Top 12 Lakes around 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.