Lago di Cignana
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Lago di Cignana

4.7
·87 reviews·, Italy

A breathtaking artificial lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue waters and dramatic alpine setting, guarded by a charming chapel.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, best light

CrowdMedium
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Lago di Cignana

Lago di Cignana

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, best light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking artificial lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue waters and dramatic alpine setting, guarded by a charming chapel.

4.7
(87 reviews)

"A beautiful artificial lake in a stunning setting, accessible via scenic trails that reward with spectacular views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Choose Your Trail Wisely

Options from Torgnon (long dirt road), Fontanaz (scenic trail), or Crepin (via Cignana window). Each offers unique views! :hiking_boot:

Prepare for Wind

The area can be windy, even on clear days. Bring layers to stay comfortable. :windblowingface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Azure Waters

The Azure Waters

The lake itself

A stunning artificial lake with vibrant blue waters, nestled in a breathtaking mountain valley.

Madonna delle Nevi Chapel

Madonna delle Nevi Chapel

Lakeside

A picturesque chapel standing guard over the lake, adding a serene and iconic landmark.

Cignana Window View

Cignana Window View

Above the lake

Spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the Matterhorn from this vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit Lago di Cignana

Visit during summer for optimal hiking conditions and clear views. Avoid late autumn or early spring when trails can be icy or snow-covered. Check weather forecasts as mountain conditions can change rapidly.

Getting to Lago di Cignana

Access varies: a long dirt road from Torgnon (consider a bike with assistance), a scenic trail from Fontanaz, or via Cignana window from Crepin. Hiking is rewarded with spectacular views.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clear skies, best light
Crowd
Medium
When
Late summer afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, fall colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🤍 Lago Blu #valtournenche #somewhereinnorthernitaly #lake #bluelake #summervibes #mountains #valledaosta #breuilcervinia #summerbreeze
@chiara.fsro
77.3K likes • 480.7K views

Choose Your Trail Wisely

Options from Torgnon (long dirt road), Fontanaz (scenic trail), or Crepin (via Cignana window). Each offers unique views! :hiking_boot:

Prepare for Wind

The area can be windy, even on clear days. Bring layers to stay comfortable. :windblowingface:

Il Lago di Cignana è un’ottima meta per una gita in giornata. Ci sei mai stato? ❤️ #valledaosta #aostavalley #lovevda #valledaoste #montagnachepassione #laghidimontagna #alps #gitainmontagna 📷 @roby_aroundtheworld
valledaosta
2.2K likes • 44.8K views
Lago di Cignana📍🏔️ Ma questo posto spettacolare?🍁🏔️🍂 . . . #valledaosta #view #djimini3 #mountain #rifugiobarmasse #vda #lagodicignana🏞 #snow #cinematicvideo
mountains.peaks
17 likes • 258 views

Consider a Bike

The dirt road from Torgnon is long but manageable with a pedal-assist e-bike. :mountain_bicyclist:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal with a view! Some suggest stopping at a Rifugio for lunch too. :sandwich:

Sei già stato in uno di questi posti? 🔹Lago di Cignana e Finestra di Cignana 🔹Lago del Miage e Rifugio Elisabetta Soldini 🔹Colle del Gran San Bernardo e Lacs de Fenêtre 🔹Rifugio Barbustel e Lago Bianco 🔹Laghi Palasinaz Quale ti ispira di più? • • • • #hikingideas #trekkingitalia #scattovalledaosta #valledaostaimmaginiemozioni #valledaostanelcuore #valledaosta_photogroup #valledaosta_cartoli...
roby_aroundtheworld
1.4K likes • 72.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Choose Your Trail Wisely

Options from Torgnon (long dirt road), Fontanaz (scenic trail), or Crepin (via Cignana window). Each offers unique views! :hiking_boot:

Prepare for Wind

The area can be windy, even on clear days. Bring layers to stay comfortable. :windblowingface:

Consider a Bike

The dirt road from Torgnon is long but manageable with a pedal-assist e-bike. :mountain_bicyclist:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal with a view! Some suggest stopping at a Rifugio for lunch too. :sandwich:

Don't Miss the Chapel

The Madonna delle Nevi chapel is a beautiful, serene spot right by the lake. :church:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(87 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Lago di Cignana's stunning artificial blue waters and dramatic mountain setting, calling it a must-see for nature lovers. The scenic trails, including the rewarding Cignana window route, are highly praised, though some note the long dirt road access. The serene atmosphere and picturesque chapel add to its charm.

"For those who love nature and the mountains, a place to admire in silence, filling the soul with such beauty...❤️VDA"

Giorgio Lissoni

"A beautiful artificial lake in a stunning setting, accessible from Torgnon via a very long dirt road, or from the hamlet of Fontanaz via a beautiful trail that leads beneath the dam, or from the hamlet of Crepin through the Cignana window. A must-see for the stunning views."

luciano aimone

"Wonderful place, the path to get there is a bit challenging, I chose to do the one passing through the Cignana window, but once you get to the Cignana window all the effort is rewarded, spectacular view of the lake and also of Mount Matterhorn. I will be back!"

Iulian Trifan

What People Like

Stunning blue waters
Spectacular mountain views
Scenic hiking trails

What People Dislike

Long dirt road access
Can be windy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You have several options! From Torgnon, there's a long dirt road, best suited for bikes (especially e-bikes).Reddit Alternatively, a beautiful trail starts from Fontanaz, leading you beneath the dam.Reddit Another route is from Crepin, passing through the Cignana window for spectacular views.InstagramReddit

While a dirt road exists from Torgnon, it's very long and not ideal for standard cars. Many visitors opt for hiking or cycling to reach the lake.Reddit

The trail via the Cignana window is highly recommended for its rewarding views of the lake and the Matterhorn.Reddit The path from Fontanaz is also praised for its scenic beauty.Reddit

Yes, you can reach it from Valtournenche, arriving from below near the dam. It's not visible until the very last moment.Reddit

Yes, Rifugio Barmasse and Rifugio Perucca-Vuilliermoz are mentioned as being in the vicinity or accessible from routes leading to the lake.Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to visit Lago di Cignana. It's a natural attraction accessible to all.

Lago di Cignana is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round. However, hiking trails may be affected by weather conditions in winter.

No, tickets are not required as it's a natural site. However, if you plan to stay at a nearby refuge, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Swimming is generally not advised in artificial mountain lakes like Lago di Cignana due to cold temperatures and potential safety concerns. It's best enjoyed for its scenic beauty.

As a natural area, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Pack out what you pack in and stay on marked trails where applicable.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire area offers stunning photographic opportunities. Key spots include the lakeside with the Madonna delle Nevi chapel,Instagram the panoramic views from the Cignana window,Reddit and the vibrant blue waters themselves.TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can be particularly magical.Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain peaks like the Matterhorn. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing the blue of the water.Instagram

The reflection of the mountains in the lake on a calm day is a classic shot. The contrast between the blue water, green slopes, and the chapel is also very photogenic.Instagram

🎫 🥾 Hiking & Activities

There are various hiking options, from moderate trails to more challenging routes. Many visitors enjoy day hikes that incorporate the lake and surrounding peaks.Instagram+1

Hiking times vary greatly depending on the starting point and your pace. A 6-hour round trip is mentioned for a route from Cervinia.Instagram Other routes might be shorter or longer.

Some trails, like the one from Fontanaz, are described as beautiful and potentially manageable for families. However, always assess trail difficulty based on your children's age and experience.Reddit

The area is rich with lakes! Nearby options include Lago del Miage, Lago del Monte Dragone, Grande Lago, and Lago di Balanselmo, often visited on longer treks.Instagram+1

Yes, the dirt road from Torgnon is a popular route for cyclists, especially those with electric bikes due to its length.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lago di Cignana can be a rewarding destination for families, though careful planning is key. The trail from Fontanaz is described as beautiful and potentially manageable for families, offering a scenic approach to the lake.Reddit Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The visual spectacle of the blue lake and the surrounding mountains is sure to captivate younger visitors. Ensure children stay on marked paths and are supervised, especially near the water's edge.

🚴 Cyclists

The long dirt road from Torgnon presents a unique cycling challenge and opportunity. While it can be a strenuous ride, many find it manageable and enjoyable with a pedal-assist electric bike.Reddit This route allows cyclists to cover more ground and experience the ascent at their own pace, enjoying the changing scenery as they climb towards the lake. Remember to check your bike's condition and carry necessary repair tools.

🚶 Hikers & Trekkers

For hikers, Lago di Cignana is a dream destination with multiple trail options. The route via the Cignana window is particularly lauded for its breathtaking views, making the effort worthwhile.Reddit Consider longer treks that link multiple lakes, such as Lago del Miage and Lago del Monte Dragone, for a more immersive experience.Instagram Always check trail conditions, wear appropriate footwear, and carry sufficient water and provisions for your hike.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artificial Nature of Lago di Cignana

Lago di Cignana is not a natural lake but an artificial basin created by a dam. This engineering feat has transformed the landscape, creating a stunning reservoir that reflects the surrounding alpine beauty. The dam itself is a significant structure, and arriving from below, as some routes do, means you encounter it first before the vast expanse of water unfolds.InstagramReddit The creation of this lake has made the area accessible and visually striking, though it's important to appreciate its man-made origins.

Despite being artificial, the lake has become an integral part of the Valtournenche scenery. Its vibrant blue color, often described as 'blu' or 'azure', is a major draw for visitors.TikTok The surrounding mountains, including views towards the Matterhorn from certain vantage points, enhance its picturesque quality. It's a testament to how human intervention can sometimes create breathtaking natural-looking landscapes.

Many visitors enjoy the scenic beauty and the opportunity for relaxation it offers, even with the wind that can sometimes blow through the valley.Reddit The presence of the Madonna delle Nevi chapel adds a unique spiritual and visual element to the lakeside experience.Instagram

Navigating the Trails to Cignana

Reaching Lago di Cignana involves a choice of trails, each offering a different experience. The route from Torgnon via a long dirt road is a popular option for cyclists, particularly those with electric bikes, as it can be quite lengthy on foot.Reddit This path provides a gradual ascent and different perspectives of the valley.

For hikers seeking a more traditional mountain trail, the path from Fontanaz is highly recommended. This route leads you beneath the dam, offering a dramatic approach to the lake and is described as beautiful and scenic.Reddit It's a great option for those who enjoy a more immersive hiking experience.

Another highly praised route is via the Cignana window (Finestra di Cignana), accessible from Crepin. This path is noted for its challenging but incredibly rewarding effort, culminating in spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the iconic Matterhorn.InstagramReddit This option is ideal for hikers looking for breathtaking vistas and a sense of accomplishment.

Beyond the Lake: Rifugios and Peaks

While Lago di Cignana is a primary destination, the surrounding area offers further exploration, including charming mountain refuges (rifugios) and challenging peaks. Rifugio Barmasse and Rifugio Perucca-Vuilliermoz are frequently mentioned in connection with hikes in the region, serving as potential stops for rest, refreshments, or even overnight stays.Instagram+1 These refuges are often nestled in stunning locations, offering a true alpine experience.

For the more adventurous, the area provides opportunities to ascend nearby peaks. The trek to Monte Rous is mentioned, indicating the potential for more strenuous hikes with rewarding summit views.Instagram These higher-altitude excursions offer a different perspective on the landscape, with expansive panoramas of the valleys and surrounding mountain ranges.

Many visitors combine a visit to Lago di Cignana with exploring other nearby alpine lakes, such as Lago del Miage, Lago del Monte Dragone, and Grande Lago, creating multi-day trekking itineraries.Instagram+1 This makes Lago di Cignana a fantastic base or waypoint for a more comprehensive exploration of the Valtournenche region.

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