Lago di Resia Trekking
Lago di Resia, the largest lake above 1,000 km in the Alps, is in Curon Venosta, Italy. The area welcomes those who love amazing views and stunning natural scenery.
From the ancient bell tower protruding from the blue-green water to the well-curated path surrounding the lake, this is a can’t-miss site when visiting the area. Thanks to its captivating natural beauty, it’s the perfect place for trekking.
History of Lago di Resia: Why Trek Around Lago di Resia?
Lago di Resia lies in the Val Venosta Valley in the South Tyrol area near where Italy meets Switzerland and Austria. Alpine trails for trekking and biking dot the diverse and mountainous landscape, leading visitors on ancient pathways traveling to wild patches of apricots and strawberries.
Besides the lake itself, the biggest tourist attraction is the bell tower shooting out of the waters, which is an odd sight with a rather sad past. The Tower of Curon, or Campanile di Curon in Italian, is an old church bell tower that was once the center of the village of Curon.
The history of the tower and the lake collide in a tragic story. In the 1950s, a power company decided to create an artificial lake in the valley to connect Lake Curon and Lake Resia. However, 150 Curon residents refused to leave the area.
Sadly, the power company won the battle and forcefully removed them from their homes. The company then destroyed the village’s homes and buildings and created an artificial lake, leaving only the historic bell tower standing — but without the iconic bells.
Today, the tower is a heritage site with proper legal protection to ensure it remains there. It has even had various restorations over the years to keep it in good condition. At one point, workers even lowered the lake waters to do repairs on cracks in the tower.
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Things to Do in Lago di Resia
In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy trekking, jogging, and cycling around the lake. There is also always a breeze substantial enough to provide for good boating and kite surfing. In the winter, the lake freezes, and you can walk across it to the tower. There is even a legend that you can still hear the ghost bells of the church ringing in deep winter.
Getting There
Located on the Passo Resia mountain pass, which connects Austria and Italy, the lake is right on the main road in the Venosta valley. You can fly into South Tyrol at Bolzano from the major Italian airports, but the nearest international airports are in Innsbruck and Verona.
Once in the country, you can take the railroad. They run on time and offer a clean, comfortable ride. Regardless of where you are coming from, you should get off at the Malles-Mals stop, where you will need to catch the bus the rest of the way.
When traveling by bus, you need to get Bus 273, which will take you to the Graun-Curon bus stop, right in front of the tower.
If you would rather travel by car, you will need to take the pass. It has excellent views, the road is well-kept, and you can bring along equipment for activities you want to enjoy at the lake. Do note the car park area fills fast during busy times.
No matter how you get here, watch out for the tower. It’s impossible to miss, and lets you know you have arrived.
Visitor Details
Most of the lake is in Italy, but the locals in the area mainly speak German. Still, the surrounding communities offer plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and camping areas for tourists.
There is an eatery directly across from the lake. It offers decent food choices and clean restrooms. You will also find a viewing platform in the area, which is ideal for taking photos of the lake and valley.
Various Trekking Options
The trekking options in this area are quite endless. The most common treks will start from the path around the lake. No matter the path you choose, make sure to bring good walking shoes, plenty of drinking water.
Trek Around the Lake
Distance: 15.2 km
Time: 3.5–4 hours
Trekking Lago di Resia is fairly simple because there is a paved path surrounding the lake. You can easily follow it without trouble.
A great place to begin is at the village of Resia al Lago. Since you will walk a loop, you will also end here. As you walk, make sure to enjoy the forests and meadows that collide with the path area. It is stunning to behold the differences in the landscapes.
Of course, don’t forget to admire the lake and wildlife, such as butterflies and ducks, and picturesque flowers.
As you reach the southern side, you’ll see the power plant. It is a good reminder of the history of the lake. You’ll then cross the thick dam wall to follow the path along the road where you will see the bell tower, then continue to Lago di Resia.
Plamorter Moser Trek
Distance: 8 km
Time: 15. Hours
If you want to try a more challenging trek near Lake Resia, consider a hike to the Plamort Tank Barrier. You can start at the mountain station. You’ll want to find the Bergkastelbahn Nauders cable car. Follow path number 33 south. You’ll pass the Stieralm tavern, where you will continue to the Plamort Reservoir. Past this point, you’ll travel through the meadow to the Plamorter Moser biotope.
You’ll see the concrete piles topped in metal tips that form the tank barrier. It marks the border with Austria. If you walk a little more towards the south, there is an amazing view of Lake Resia. To return to the starting point, just reverse your trek.
Valentin, Staumauer Trek
Distance: 10.5 km
Time: 2.75 hours
Another more challenging yet shorter trek option starts at St. Valentin, Staumauer bus stop. You’ll begin with amazing views of the lake and walk beside it for the majority of this intermediate hike. Start off heading north on the path. You’ll want to continue until you hit a fork where you can go to the left. Take the fork left, which is the path closest to the lake.
Keep following the path until you reach Campanile nel Lago di Resia. Here is your turnaround. Come back alongside the roadway, which is a little loop that takes you back to the path along the lake. Keep walking until you come to another fork in the path.
Follow the fork to the left. Keep walking south, and you will come to Kirche St. Anna in Graun. This area also offers some stunning lake views. You can stop off here and explore a little. When ready, continue back on the path south to get back to the St. Valentin starting point.
Other Trek Options
If you find the main trek around the lake to be too long, you can always walk only part of the path and then turn around. You can start at any of the points along the lake and walk as far as you want.
Many hiking trails in this area go out more into the alps and meadows and take you away from the lake. There are various attractions to explore and countless trekking options. You should easily be able to find something that suits you.
Experience It for Yourself
Lago di Resia and the tower bursting forth from it are a spot you must see if you are in this area of Italy or even close by in Switzerland or Austria. The beauty is difficult to describe with words, but you can trust the many visitors who have come before you that it truly is a unique experience that you don’t want to miss. For more tips and advice on the best places to visit in Italy check out our blog here.
