Best lakes around Teglio offer a range of natural beauty and recreational opportunities within the picturesque Valtellina region. Teglio serves as a gateway to several lakes, some directly accessible and others requiring a hike, even extending into Swiss territory. The area is characterized by alpine landscapes and towering mountains, providing diverse natural settings for exploration.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
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Mountain Hikes around Teglio
A place of haunting beauty, steeped in history and memories. Walking at the foot of the Gleno Dam is a deeply moving experience. In my video, I recount the history and emotion of this place. Watch it for the full adventure: https://youtu.be/xOmoTKIHDm0
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wonderful place but better to avoid crowded periods
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Beautiful refuge immersed in nature. Impossible not to stop after the hard climb pedaled😉
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Leckeres Essen. Auch für eine Übernachtung geeignet wenn das Gemeinschaftsbad nicht stört.
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fantastic place, beautiful valley from which excursions on foot and also by mountain bike (not easy) start.
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I visited Gleno lake a few years ago and I have to say that the trip was worth all its time! In addition to the beautiful natural setting, the history that the Gleno dam contains (a human failure) must be passed on to future generations so that it never happens again.
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Lake Coca is a small alpine lake that deserves to be seen. Just a 30 minute flat walk from Rifugio Coca Merelli.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the historical significance of Gleno Dam and Lake, which offers a route through a forest leading to the dam's ruins. Another favorite is Barbellino Reservoir, an artificial lake in the Orobie Mountains known for its 'Sword in the stone' feature. Coca Lake, an alpine lake nestled in the Giant's basin, is also highly rated by the community.
Yes, the Gleno Dam and Lake is a site of significant historical importance. The ruins of the dam serve as a monument and a warning, preserving the memory of a past undertaking and disaster. The dam itself was built between 1916 and 1923 and its collapse in 1923 caused a major tragedy.
The lakes around Teglio are set amidst stunning alpine landscapes. You can expect to see towering mountains, often over 3,000 meters, surrounding lakes like the Barbellino Reservoir. Many are alpine lakes, like Coca Lake, enclosed within natural basins. The region also features forests, green pastures, and panoramic views of the Valtellina and Orobie mountain range.
While many routes to alpine lakes can be challenging, some areas offer more accessible sections. For example, the initial part of the climb to Gleno Dam and Lake is through a medium-dense forest with mostly passable ground. The Vivione Pass, which offers access to Lake Barbellino, is also listed as family-friendly in some sections. Always check specific route details for suitability.
The region around Teglio's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For example, explore the 'Orobic hills – loop tour in the Parco delle Orobie Valtellinesi' for road cycling or the 'Bartesaghi Park – Ponte del Baghetto loop' for mountain biking. You can find more details and routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Teglio and MTB Trails around Teglio guides.
Yes, Teglio is a great starting point for alpine lake hikes. You can hike to destinations like Lake Regina (Lago della Regina), which is in Swiss territory but accessible from the Italian side near Alpe Teglio, often with the option to shorten the hike using a chairlift in summer. The Laghi di Torena and Lago Lavazza in the Parco delle Orobie Valtellinesi also offer scenic alpine lake views via various loop trails.
Yes, Somasassa Lake, located within the Ca' Branchi ward, is particularly known for sport fishing. Its clear waters and green banks provide a tranquil setting. Anglers can find equipment hire services and even participate in activities like night fishing or competitions, with an outdoor picnic area available for barbecues.
The best time to visit the alpine lakes for hiking is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and chairlifts (if available) are operational. Passes like Vivione Pass are usually closed from October to April due to snow. This period offers the most favorable conditions for exploring the high-altitude lakes and enjoying the panoramic views.
Yes, the Barbellino Reservoir is recognized for a unique feature: a 'Sword in the stone' found along its banks, adding a touch of mystique to the majestic mountain scenery. The area also features the natural Lake Barbellino further upstream.
For more challenging hikes, consider continuing past Gleno Dam and Lake towards the Belviso Pass, which offers increasing panoramic vistas. The Vivione Pass also serves as a starting point for demanding excursions to Lake Barbellino (the natural one) and Mount Vivione. Routes to alpine lakes like Lago della Regina and Lago dal Mat, especially without chairlift assistance, also present rewarding challenges.
While specific cafes or restaurants directly at every lake are not guaranteed, the Vivione Pass, a gateway to some lake areas, has a refuge with a kitchen and bar at its summit. For broader options, Teglio and surrounding towns offer various accommodations and dining choices. It's advisable to carry provisions for longer hikes to more remote lakes.


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