Top 12 Lakes around Avigliana
Best lakes around Avigliana are located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, featuring two significant glacial lakes, Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo, both protected within the Lakes of Avigliana Natural Park. This area offers diverse natural landscapes, from clear waters to extensive reed beds and morainic hills. The lakes provide opportunities for various outdoor activities and serve as important conservation areas for aquatic habitats and wildlife. They are the only surviving lakes from the last two great Pleistocene glaciations in the Susa valley.
Best lakes around Avigliana
- The most popular lakes is Lago Grande di Avigliana, a lake of morainic origin that serves as a popular destination for visitors from Turin. It is known for its exceptional water quality and offers opportunities for swimming, sailing, and kayaking.
- Another must-see spot is Lakes of Avigliana, a natural monument and family-friendly area. This natural park is a biodiversity treasure chest, encompassing the two lakes, the Mareschi swamp, and moraine hills.
- Visitors also love Small Lake of Avigliana, a lake offering a more natural and secluded experience. It is less crowded than Lago Grande and provides a peaceful setting for walks and birdwatching, with a picnic area available.
- Avigliana is known for its two distinct glacial lakes: Lago Grande, suitable for recreational activities, and Lago Piccolo, valued for its naturalistic interest. These lakes offer a variety of experiences, from active water sports to tranquil nature observation.
- The lakes around Avigliana are appreciated by the komoot community, with 392 upvotes and 55 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Pessina Pond
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Small Lake of Avigliana
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Lago Grande di Avigliana
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Lake Fontaneij
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The Wet Meadow of Monte Musinè
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This wet meadow, located in a xerothermic area, i.e. a dry microclimate, is of great ecological and biological importance: a small jewel to be protected.
Important for Lepidoptera (butterflies), for birds, including the characteristic nightjar, a nocturnal insectivore, and for mammals. But it is of particular value for the numerous ponds present in it, a perfect example of non-anthropic wetlands in Piedmont. The ponds are used for the reproduction of 8 species of amphibians, 3 of which are covered by the Habitats Directive. Remarkable and rare is the simultaneous presence of the three Piedmontese newt species, the fascinating great crested newt, the lesser spotted newt and the colourful alpine water newt.
The reproductive presence of the Dalmatian frog and the tree frog is also important.
The aim of the Natura Invisibile association is to protect this biotope of great naturalistic value and increase its potential through the creation of numerous ponds and pools, transforming the meadow into one of the most important wetlands in the region. We invite users to also enjoy the extraordinary landscape power of the place, a perfect example of the fusion of Mediterranean and Alpine micro-habitats.
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Popular around Avigliana
Via Francigena in Valle di Susa – complete route and 'for all' section
Land of wines, culture, good food – UNESCO Grand Tour in Piedmont
Hiking around Avigliana
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Cycling around Avigliana
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Running Trails around Avigliana
Gravel biking around Avigliana
Mountain Hikes around Avigliana
Tips from the Community
Beautiful lake surrounded by greenery, a paradise for fishermen.
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The wet meadow This wet meadow, located in a xerothermic area, i.e. a dry microclimate, is of great ecological and biological importance: a small jewel to be protected. Important for Lepidoptera (butterflies), for birds, including the characteristic nightjar, a nocturnal insectivore, and for mammals. But it is of particular value for the numerous ponds present in it, a perfect example of non-anthropic wetlands in Piedmont. The ponds are used for the reproduction of 8 species of amphibians, 3 of which are covered by the Habitats Directive. Remarkable and rare is the simultaneous presence of the three Piedmontese newt species, the fascinating great crested newt, the lesser spotted newt and the colourful alpine water newt. The reproductive presence of the Dalmatian frog and the tree frog is also important. The aim of the Natura Invisibile association is to protect this biotope of great naturalistic value and increase its potential through the creation of numerous ponds and pools, transforming the meadow into one of the most important wetlands in the region. We invite users to also enjoy the extraordinary landscape power of the place, a perfect example of the fusion of Mediterranean and Alpine micro-habitats.
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Excellent for a stop, to decide which route to take.
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Immediately outside Pianezza, equipped area and playground
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Excellent destination for a bike ride or starting point for many climbs of varying difficulty.
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Almost always dry during periods of drought, it is located near the Madonna degli Alpini
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It is located near the Alpignano Pianezza variant
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes to visit in Avigliana?
The primary lakes are Lago Grande di Avigliana, known for its clear waters and recreational activities like swimming and sailing, and Small Lake of Avigliana (Lago Piccolo), which offers a more natural and secluded experience ideal for birdwatching and peaceful walks.
What makes the Lakes of Avigliana Natural Park special?
The Lakes of Avigliana Natural Park is a significant conservation area, protecting the two glacial lakes, the Mareschi swamp, and morainic hills. It's a treasure chest of biodiversity, home to over 50 bird species and diverse aquatic habitats, representing the only surviving glacial lakes from the Pleistocene glaciations in the Susa valley.
Can I swim in the lakes around Avigliana?
Yes, you can swim in Lago Grande di Avigliana, which is renowned for its exceptional water quality. It offers designated swimming areas, including a natural swimming pool with buoys and assistance during peak times. Lago Piccolo, however, is not suitable for swimming due to its naturalistic focus.
Are there hiking trails near the Avigliana lakes?
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. You can explore routes like the easy 'Lago Grande di Avigliana e Monte Pezzulano' or the moderate 'Lago Piccolo di Avigliana, Pera Luvera e Monte Cuneo'. For more options, including challenging routes, refer to the Hiking around Avigliana guide.
What cycling opportunities are available around the lakes?
The area offers various cycling options. You can enjoy a pleasant ride around Small Lake of Avigliana, utilizing the recently repaved concrete cycle path, such as the Lakeside Cycle Path at the Lago Piccolo di Avigliana. For more extensive routes, including gravel biking and mountain biking, check out the Gravel biking around Avigliana and MTB Trails around Avigliana guides.
Are the lakes around Avigliana family-friendly?
Absolutely. Both lakes offer family-friendly activities. Lago Grande di Avigliana is great for swimming and picnicking, while Small Lake of Avigliana has a nice picnic area and easy walks. The entire Lakes of Avigliana Natural Park is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for families.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes?
Near Lago Grande di Avigliana, you can find the Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Laghi. Additionally, the Sacra di San Michele, a historic abbey, overlooks the protected area from above, serving as a significant landmark since the year 1000.
What is the best time to visit the Avigliana lakes?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural scenery. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports on Lago Grande di Avigliana, while the naturalistic interest of Small Lake of Avigliana makes it a peaceful destination in any season.
Are there facilities like cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, there are facilities available. Small Lake of Avigliana features an equipped area with wooden tables and a restaurant. The lakeside areas, particularly around Lago Grande, also offer dining options and places to relax.
Can I bring my dog to the Avigliana lakes?
Many trails and areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, especially for walks. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and check specific park regulations for any restricted areas, particularly around protected wildlife habitats.
What kind of wildlife can I observe at the lakes?
The Lakes of Avigliana Natural Park is a haven for wildlife. Small Lake of Avigliana, with its extensive reed beds and woodlands, is particularly noted for birdwatching, providing refuge for various native fish species and over 50 bird species.
Is there parking available near the lakes?
Yes, parking is available near both lakes. For instance, there is a parking lot at the southern end of Small Lake of Avigliana, which also connects to the Lakeside Cycle Path.
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