Lago di Maen - Image 1
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Lago di Maen

4.5
·189 reviews·, Italy

A stunning man-made lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue-green waters and picturesque picnic area.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Lago di Maen - Image 1

Lago di Maen

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning man-made lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue-green waters and picturesque picnic area.

4.5
(189 reviews)

"A lovely spot to stop for a picnic or to lie down in the shade of a few trees."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.

🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast

The picnic area is excellent! Bring your own food and enjoy the stunning views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Azure Waters

The Azure Waters

Lago di Maen

A stunning man-made lake with vibrant blue and green hues, reflecting the surrounding peaks.

Family-Friendly Picnic Area

Family-Friendly Picnic Area

Lakeside

Equipped with tables, benches, and a playground, it's perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Scenic Lakeside Stroll

Scenic Lakeside Stroll

Around the lake

An easy, flat path perfect for a leisurely walk with beautiful mountain vistas.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Lago di Maen is a popular spot, especially for picnics. To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Weekends can get busy with families enjoying the picnic areas and playground.

Picnic Paradise & Parking Pointers

This man-made lake boasts a fantastic picnic area with tables and benches. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can be limited. It's a great spot for a relaxed lunch amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm weather for picnics
Crowd
Medium

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

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast

The picnic area is excellent! Bring your own food and enjoy the stunning views. Reddit

Lago di Maen . . . #lagodimaen #valtournenche #aostavalley #aosta #lago #maen #matterhorn #zermatt #cervinia #valley #geofoodietours #geofoodie
vijay.charan.v
27 likes • 313 views
Там, де відпочиває душа 🏔️🩵🏔️ #tatalatanza #alpi #alps #cervinia #valtournenche #cervino #lagodimaen #flaminipatisserieebistrot #lifeisbeautiful
tata.latanza
7 likes • 67 views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk

The path around the lake is flat and easy, perfect for all ages. TikTokReddit

🎣 Fishing Reserve Alert

Note that this is a fishing reserve; check local regulations if you plan to fish. Reddit

📍Lago di Maen 😎☀️ #lagodimaen #lake #italy #nature #italia #travel #landscape #mountains #naturephotography #natura #sky #instagood #summer #relax #sun #igersitalia #beautiful #photo #montagna #mountain #water #valledaosta
_i.m_francy_
80 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic Feast

The picnic area is excellent! Bring your own food and enjoy the stunning views. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk

The path around the lake is flat and easy, perfect for all ages. TikTokReddit

🎣 Fishing Reserve Alert

Note that this is a fishing reserve; check local regulations if you plan to fish. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant blue and green waters make for stunning photos. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(189 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Lago di Maen's stunning, vibrant blue and green waters and its well-equipped, family-friendly picnic area. It's praised as a lovely, relaxing spot with easy walking paths and beautiful mountain views. The main drawback mentioned is limited parking, particularly on weekends.

"amazing place. amazing view"

Juan Manuel Roo

"A lovely spot to stop for a picnic or to lie down in the shade of a few trees. The area is equipped with benches and tables. Next to the picnic area is a play area for children. This is a fishing reserve."

Stefania De Francesco

"A lovely place to relax in the shade, with tables and benches available, and the option to spread out your picnic towel! The only drawback is limited parking."

Alessio Monica

What People Like

Beautiful blue-green water
Excellent picnic area
Scenic mountain views

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lago di Maen is located in Valtournenche, Aosta Valley, along the SR46 road leading to Cervinia. It's easily accessible by car, with designated parking areas available. Instagram

Yes, Lago di Maen is just a few kilometers from the popular ski resort town of Cervinia, making it a convenient stop on your way. Instagram

While primarily accessed by car, local buses serving the Valtournenche valley might stop nearby. It's best to check current bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

The road (SR46) is generally well-maintained and scenic, winding through the beautiful Valtournenche valley. Instagram

You can typically find it by searching for 'Lago di Maen, Valtournenche, Italy' on your GPS device or mapping app. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Lago di Maen is a free-access area. You can enjoy the lake and its amenities without any admission charge. Instagram

Lago di Maen is an outdoor natural attraction, so it's accessible at all times. However, amenities like picnic areas are best enjoyed during daylight hours. Instagram

Since there is no entrance fee, no advance booking is required to visit Lago di Maen. Instagram

To experience the most tranquil atmosphere, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends and peak summer afternoons tend to be busier with families. Reddit

As a fishing reserve, there might be specific regulations for fishing. Otherwise, general park rules apply. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy picnicking in the well-equipped area, taking a leisurely stroll around the lake, photography, and simply relaxing amidst nature. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a dedicated play area for children located near the picnic facilities, making it a great spot for families. Reddit

Swimming is generally not advised or permitted in Lago di Maen, as it is a man-made lake and a fishing reserve. Reddit

The lake offers a large picnic area with tables and benches, and a children's playground. Restrooms may be available seasonally. Reddit

The path around the lake is described as flat and easy, suggesting it is likely accessible for strollers and potentially wheelchairs, though surface conditions can vary. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Lago di Maen. It's primarily a picnic spot, so bringing your own food is recommended. Reddit

Anything you like! Sandwiches, salads, local cheeses, fruits, and pastries are all great picnic options to enjoy by the lake. Instagram

You can find shops and restaurants in the nearby town of Cervinia or other villages along the Valtournenche valley before reaching the lake. Instagram

While there are picnic tables, dedicated barbecue facilities are not explicitly mentioned. It's best to check local regulations or stick to cold food for picnics. Reddit

Spread out a towel on the grass or use the provided tables and benches for a delightful picnic experience surrounded by nature. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant blue and green waters of the lake itself are the main attraction. Capture reflections of the surrounding mountains and the sky. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's colors. Instagram

Look for the interplay of light on the water, the textures of the surrounding mountains, and the reflections on a calm day. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lago di Maen is a fantastic stop for families! The dedicated children's playground ensures little ones have plenty of fun, while the spacious picnic area with tables and benches makes mealtime easy and enjoyable. The flat, easy path around the lake is perfect for a gentle stroll with strollers or for kids to burn off some energy. It's a safe and scenic spot for a relaxed family outing. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no food services on-site. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a good picnic spot and parking. The vibrant colors of the lake also provide a visually engaging experience for children. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those exploring the Valtournenche valley, Lago di Maen offers a beautiful and accessible natural pause. The easy, flat walking path around the lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to fully appreciate the alpine scenery and the striking colors of the water. It's a great spot for photography, with the mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. Instagram+1

While not a strenuous hike, it's a lovely place to connect with nature. The area is a fishing reserve, so if you're interested in angling, be sure to check local regulations beforehand. The tranquility of the lake, especially outside of peak hours, makes it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying the mountain air. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers and Road-Trippers

Lago di Maen is an ideal roadside attraction for anyone traveling along the SR46 towards Cervinia. It offers a perfect opportunity to break up your journey, stretch your legs, and enjoy a scenic view. The well-equipped picnic area makes it easy to enjoy a packed lunch without needing to find a restaurant. Instagram

Its proximity to Cervinia means you can easily incorporate a visit into a day trip exploring the Aosta Valley. The lake's vibrant colors and the surrounding mountain landscape provide excellent photo opportunities, making it a memorable stop on your itinerary. Just be mindful of parking, especially during busy periods. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Man-Made Beauty

Lago di Maen is a fascinating example of a man-made lake that has become a natural attraction. Its vibrant blue and green waters are a result of its composition and the surrounding mineral-rich environment. The lake serves as a picturesque stop along the scenic route to Cervinia, offering a tranquil respite for travelers. Its creation has transformed the landscape, providing a unique visual appeal that draws visitors seeking natural beauty and relaxation. Instagram

Despite being artificial, the lake seamlessly blends into the alpine scenery. The surrounding high mountains create a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the visual appeal of the water. This juxtaposition of human engineering and natural grandeur makes Lago di Maen a compelling destination for photographers and nature lovers alike. The easy accessibility and the serene atmosphere contribute to its popularity as a picnic spot and a place for quiet contemplation. Instagram+1

Visitors often remark on the striking colors of the water, which can vary depending on the light and atmospheric conditions. This dynamic quality adds to the lake's allure, making each visit potentially unique. The presence of a children's play area and picnic facilities further enhances its appeal as a family-friendly destination, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy its beauty. Reddit

Picnicking and Relaxation by the Lake

The picnic area at Lago di Maen is a significant draw for visitors, offering a well-equipped space to enjoy a meal amidst stunning alpine scenery. With numerous tables and benches, it's an ideal spot for families and groups to gather. The availability of these amenities transforms a simple stop into a delightful experience, allowing people to truly unwind and soak in the surroundings. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the joy of spreading out a picnic towel on the grass or utilizing the provided seating. This relaxed approach to dining is perfectly complemented by the tranquil environment. The lake's easy accessibility and the relatively flat terrain make it convenient for carrying picnic supplies. It's a place where you can enjoy good food and good company with a breathtaking view as your backdrop. InstagramReddit

While the picnic area is a major plus, it's worth noting that parking can be a challenge, especially during peak times. Planning your visit for weekdays or early mornings can help you secure a spot more easily. The effort is well worth it for the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful picnic by the vibrant waters of Lago di Maen. Reddit

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