Alpine Lakes in Alta Val Susa: lakes, mountains and silence
There are places in the mountains that need very little explanation.
A trail through the woods.
A mountain valley.
And, at the end of the walk, a quiet lake reflecting the sky.
The lakes around Alta Val Susa are all different. Some are easy to reach, while others require a proper hike. Some are hidden among the trees, while others lie high above the tree line, surrounded by alpine peaks and open meadows.
That variety makes them perfect for exploring from Oulx.
Lago Borello: Oulx’s little nature reserve
Just outside Oulx lies Lago Borello, also known as the Stagno di Oulx.
It is not the typical high-mountain lake surrounded by huge peaks. Instead, it is a fascinating wetland area with reeds, woodland and a rich variety of wildlife.
It is a lovely place for a quiet walk, nature watching and photography.
A different kind of lake, almost on your doorstep.
Lago Smeraldo: an easy summer break in Oulx
Also in Oulx, Lago Smeraldo offers a completely different experience.
It is a green outdoor area designed for relaxing, picnics and barbecues, with activities and summer events.
It is particularly convenient for families or for anyone who wants a day outdoors without a long hike.
Lago Verde: the little gem of Valle Stretta
Lago Verde is one of the most attractive lakes near Bardonecchia.
At around 1,834 metres, it lies in a small hollow surrounded by conifers. Its green waters and peaceful woodland setting make it feel almost like a hidden alpine gem.
The walk from Grange di Valle Stretta is relatively easy, with around 4 km and 150 metres of elevation gain on the circular route described by Bardonecchia’s tourism information.
A perfect place to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
Lago Orfù: a family-friendly lake near Oulx
At around 1,060 metres in the hamlet of Gad, Lago Orfù is one of the easiest lakes to enjoy with children.
The area has picnic spaces, outdoor activities and a small playground, and it is close to the Sentiero dei Franchi trail.
You don’t need a serious hiking plan.
Just come outdoors, enjoy the fresh mountain air and spend some time together.
Lago Laune: a lake in the Gran Bosco
At around 2,043 metres, Lago Laune lies inside the Gran Bosco di Salbertrand Natural Park.
Surrounded by conifer forests, it is a peaceful mountain lake set in a particularly beautiful landscape. The nearby Alpe Laune also offers a glimpse into the traditional alpine farming culture of the area.
Different routes can be used to reach the lake, including trails from the Monfol area.
Here, the lake is only part of the experience.
The whole Gran Bosco is worth discovering.
Lago dei Sette Colori: the lake of changing colours
Lago dei Sette Colori, also known as Lago di Gignoux, is one of the most spectacular lakes in the area.
At 2,329 metres, it lies between the Saurel and Gimont mountains, in a grassy alpine basin overlooking the surrounding peaks and the French side of the Alps.
Its name comes from the changing shades of its water, from deep blue to green, depending on the light and conditions.
There are several hiking routes, including approaches from Claviere and the Capanna Mautino area.
For hikers and photographers, this is one of those places that stays in your memory.
Lago di Rochemolles: water and high mountains
Above Bardonecchia, the Rochemolles Valley leads into one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes around Alta Val Susa.
The lake is an artificial reservoir created by the Rochemolles dam, surrounded by mountains rising above 3,000 metres.
From here the road continues towards Rifugio Scarfiotti and the Sommeiller Pass, gradually entering a true high-alpine environment.
The lake is just the beginning: waterfalls, pastures, rocky peaks and wide-open mountain scenery continue far beyond it.
Lago Nero: the dark lake of the Monti della Luna
At over 2,000 metres, near Bousson and the Monti della Luna, lies Lago Nero.
Its dark waters contrast beautifully with the larch trees and mountains around it. The lake sits below Col Saurel and can be reached by several routes from the Cesana and Claviere area.
In autumn, golden larches surround the dark water, creating one of the most beautiful colour combinations in the valley.
Eight lakes, eight different experiences
The beauty of the lakes around Alta Val Susa is that there is no single way to experience them.
A nature walk at Lago Borello.
A family day at Lago Orfù.
A gentle hike to Lago Verde.
A proper mountain walk to Lago dei Sette Colori.
A forest adventure towards Lago Laune.
Or a high-mountain journey through Rochemolles and Lago Nero.
Every lake tells a different story.
And often the best part isn’t reaching the lake.
It is everything you discover along the way.
Summer is lake season
Summer is the perfect time to explore the alpine lakes.
The days are long, higher trails are more accessible and the light brings out the colours of the water and mountains.
But there is no need to rush.
One day can be a proper hike.
Another can be a gentle walk.
Another can simply be about photography and enjoying the silence.
Because in the mountains, sometimes sitting beside a lake and listening to nothing is enough.
From La Maison du Coeur
Oulx is a great base for discovering the lakes of Alta Val Susa.
You can choose a different experience every day without changing accommodation.
A nearby lake. A high-altitude hike. A forest. A family day outdoors.
Then back home in the evening.
Discover La Maison du Coeur and explore Alta Val Susa from Oulx.