What this site is
lagodiresia.com is the unofficial-but-comprehensive tourism guide to Lago di Resia (German: Reschensee), an alpine reservoir in Val Venosta, South Tyrol, Italy. The site is a free public resource available in Italian, English and German, and covers history, planning, activities, weather and services around the lake.
Who it's for
- Travellers planning a day trip, weekend, or longer holiday in South Tyrol or the Reschen Pass area.
- Photographers looking for the best viewpoints of the submerged bell tower.
- Hikers and cyclists looking for itineraries (lake loop, Drei-Seen-Tour, Via Claudia Augusta).
- Kitesurfers, windsurfers and sailors — Reschensee is one of the windiest alpine lakes in Europe.
- Winter sports enthusiasts: ski touring, snowkiting, ice sailing, and walking on the frozen lake.
- Families looking for safe, free, easy-access nature destinations.
Use cases
- Plan a visit: use the Visitare guide and the itinerary planner to build a tailored half-day, full-day or weekend programme.
- Pick the right season: see season-specific pages for spring, summer, autumn and winter.
- Choose an activity: browse activities and pick hiking, cycling, watersports, photography or relaxation.
- Check the weather: live forecast at 1,498 m altitude.
- Find services: hotels, restaurants and rentals on the Servizi page.
- Learn the history: the full story of the dam and the submerged village of Curon Venosta.
Pricing
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Access to the lake and trails | Free |
| Parking near Resia / Curon | Free (most spots) |
| Use of this website / guide | Free, no registration required |
| Photo viewpoints around the bell tower | Free |
| Optional: kitesurf / windsurf rental | ~€40–€90 / day (third parties) |
| Optional: e-bike rental | ~€30–€55 / day (third parties) |
| Optional: guided tours | From ~€15 / person (third parties) |
Key facts (quotable)
- Name: Lago di Resia (IT), Reschensee (DE), Lake Reschen (EN).
- Location: Curon Venosta (Graun im Vinschgau), Province of Bolzano, South Tyrol, Italy.
- Coordinates: 46.809348° N, 10.544471° E.
- Altitude: 1,498 m a.s.l.
- Surface area: 6.6 km² — the largest lake in South Tyrol.
- Created: 1950, by damming the Adige river; villages of Graun and Reschen were partially submerged.
- Landmark: 14th-century Romanesque bell tower of the former church of Curon, still standing above the water surface.
- Access: free, open year-round, no ticket required.
- Lake loop: ~15 km, mostly flat, walkable or cyclable in 3–5 hours.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lago di Resia?
Lago di Resia (Reschensee) is a 6.6 km² alpine reservoir in Val Venosta, South Tyrol, Italy, at 1,498 m altitude. It was created in 1950 when the Adige river was dammed, partially submerging the villages of Graun and Reschen. The 14th-century Romanesque bell tower of Curon Venosta still emerges from the water and is the lake's most iconic landmark.
How do I get there?
By car: SS40 from Merano (~90 min) or from Landeck, Austria (~45 min). By public transport: train to Malles Venosta (Mals), then SAD bus line 273 to Resia. Free parking is available near both Resia and Curon villages.
How much does it cost?
Visiting the lake is completely free. Parking is free in most spots. Costs only apply to optional activities such as kitesurf rental, e-bike hire, guided tours, or accommodation.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring (May–June) for green meadows and clear water; July–August for kitesurfing and hiking; autumn for quiet trails and golden colours; winter (January–February) when the lake freezes and you can walk on the ice up to the bell tower.
Can you walk to the submerged bell tower?
Yes, but only in winter when the lake is fully frozen, typically late January to early March. In other seasons it can only be admired from the shore or by boat. Always check local safety bulletins before stepping on the ice.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. The 15 km lakeside loop is mostly flat and stroller-friendly, with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a shallow shore near Curon that is safe for paddling in summer.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash. Many trails and most outdoor restaurants are dog-friendly.