One of my favorite places where I love to relax and take a walk surrounded by nature is undoubtedly Lake Antrona. It is located in Piedmont, in the wild Antrona Valley, at around 1070 meters above sea level. Its origin is not romantic but spectacular: it was born on 27 July 1642 when a gigantic landslide detached from Mount Pozzuoli descended into the valley and blocked the Troncone stream, giving life to the body of water which today enchants thousands of visitors.
The view is immediate: water with green and blue reflections, steep mountains all around and a silence that changes tone with every step. It is not a lake “built” for tourism, but a landscape shaped by nature and time. The entire area is still marked by the geological history of the event, which completely redesigned the valley.
The tour of the lake: a simple route between woods and water
The circular tour of Lake Antrona is one of the most accessible walks in the area. It extends for about 3 kilometers and can be completed in about an hour, without any particular technical difficulties. It is an ideal route for those who want to walk without effort, but with continuous views. The path alternates flat dirt stretches, wooden walkways, small bridges and passages in the woods.
The route can be tackled in both directions, but following the ring you have a natural progression of views: first the open lake, then the more intimate sections among the trees, up to the most scenic points. Along the shore there are also areas to stop for a break, with tables and quiet spaces to watch the water change color with the light. The path is simple, but the landscape always remains the protagonist.
At various points on the shore you can also go down to small natural beaches, where you can stop for a break directly on the water. In summer it is also possible to swim, although the water always remains very cold, with a temperature typical of an alpine lake fed by springs and melting snow.
The Sajont waterfall: the most spectacular point of the route
The most awaited moment arrives halfway around: the Sajont Waterfall. Here the path rises slightly and becomes more adventurous, with stone staircases and suspended sections that approach the waterfall. The route crosses a series of metal walkways that pass right behind the waterfall jet.
The water falls forcefully and often wets the path, making the passage intense and very scenic. It is one of the most photographed points in the entire valley. After the waterfall, the path continues between rocks and woods until it closes the ring with a little more difficulty than the first part (but nothing difficult even for beginners) and then returns to the starting point.
A landscape that changes step by step
One of the most interesting aspects of the tour is the variety of the landscape. You go from shady stretches in the woods to completely open views of the lake, with reflections that change depending on the time of day. The presence of water makes everything more dynamic, between mirrors, ripples and deep colours. The context is that of a poorly urbanized valley, where nature remains dominant. There are no large invasive tourist infrastructures, and this makes the walk even more immersive.
A walk also for families
The route is suitable for everyone, even families with children who are used to walking. It is not recommended with strollers due to the presence of stairs and irregular sections. Trekking or sports shoes are essential, especially in places near the waterfall where the ground can be slippery. The tour can be done in any season, but the best conditions are between spring and summer, when the colors of the lake are more intense and the flow of the waterfall more spectacular. In case of rain it is better to pay attention to the walkways and the possibility that the waterfall swells.
You can also continue towards Lake Campliccioli
Lake Antrona is not just an easy walk, but a path that alternates calm and amazement. The water, the waterfall and the forest create a natural balance that accompanies every step without ever becoming monotonous. In addition to the main ring of the lake, it is also possible to continue towards Lake Campliccioli, a higher destination reachable with an uphill stretch in the woods, often chosen by those who want to lengthen the excursion compared to the basic tour. Another perfect itinerary to come into direct contact with this magnificent area that will amaze you in every corner.
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