Best lakes around Mosso are found within the Biellese Prealps and the broader Piedmont region of Italy. This area, historically part of the Province of Biella, features a diverse natural landscape with various lakes. Visitors can explore high-altitude glacial lakes and more accessible bodies of water. The region provides opportunities for hiking and appreciating alpine flora.
Last updated: March 26, 2026
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At 2020 meters, Lake Barma (or Balma) is a lake of glacial origin sunken between the Gragliasca peak, Lei Long and Balma d’Oropa on the left, Mont Mars and Monte Rosso on the right, and the Balma d’Oropa hill in front. With 31,320 square meters of extension, it is the largest lake included in the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. On its shores, from the second half of June, rhododendrons, mountain lilies, round cotton grasses, mountain arnica and wild orchids bloom.
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Very modern and comfortable refuge. Equipped with 24h electricity, wi-fi, hot water. The refuge is also a stop for the Oropa Valley walk. The Barma refuge is located at an altitude of 2060 meters in the Mont Mars nature reserve, located between the Biella area and the Lys Valley in the Aosta Valley. The stone structure is built around the roche moutonne in the center of an amphitheater overlooking the lakes of the same name at the foot of the Mont Mars massif (2600 m). The refuge is recently built and has a large bar, two dining rooms, eight rooms, five of which seat 8, two seat 4 and a double with bathroom. The services are shared. The structure is equipped with solar panels for the production of electricity, integrated with a co-generator system. The water is collected from the depths of the lake and treated with a water purifier so as to avoid the use of packaging to be disposed of.
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The Rifugio Lago della Vecchia is located in the Biella Alps, at 1,872 meters above sea level, near the lake of the same name. It offers typical Piedmontese cuisine and the possibility of overnight stays with 22 beds. It opens in the summer season but for more information, visit the website: rifugiolagodellavecchia.it
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waterfalls of the Oropa stream on the path to Mucrone
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Recently built refuge surrounded by the Barma lakes, open in the summer and reachable with a not too demanding walk from Pillaz (or from Pian Coumarial) a hamlet of Fontainemore, overcoming a long stretch of road up to Lake Vargno
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Between the sanctuary of Oropa and the Rosazza refuge, at this point you can see a small but pretty waterfall of the Oropa stream. The water flows between several boulders to create a truly remarkable play of colors and reflections.
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Convenient road from the sanctuary, beautiful to look at and cool to rinse off
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This beautiful lake is located at the foot of the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. From its banks Punta Leretta, Punta Figlieu, Mount Mars, Mount Rosso, the Lei Long and Gragliasca peaks and Mount Pietra Bianca are visible. It's a nice place to take a break on your mountain run with a breathtaking view. The paths in this area are mostly free of technical difficulties and easy to follow while running.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the area around Rifugio della Balma, a modern refuge set on a promontory with two lakes at its foot within the Mont Mars Nature Reserve. Another favorite is Lake Vargno, known for its scenic views of prominent peaks. The Lago della Vecchia Hut, located near its namesake lake at 1,872 meters, is also very popular for its typical Piedmontese cuisine and accommodation.
Yes, the Mosso region, particularly within the Biellese Prealps, is home to several high-altitude glacial lakes. For example, Lake Barma (or Balma), located at 2020 meters within the Mont Mars Nature Reserve, is a significant glacial lake known for its vibrant alpine flora.
The lakes around Mosso offer stunning natural beauty. At high-altitude lakes like Lake Barma, you can find vibrant flora such as rhododendrons, mountain lilies, cotton grasses, mountain arnica, and wild orchids, especially in late spring and summer. Many lakes, including Lake Vargno, provide breathtaking views of surrounding peaks like Punta Leretta and Mount Mars.
The area around Mosso's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including challenging mountain hikes like the Monte Camino – Rifugio Rosazza loop or the Lago della Vecchia – Rifugio Lago della Vecchia loop. There are also running trails, such as the Waterfall on the Trail loop, and cycling routes like the Brughiera Sanctuary loop. You can explore these and more on the dedicated guides for Mountain Hikes around Mosso, Running Trails around Mosso, and Cycling around Mosso.
Yes, some areas are suitable for families. Lake Vargno is noted for its generally easy-to-navigate paths, making it a great spot for a leisurely break. While specific family-friendly trails around the lakes are not detailed, the region offers diverse landscapes that can accommodate various activity levels.
The late spring and summer months are ideal for visiting the high-altitude lakes, as the shores burst with vibrant flora like rhododendrons and mountain lilies. This period also offers the best conditions for hiking and enjoying the alpine scenery. For lower-altitude lakes like Lake Viverone, the warmer months are perfect for water sports and exploring historic villages.
While the region is known for its natural beauty, specific information on designated wild swimming spots is limited. However, the region research mentions that Piedmont's lakes, including Lake Viverone, offer opportunities for swimming and various water sports. The Oropa Stream Waterfall highlight also mentions 'frozen lake baths,' suggesting some adventurous options.
Absolutely. While not directly in Mosso, Lake Viverone in the wider Biellese region offers peaceful walks, historic villages, boat cruises, and water sports. Further still, Lake Orta is a 'hidden gem' known for its medieval village Orta San Giulio and a stunning UNESCO World Heritage island, offering clear waters and cultural exploration.
Yes, several huts and refuges offer both food and accommodation. The Lago della Vecchia Hut provides typical Piedmontese cuisine and 22 beds during the summer season. Similarly, Rifugio della Balma is a modern and comfortable refuge with a large bar, dining rooms, and eight rooms for overnight stays.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, the tranquility of the high-altitude settings, and the opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. The modern and comfortable facilities at refuges like Rifugio della Balma, nestled between two lakes, are also highly valued. The overall appeal is reflected in the komoot community's 52 upvotes and 49 photos for the area's highlights.
Yes, for lakes like Lake Vargno, the surrounding paths are generally free of technical difficulties and easy to follow, making them suitable for mountain running while enjoying breathtaking views.
While specific regulations for dogs are not detailed, many outdoor areas in Italy, including hiking trails, are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or contact specific refuges like Rifugio della Balma or Lago della Vecchia Hut for their pet policies if you plan to bring your dog inside.
Still not found your perfect lake around Mosso? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
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