Chianale & Lago Blu: One of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages and Alpine Lakes

1. Region: Piedmont – Valle Varaita (Cottian Alps)

2. Province / Nearest City: Province of Cuneo – nearest town: Pontechianale (4 km)

3. Attraction Name: Chianale Village & Lago Blu of Chianale

4. Address:

   • Chianale Village: Frazione Chianale, 12020 Pontechianale (CN)

   • Lago Blu: Road to Colle dell’Agnello, 12020 Pontechianale (CN) – 10 min by car or a short walk from Chianale

5. Distance from Major City:

   • From Cuneo: about 70 km – 1 h 40 min by car

   • From Turin: about 140 km – 2 h 45 min by car

6. How to Get There:

   • By car: From Cuneo, take the SP589 to Costigliole Saluzzo, then SP8 and SP105 through the Valle Varaita, passing Sampeyre and Pontechianale until you reach Chianale. The Lago Blu can be reached either by car (parking available nearby) or with a short, easy hike from the village.

   • By public transport: Buses connect Cuneo to Sampeyre and Pontechianale, but service is limited and not ideal for a day trip. A car is strongly recommended.

7. What Makes It Unique in the World:
   Chianale is officially one of “Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages” and the last inhabited hamlet before the French border at Colle dell’Agnello (2,748 m). With stone houses, slate roofs, a medieval bridge over the Varaita stream, and narrow cobbled streets, it feels like stepping back into a timeless Alpine world.
   Just above the village lies the Lago Blu of Chianale, a small alpine lake famous for its intense turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding peaks. Its crystal-clear colors and peaceful setting make it one of the most photogenic spots in the valley.

8. Local Story / Fun Fact:
   According to local legend, the lake’s deep blue color comes from a jewel that a princess once lost in its waters. The gem sank to the bottom, forever tinting the lake with its magical brilliance. Children in the valley still imagine spotting the jewel sparkle under the surface.

9. Best Time to Visit:

   • Summer (June–September): warm days, ideal for easy hikes and picnics by the lake.

   • Autumn (September–October): forests around Chianale glow red and gold, creating a magical atmosphere.

   • Winter: Chianale turns into a snowy fairy tale village, but access to the Lago Blu is often limited by snow.

10. Nearby Food & Stay:

• What to eat:

  • Agnello Sambucano (Slow Food lamb breed native to Valle Varaita)

  • Polenta saracena with local mountain cheese

  • Ravioles della Val Varaita (handmade gnocchi with butter and toma cheese)

  • Chestnut and mountain honey desserts

• Recommended restaurants:

  • Locanda La Peiro Groso (Chianale) – rustic and authentic Occitan cuisine

  • Rifugio Alevè (Pontechianale) – cozy mountain hut dishes after a walk

  • Locanda degli Elfi (Melle, lower valley) – romantic and refined atmosphere

• Where to stay (if you extend your trip):

  • B&B La Chianale – inside the historic village, stone house atmosphere

  • Albergo Le Chalet – near Pontechianale lake, with mountain views

✨ Suggested One-Day Itinerary:

• Morning: Explore Chianale village: cross the medieval bridge, visit the small church of San Lorenzo, and wander the cobbled alleys.

• Lunch: Enjoy ravioles della Val Varaita and lamb at a local inn.

• Afternoon: Head to the Lago Blu for a relaxing walk, photos, and perhaps a picnic with an alpine view.

• Return: Drive back through the scenic Valle Varaita in the late afternoon.