Cancano Lakes
Breathtaking alpine lakes in Italy's Lombardy region, perfect for cycling, hiking, and photography with stunning mountain backdrops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Cancano Lakes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking alpine lakes in Italy's Lombardy region, perfect for cycling, hiking, and photography with stunning mountain backdrops.
"Amazing place to see with stunning views and emerald green water."
🚴♀️ Cycle the Loop
The loop around the Cancano Lakes is a must-do for cyclists, offering incredible views.
🥾 Hike for Views
Numerous hiking paths cater to all levels, with stunning scenery at every turn.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cancano Lakes Loop
The entire reservoir area
A breathtaking loop perfect for cycling or hiking, offering stunning alpine vistas and emerald waters.
Torri di Fraele
Near the dams
Historic towers offering panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding Valtellina valley.
The Dams
Between Lago di Cancano and Lago di San Giacomo
Impressive engineering marvels that create these beautiful artificial lakes, offering unique perspectives.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Getting Around the Lakes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚴♀️ Cycle the Loop
The loop around the Cancano Lakes is a must-do for cyclists, offering incredible views. 
🥾 Hike for Views
Numerous hiking paths cater to all levels, with stunning scenery at every turn.
🚗 Drive with Caution
Roads can be narrow; drive carefully and be mindful of cyclists and hikers.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the lakes and mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚴♀️ Cycle the Loop
The loop around the Cancano Lakes is a must-do for cyclists, offering incredible views.
🥾 Hike for Views
Numerous hiking paths cater to all levels, with stunning scenery at every turn.
🚗 Drive with Caution
Roads can be narrow; drive carefully and be mindful of cyclists and hikers.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the lakes and mountains.
🍽️ Family Restaurants
Several family-friendly restaurants are available around the lakes for a meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cancano Lakes for their stunning natural beauty, describing the views as amazing and breathtaking. The emerald green water and impressive dams are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While generally positive, some mention that parking can be challenging during peak times.
"Amazing place to see. There is a few family restaurant arounf and a lots hiking paths..."
Kata Livigno
"Beautiful, easy walk of any length. Stunning views. Emerald green water. The dams are very impressive."
Frances Bay
"Good"
GOLCHIN RANGARANG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Bormio, you can drive towards Valdidentro and follow signs for the Cancano Lakes. The drive offers scenic views. Alternatively, many visitors cycle from Bormio or Livigno, enjoying the mountain roads.
Public transport options directly to the lakes are limited. It's best to drive or arrange transport, or consider cycling as a primary mode of transport from nearby towns like Livigno or Bormio.
Yes, you can drive to the Cancano Lakes. However, parking can be challenging during peak season, and the roads are often shared with cyclists.
The most popular ways to explore are by cycling the loop around the lakes or hiking the numerous trails. Driving is also an option, but be mindful of other users.
Yes, the loop around the Cancano Lakes is a well-known cycling route, often starting from Livigno or Bormio. The climb can be challenging but rewarding.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Cancano Lakes themselves. Access to the area is generally free.
The Cancano Lakes area is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may affect road access. There are no set opening or closing hours for the natural landscape.
Parking availability can vary, and while there isn't a universal fee, some areas might have designated parking zones with charges during peak times. It's advisable to check local signage.
While not always advertised, local tourism offices in Bormio or Livigno might offer or recommend guided hiking or cycling tours, especially during peak season.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting. However, always respect the natural environment, stay on marked trails, and be aware of weather conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The loop around the lakes is a popular choice, offering varied terrain. Many other trails lead into the surrounding mountains, providing different levels of difficulty and stunning views.
Yes, the area is great for families. Easy walking paths, impressive dams, and beautiful scenery make it enjoyable. Some restaurants are also family-friendly.
You can enjoy hiking, cycling, trail running, photography, and simply relaxing amidst the beautiful alpine scenery.
Yes, there are a few family restaurants located around the lakes, offering local cuisine.
Expect stunning panoramic mountain views, vibrant emerald-green waters, and impressive dam structures. The scenery is truly breathtaking. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The dams, the winding roads around the lakes, and viewpoints overlooking the entire reservoir offer incredible photo opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly magical.
Drone photography is popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lakes and mountains. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant green of the water is still impressive.
The Torri di Fraele and the impressive dams are iconic landmarks that make for fantastic photographs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details. A drone offers unique aerial shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts
+1 Whether you're road cycling or mountain biking, the area provides varied terrain. Many visitors rent bikes in nearby Livigno or Bormio to tackle the climbs and descents. Be prepared for ascents and descents, and always prioritize safety by wearing a helmet and being aware of other users on the road. 🏞️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
+1 The vivid emerald waters and dramatic mountain peaks provide a constant feast for the eyes. Pack good hiking shoes, plenty of water, and be ready to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the alpine landscape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Cancano Lakes Loop
Cyclists can choose to start from Livigno or Bormio, enjoying spectacular alpine scenery as they ascend. The roads are well-maintained, though they can be narrow and shared with other traffic, so vigilance is key. The panoramic views of the emerald-green lakes and surrounding mountains are a constant companion, making this a truly unforgettable cycling experience. +1Many visitors highlight the sheer beauty of the landscape as the primary draw. The feeling of accomplishment after completing the climb, coupled with the breathtaking vistas, makes the effort worthwhile.
Some suggest that using an e-bike can make the climbs more accessible, allowing more people to enjoy the route. Remember to check weather conditions before you go, as mountain weather can change rapidly.Tips for Cyclists
* Hydration and Snacks: Carry plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks.
* Bike Maintenance: Ensure your bike is in good working order before you start.
* Safety First: Wear a helmet and be aware of your surroundings, especially on descents.
* Best Time: Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures for cycling.
Hiking and Trail Running Adventures
Beyond the main loop, numerous trails ascend into the surrounding Alps, leading to higher viewpoints and more challenging terrain for experienced trekkers. The natural beauty of the area, with its vivid blue waters and dramatic mountain backdrops, makes every step a picturesque experience.Trail runners will find the area particularly appealing, with events like the Energy2Run Cancano race highlighting the area's potential for competitive running.
The varied terrain, from smooth paths to more rugged trails, offers a dynamic and engaging experience for athletes. Runners often praise the unique setting, describing it as a 'fascinating running race in a unique location in the world.' The combination of physical exertion and the awe-inspiring natural environment creates a memorable adventure for anyone looking to explore on foot.Hiking and Running Recommendations
* Trail Variety: Explore beyond the main loop for more challenging and rewarding hikes.
* Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes for comfort and safety.
* Navigation: Carry a map or use a GPS app, especially for less-marked trails.
* Respect Nature: Stay on designated paths to protect the environment.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Cancano Lakes
+1 The impressive dams that form these artificial lakes are also significant photographic subjects, showcasing human engineering against a natural canvas. Many visitors utilize drones to capture unique aerial perspectives, revealing the vastness and beauty of the reservoir and its surroundings from above. +1For the best photographic results, timing is crucial. The 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – bathes the landscape in warm, soft light, enhancing the colors and creating dramatic shadows.
+1 Midday sun can be harsh, but the intense color of the water remains a strong visual element. The Torri di Fraele also provide excellent vantage points for capturing panoramic shots of the lakes and the valley below. Photographers often recommend a wide-angle lens to encompass the grand scale of the scenery, while a drone can offer unparalleled perspectives. +1Photography Tips
* Golden Hour: Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light.
+1* Drone Use: Capture unique aerial views, but be mindful of regulations.
+1* Composition: Include the dams, towers, and winding roads for dynamic shots.
* Weather: Be prepared for changing mountain weather, which can add dramatic skies to your photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit