Planning a day in Piedmont that combines breathtaking scenery, gentle hiking, and authentic mountain charm? This guided trip to the Green Lakes from Balme offers all that—and more. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just enjoy a scenic outing, this tour promises colorful lakes, sweeping mountain views, and a peaceful escape from busy roads and towns.
What sets this experience apart? Three things we particularly appreciate: the chance to see stunning alpine lakes with vivid colors, the opportunity to hike through unspoiled wild valleys, and the insight from a knowledgeable local guide who knows these mountains intimately. The only consideration? It’s a fairly full day with several hours of walking, so a basic level of fitness and comfort with mountain terrain is recommended.
This tour suits nature enthusiasts, hikers with some mountain experience, and those eager to explore lesser-trodden paths in Italy’s Piedmont region. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, well-organized way to connect with the mountains and see a few of Piedmont’s hidden gems, this could be just the trip for you.
Good To Know
- Stunning Lakes: See the colorful Verdi lakes and darker Lake Paschiet, both set in high mountain basins.
- Authentic Mountain Environment: Walk through ancient mountain pastures and stone buildings typical of the region.
- Scenic Views: Wide vistas of peaks over 3000 meters offer incredible photo opportunities.
- Wild Valley: Experience a remote, road-free valley far from modern life.
- Guided Experience: Led by a qualified local guide, with hiking poles included.
- Suitable for Moderate Walkers: Designed for those with some mountain walking experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Green Lakes Day Trip
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Starting Point: Les Montagnards
The adventure begins at the humble yet charming hiking refuge of Les Montagnards. Here, you’ll meet your guide, Andrea Mantelli, who is known for his friendly approach and deep knowledge of the local terrain. The meeting point is straightforward—just ask at the refuge, and you’ll be ready to start your morning in the mountains.
The Trail: From Larch Woods to Mountain Pastures
The route kicks off with a gentle walk through larch forests and open pastures, providing a peaceful setting that’s perfect for acclimatizing. As you progress, the trail begins to ascend, leading you toward the Pontat waterfalls. The sight of rushing water spilling over rocks adds a lively element to the landscape.
The trail steepens as you approach the Paschiet stream, where alpine meadows burst with wildflowers—think bright reds, yellows, and purples—adding vibrant splashes of color to your view. The sound of flowing water and the scent of mountain flora make this part especially memorable.
Reaching the Verdi Lakes: A Colorful Surprise
The highlight of the hike is reaching the Verdi lakes at 2154 meters. These two small glacial basins are notable for their emerald-green hue, which owes its vivid color to algae containing chlorophyll. This striking contrast against the surrounding rocky landscape offers fantastic photo opportunities and a real sense of achievement.
Guests who’ve visited mention that the lakes are “really as beautiful as advertised”, and the vibrant color makes them worth the effort. You’ll have time for a packed lunch here, enjoying your meal while soaking in the scenery. The guide often points out interesting facts about the lakes and their formation, adding educational value to the visit.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDescending to Lake Paschiet and Returning to Balme
After lunch, the route begins to descend toward Lake Paschiet, at 2001 meters. This lake appears darker in color, providing a different visual experience. From here, you’ll continue your walk downhill, passing through more alpine terrain and ancient pastures.
The final leg circles back to Les Montagnards, completing a roughly 6-hour circuit that balances challenging sections with moments of tranquility. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of mountains over 3000 meters, broad valleys, and quiet wilderness—far from any roads or houses.
What’s Included and What Not
For €41, the tour offers a lot: a qualified hiking guide, hiking poles, and a well-structured itinerary. You’ll need to bring your own packed lunch, water, and appropriate outdoor clothing, but the guide provides the expertise and safety equipment.
It’s important to note that meals and accident insurance are extra, so plan accordingly. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personal experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and tailored insights.
Practical Details
The tour is designed for those with some mountain walking experience. It’s not suited for very young children, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health conditions. The terrain can be uneven, and the route may change if weather becomes dangerous—safety always comes first.
The meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour offers live guides in Italian, English, and French, making it suitable for international travelers. Cancellation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—which is a plus if your plans change unexpectedly.
What to Bring
Packing essentials include sunglasses, sun hat, hiking shoes, long pants, a jacket, and a daypack. Don’t forget snacks, a reusable water bottle, and your packed lunch. Remember, no sandals, flip-flops, or large bags are allowed on the trail, and safety gear like walking sticks isn’t included but can be used if you bring your own.
Why This Tour Offers Good Value
At $41, this trip balances cost and experience well. You get a guided hike, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to see authentic mountain lakes and landscapes that are often overlooked. Compared to private tours or self-guided hikes, having a local guide ensures safety, local insights, and a richer understanding of the environment.
The inclusion of hiking poles and the small group setup make for a comfortable and personalized outing. However, it’s worth remembering that you’ll need to carry your own lunch and gear, so packing well is essential for comfort, especially if you’re not accustomed to mountain walks.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This day trip is perfect for moderate hikers who are comfortable walking in mountain environments and want a well-organized, guided excursion. Nature lovers eager to see vivid lakes and enjoy panoramic mountain views will find it especially rewarding. It’s also great for travelers who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and the chance to learn from a knowledgeable guide.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day of lakes and mountain scenery without technical hiking or strenuous climbs, this trip fits well. However, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the uneven terrain and physical demands.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for those over 7 years old with some mountain walking experience. It involves several hours of hiking on uneven terrain, so very young children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.
How long is the hike?
The total hike lasts about 4 hours, split into different sections with a break for lunch. The entire day, including travel and stops, is around 6 hours.
Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, a packed lunch is required as part of the experience. You’ll eat near the lakes, enjoying the scenery.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided tour with a qualified hiking guide and hiking poles. Meals, insurance, and personal gear are not included.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Is there cell phone coverage during the hike?
The route passes through a wild valley with no cell coverage, but the guide carries a satellite device for emergencies.
What should I wear?
Dress in outdoor clothing suitable for mountain weather—layers, long pants, sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Italian, English, and French, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.
To sum it up, this guided trip to the Green Lakes from Balme offers a fantastic combination of natural beauty, authentic mountain scenery, and expert guidance. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to experience Piedmont’s wild side without technical challenges, especially if you appreciate a peaceful, scenic setting and a well-organized day out. Perfect for nature lovers, modest hikers, or anyone wanting a taste of Italy’s alpine charm in a small-group setting.
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