Lago di Maen
A stunning man-made lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue-green waters and picturesque picnic area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Lago di Maen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning man-made lake in Valtournenche, known for its vibrant blue-green waters and picturesque picnic area.
"A lovely spot to stop for a picnic or to lie down in the shade of a few trees."
🚗 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Lakeside
Equipped with tables, benches, and a playground, it's perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Scenic Lakeside Stroll
Around the lake
An easy, flat path perfect for a leisurely walk with beautiful mountain vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Picnic Paradise & Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk
The path around the lake is flat and easy, perfect for all ages.
🎣 Fishing Reserve Alert
Note that this is a fishing reserve; check local regulations if you plan to fish.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk
The path around the lake is flat and easy, perfect for all ages.
🎣 Fishing Reserve Alert
Note that this is a fishing reserve; check local regulations if you plan to fish.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant blue and green waters make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
The road (SR46) is generally well-maintained and scenic, winding through the beautiful Valtournenche valley.
You can typically find it by searching for 'Lago di Maen, Valtournenche, Italy' on your GPS device or mapping app.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lago di Maen is a free-access area. You can enjoy the lake and its amenities without any admission charge.
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.
Since there is no entrance fee, no advance booking is required to visit Lago di Maen.
To experience the most tranquil atmosphere, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends and peak summer afternoons tend to be busier with families.
As a fishing reserve, there might be specific regulations for fishing. Otherwise, general park rules apply.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy picnicking in the well-equipped area, taking a leisurely stroll around the lake, photography, and simply relaxing amidst nature.
Yes, there is a dedicated play area for children located near the picnic facilities, making it a great spot for families.
Swimming is generally not advised or permitted in Lago di Maen, as it is a man-made lake and a fishing reserve.
The lake offers a large picnic area with tables and benches, and a children's playground. Restrooms may be available seasonally.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Anything you like! Sandwiches, salads, local cheeses, fruits, and pastries are all great picnic options to enjoy by the lake.
You can find shops and restaurants in the nearby town of Cervinia or other villages along the Valtournenche valley before reaching the lake.
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.
Spread out a towel on the grass or use the provided tables and benches for a delightful picnic experience surrounded by nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant blue and green waters of the lake itself are the main attraction. Capture reflections of the surrounding mountains and the sky.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's colors.
Look for the interplay of light on the water, the textures of the surrounding mountains, and the reflections on a calm day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
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.
🚗 Day-Trippers and Road-Trippers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Man-Made Beauty
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.
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.
Picnicking and Relaxation by the Lake
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.
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.

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