Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses
Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses
Highlight • Lake
Cheggio Dam and Lake of the Horses
Hiking
5.0
(73)
The Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli, also known as Lago di Cheggio or Lago Alpe dei Cavalli, is a stunning artificial lake nestled at an elevation of 1490 meters in the heart of Valle Antrona, within the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola in Piedmont, Italy. This captivating body of water, fed by the Loranco stream, is a prominent feature of the Valle Antrona Natural Park and is renowned for its vibrant turquoise color, a result of glacial sediments. The impressive Diga di Cheggio, a dry-laid stone gravity dam built between 1922 and 1926, forms the lake, which was historically a plain used for grazing pack animals, giving rise to its name, "Lake of the Horses."
Visitors are consistently drawn to the breathtaking beauty of Lago dei Cavalli, particularly its intense, ever-changing turquoise hue that mirrors the sky on clear days. The ease of access and the picturesque surroundings make it a favorite for nature lovers and families alike. Many hikers praise the well-maintained trails and the serene atmosphere, highlighting the feeling of escaping into a natural paradise surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation.
Before setting out, it's wise to consider the seasonal conditions. While the area is generally accessible, early May can still present significant snow cover, making some trails challenging and requiring appropriate footwear and gear. The final stretch of road to Alpe Cheggio and the dam can be narrow and winding, so careful driving is advised. Parking near Diga di Cheggio lake is available, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
The best time to visit Lago dei Cavalli is typically from late spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and the trails are clear. The area offers a variety of activities, with hiking being the most popular. A circular walk around Diga di Cheggio is a favorite, providing spectacular views. More challenging treks, such as the ascent to Rifugio Andolla, are also available for experienced hikers.
A highly recommended route is the approximately 8-kilometer loop around Lago dei Cavalli. This circular walk typically takes about three and a half hours to complete at a moderate pace, offering continuous scenic vistas. While signs may suggest an anticlockwise direction, some hikers find the clockwise route more enjoyable, allowing for different perspectives of the lake and the surrounding landscape. This trail is considered intermediate in difficulty, making it suitable for most active individuals.
Hikers often share vivid memories of spotting local wildlife, including marmots, ibex, and even eagles, adding to the natural allure of the Valle Antrona. The changing colors of autumn create a particularly magical experience, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry. After a day of exploration, the nearby Rifugio Città di Novara at Alpe Cheggio provides a welcoming spot to rest and enjoy typical Val d'Ossola dishes.
Whether you're looking for easy walks near Lago dei Cavalli for beginners or more challenging Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli lake trails, there are numerous options to explore. You can discover a wide array of hiking and walking routes around this beautiful lake and the Alpe Cheggio area using komoot's route planner, ensuring you find the perfect adventure for your skill level and interests.
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June 28, 2021
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Details
Informations
Elevation 1,360 m
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Saturday 13 June
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Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli to avoid snow?
While the area is generally accessible, early May can still present significant snow cover, making some trails challenging. For clear trails and milder weather, the best time to visit is typically from late spring through autumn. Autumn also offers particularly magical colors.
How long does it take to hike around Lago dei Cavalli?
A popular circular walk around Lago dei Cavalli is approximately 8 kilometers long. This route typically takes about three and a half hours to complete at a moderate pace, offering continuous scenic vistas.
Is the Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli area suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, the area is considered very family-friendly. The ease of access, allowing visitors to park near the lake and stroll along a flat path, makes it suitable for many, including families with strollers. There are easy walks near Lago dei Cavalli perfect for beginners and young children.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Lago dei Cavalli?
The Valle Antrona Natural Park generally welcomes dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the presence of wildlife like marmots, ibex, and eagles. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Where can I find parking near Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli?
Parking is available near Diga di Cheggio lake, making it convenient for those arriving by car. However, parking spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or on weekends. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
What is the difficulty level of the hiking trails around Lago dei Cavalli?
The main 8-kilometer loop around Lago dei Cavalli is considered intermediate in difficulty, suitable for most active individuals. More challenging treks, such as the approximately 2.5-hour ascent to the Rifugio Andolla (at 2061 meters), are also available for experienced hikers.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options near Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli?
Yes, after a day of exploration, the nearby Rifugio Città di Novara at Alpe Cheggio provides a welcoming spot to rest, enjoy typical Val d'Ossola dishes, or even stay overnight. There are also other amenities in the broader Valle Antrona area.
What are the best viewpoints around Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli?
The entire loop around the lake offers spectacular views, with the vibrant turquoise color of the water being a constant highlight. Many hikers find that walking the loop in a clockwise direction offers unique perspectives of the lake and the surrounding mountains, especially the impressive Diga di Cheggio itself.
Is wild swimming permitted in Lago dei Cavalli?
While the lake's stunning turquoise waters may be inviting, it is an artificial lake within a protected natural park. It's important to check local regulations regarding swimming, as wild swimming may be restricted to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety. The lake's waters are also used for hydroelectric purposes.
What should I wear for hiking around Diga di Cheggio e Lago dei Cavalli?
Given the varying terrain and potential for changing weather, especially in the mountains, it's recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots. Layers of clothing are advisable, allowing you to adjust to temperature changes. In early spring, be prepared for snow and potentially muddy conditions.
What is the historical significance of the Diga di Cheggio?
The Diga di Cheggio (Alpe Cavalli dam) is a significant historical feature, constructed between 1922 and 1926. It is a gravity-type dam, 33 meters high and 163 meters long, built from dry-laid stone. Its construction transformed the ancient glacial lake basin, which was once a plain used for grazing pack animals, giving the lake its name, 'Lago dei Cavalli' (Lake of the Horses).