Colombo
August 4, 2025, Alta Valsesia Natural Park

Beautiful viewpoint on the southern side of Monterosa, its peaks and glaciers

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The lake takes on a particular color when it is in the sun and you gain height to photograph it

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Very refreshing, our dog was able to bathe easily! On the other hand groups it is fresh, for the more daring

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Ha-Jo Biker
June 28, 2024, Riffelsee

Everyone wants to take the perfect photo, but you can only do that if you're lucky - when the sun is shining, it's not raining and the summit is clear of clouds. We were lucky and we're over the moon!

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Very beautiful, excellent view of the Monte Rosa wall

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Natural park characterized by the grandeur of the peaks present, the variety of landscapes and the possibility of close encounters with ibex/other wild animals

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You shouldn't swim here.

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Tammo
August 31, 2022, Grünsee

The lake shimmers green in the sunshine. Therefore the name.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Macugnaga?

Visitors frequently enjoy Grünsee for its relaxing atmosphere, picnic spots, and swimming opportunities with views of the Matterhorn. Another favorite is Riffelsee, known for its stunning reflections of the Matterhorn on calm days. The Mattmark Reservoir is also highly rated for its impressive size and the possibility to walk around the entire lake.

Are there any family-friendly lakes or walks around Macugnaga?

Yes, Grünsee is considered family-friendly, offering a pleasant spot for relaxation and swimming. The Mattmark Reservoir also provides an accessible path suitable for families to walk around its perimeter. Additionally, Fairy Lake (Lago delle Fate) is easily accessible via an easy one-hour walk from Macugnaga village or Isella, making it ideal for families and children.

What is Fairy Lake (Lago delle Fate) like, and can I swim there?

Fairy Lake (Lago delle Fate) is an enchanting alpine lake near Macugnaga, known for its crystal-clear emerald waters and the breathtaking reflection of Monte Rosa. It features small beaches and soft meadows, but swimming is unfortunately not permitted as it is an artificial basin used for electricity production. The area is rich in alpine flora and fauna, offering an immersive nature experience.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Macugnaga?

The recommended time to visit Fairy Lake (Lago delle Fate) and generally enjoy the alpine lakes around Macugnaga is from May to October. During winter, visits are possible but require appropriate gear like crampons or snowshoes.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?

The Macugnaga Wildlife Oasis, which includes lakes like Locce Lake and Ephemeral Lake, is dedicated to reintroducing ibex and observing other alpine animals such as chamois, marmots, and stoats. The area around Fairy Lake also boasts rich alpine flora and fauna, offering opportunities for nature observation.

Are there any lakes that are geological points of interest?

Yes, within the Macugnaga Wildlife Oasis, both Locce Lake and Ephemeral Lake are noted as interesting geological phenomena. They offer a wilder, more secluded mountain experience and can be reached starting from the Belvedere glacier.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Macugnaga?

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including difficult routes like the "B45 trail to Lago delle Locce beneath Monte Rosa" or the "Trail to Rifugio Zamboni-Zappa and Lago delle Locce." For cycling, there are routes like "Around the Mattmarksee - loop" which is an easy touring bicycle route. You can explore more options on the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and general cycling guide for Macugnaga.

How can I access the Macugnaga Wildlife Oasis and its lakes?

The Macugnaga Wildlife Oasis, which encompasses lakes like Locce Lake and Ephemeral Lake, can be accessed via the Belvedere Chairlift from Pecetto. This area is a marvelous place for hiking and nature lovers, with marked paths exploring alpine vegetation and larch and conifer woods.

Is there a lake that offers unique views of the Matterhorn?

Yes, Riffelsee is renowned for providing exceptional views of the Matterhorn, especially when its reflection is visible on the lake's surface on a windless day. It's also considered a beautiful spot for sunrise.

What is special about Moosjisee?

Moosjisee is an artificial reservoir, also known as Mosjesee, located at 2140m. Its water, fed by the Findel glacier, has a distinctive milky color due to suspended matter. The water is used for snow production on slopes and electricity generation. Swimming is prohibited here for safety reasons.

Can I walk around the entire Mattmark Reservoir?

Yes, you can walk all the way around the Mattmark Reservoir. The first half of the path (if walking counter-clockwise) is wide and suitable for vehicles, while the second half is a hiking trail that can sometimes be wet from mountain streams.

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

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