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Discovering the Green Lakes: An Authentic Mountain Day in Piedmont
This guided day trip to the Green Lakes in Piedmont offers a chance to step away from busy roads and explore a wild, unspoiled valley. For around $41, you’ll spend about six hours hiking through larch forests, blooming alpine meadows, and past ancient stone buildings—all led by a knowledgeable local guide. It’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy moderate mountain walks with scenic rewards, especially if you’re comfortable with some elevation gain and uneven terrain.
What really stands out about this experience is the way it combines natural beauty with cultural touches—like visiting old mountain pastures, once used by miners and herders. We love the fact that you get to enjoy panoramic views of peaks over 3,000 meters and see colorful glacial lakes that change with the sunlight. The only thing to consider? The route can be quite steep at times, so it’s best suited for hikers with some mountain walking experience.
This trip is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of adventure and want an authentic taste of Piedmont’s mountain landscape. If you’re looking for a small-group experience with personalized guidance, this tour hits the mark. However, those with mobility challenges or young children should probably look for more accessible options, as the terrain isn’t suitable for everyone.
Key Points
- Authentic Alpine Experience: Combines scenic lakes, mountain views, and old stone buildings.
- Moderate Hiking: Suitable for those with some mountain walking experience.
- Small Group: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.
- Local Guide: Knowledgeable and multilingual, adding insights about the landscape and history.
- Includes Hiking Poles: Helpful for navigating steeper sections.
- Wild, Remote Setting: No roads or houses in sight, providing a true mountain wilderness feel.
The Journey to the Green Lakes: What to Expect
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Starting Point: Les Montagnards
The tour begins at Les Montagnards, a charming hiking refuge that sets a cozy, rustic tone for the day. This spot is accessible and serves as a great base for the day’s adventure. Here, you’ll meet your guide, Andrea Mantelli, who’s well-regarded for his local knowledge and friendly approach. Since the meeting point is at the refuge, arriving a little early ensures a relaxed start.
First Leg: Ascending Through Forests and Pastures
The initial three hours of hiking take you across a trail that winds through larch woods and mountain pastures. We loved the way the trail transitions from shaded forest to open alpine terrain, making for varied scenery. The route ascends gradually, but as you get closer to the waterfalls, it becomes steeper, so good footwear and some stamina are a must.
The highlight of this section is the Pontat waterfalls, a cascade that marks the beginning of the more rugged part of the trek. Expect rushing water and a cool, misty environment—perfect for photo opportunities. During this part, you’ll also encounter ancient stone buildings and mountain pastures, giving a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. These structures have been used historically by miners and herders, adding a tangible connection to the area’s past.
Reaching the Verdi Lakes: A Gem of Color
After about two hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Verdi Lakes, situated at 2,154 meters. These two small, glacial basins are truly a sight—their bright emerald hue is caused by algae containing chlorophyll, which gives them a striking color contrast against the surrounding rock. Many reviews praise the lakes for their vibrant shades, and you’ll want your camera ready to capture the scenery.
Here, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the breathtaking views. The lakes are relatively small but offer panoramic vistas of the high peaks above, some towering over 3,000 meters. The cool, fresh air and the serene landscape make this a perfect spot to rest and reflect.
Down to Lake Paschiet and Return
Post-lunch, the route continues downhill to Lake Paschiet at 2,001 meters. This darker-colored lake provides a different visual experience—more subdued, yet equally beautiful. The descent then takes you back through alpine meadows, with views of wildflowers and mountain panoramas as you make your way back to Les Montagnards.
The entire route forms a circular trek, which means you’ll return to your starting point without retracing your steps. This adds to the sense of exploration and discovery.
Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
The Itinerary
- Meeting at Les Montagnards: The adventure starts here, with introductions and safety briefing.
- Hiking (3 hours): Traversing forests, pastures, and ascending to waterfalls and lakes.
- Lunch (1 hour): Enjoy a packed meal amidst spectacular scenery.
- Further Hike (1 hour): Descending to Lake Paschiet, soaking in the changing landscape.
- Visit (20 minutes): Short stop at the lakes to absorb the views and take photos.
- Final Hike (1 hour): Returning to the starting point via a circle route.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The tour includes a qualified hiking guide and hiking poles, which are particularly useful for steep or uneven sections. You’ll want to bring essentials such as sunglasses, sun hat, snacks, proper hiking shoes, a jacket, comfortable clothes, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle. Packing your own lunch is necessary, but many find the experience more authentic when enjoying their own picnic amid nature.
There’s a clear list of what’s not allowed—from high-heeled shoes to large luggage, ensuring everyone’s safety and the preservation of the environment.
Practicalities and Tips
- The tour lasts about 6 hours, so comfortable, layered outdoor clothing is essential.
- Since the route is in a wild valley with no cell coverage, the guide carries a satellite device for emergencies.
- The route may change based on weather or safety considerations, so flexibility is key.
- The experience is best suited for hikers with some mountain walking experience; it’s not recommended for young children under 7 or those with mobility or health issues.
Why This Tour Offers Good Value
At $41 per person, this tour delivers a comprehensive mountain experience in Piedmont, especially considering it includes a knowledgeable guide and hiking poles. Compared to larger, less personalized excursions, the small group size ensures a more tailored experience. The inclusion of scenic lakes, panoramic mountain views, and cultural highlights like old stone structures makes it a well-rounded adventure.
The nature of the route, with its steep sections and variable terrain, might be challenging for absolute beginners, but for those with some experience, it offers a rewarding day in the mountains. Plus, the focus on authentic mountain scenery and the remote, road-free environment brings a sense of true wilderness that many travelers seek.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip suits outdoor lovers and those comfortable with moderate hiking in rugged terrain. It’s a great fit if you’re eager to see colorful lakes, enjoy mountain panoramas, and learn about local history from a friendly guide. However, if you’re looking for an accessible, leisurely outing or have mobility issues, this might not be the best choice. Also, children under 7 or anyone with respiratory or heart issues should consider their physical readiness before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While some prior experience with mountain walks is recommended, the route’s steep sections and uneven ground mean it’s better suited for hikers with at least some experience.
What should I bring with me?
You’ll want sunglasses, a sun hat, snacks, hiking shoes, a jacket, comfortable clothes, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle. Packing your own lunch is necessary, and bringing extra layers for changing weather is smart.
How long is the hike?
The total hiking time is around 3 hours in the morning, with an additional hour after lunch and a final hour returning, totaling approximately six hours.
Are the lakes accessible for photos?
Absolutely. The Verdi lakes are small but very photogenic, with their vivid green color making them a highlight of the trip.
Is the route safe?
The guide carries a satellite device for emergencies, and the route is chosen for safety, but it’s important to follow instructions and wear proper gear to avoid accidents.
Can children join?
This tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, mainly due to the terrain and length of the hike.
This guided trip to the Green Lakes offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and outdoor activity. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Piemonte’s wild mountain landscapes with the reassurance of expert guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature-loving explorer, you’ll find this experience both rewarding and memorable.
