Highlight • Lake
Lago Nero and Cima Fournier
Hiking
4.8
(22)
Lago Nero and Cima Fournier offer a captivating alpine experience in the heart of the Cottian Alps, straddling the border between Italy's Piedmont region and France's Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Lago Nero, a serene alpine lake, rests at an elevation of 2,070 meters, while the majestic Cima Fournier summit rises to 2,424 meters above sea level. This area is recognized for its ecological significance as part of the "Cima Fournier e Lago Nero" Site of Community Importance, highlighting its preserved natural beauty.
…This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Cima Fournier e Lago Nero
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lago Nero and Cima Fournier
4.8
(22)
76
hikers
12.2km
04:14
630m
630m
4.0
(1)
37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(1)
41
hikers
14.4km
04:51
590m
590m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,250 m
Weather
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Tuesday 24 March
6°C
-11°C
53 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking routes around Lago Nero and Cima Fournier?
The most popular route involves hiking from Lago Nero up to Cima Fournier. This ascent is generally rated as an Excursionist (E) difficulty in summer. Many hikers also enjoy circular walks around Lago Nero itself, or extending their journey to nearby peaks like Mount Corbioun or Saurel Peak, often using Capanna Mautino as a base.
What is the typical hiking terrain like, and what are the elevation gains for popular routes?
The terrain varies from unpaved roads leading to Lago Nero to alpine trails for the ascent to Cima Fournier. The path to the summit involves a moderate climb. Lago Nero is situated at 2,070 meters above sea level, and Cima Fournier reaches 2,424 meters, meaning an elevation gain of approximately 350 meters from the lake to the summit.
Are there any specific landmarks or hidden viewpoints worth seeking out besides the main summit?
Absolutely! Near the edge of Lago Nero, you'll find the small, historic Madonna del Lago Nero sanctuary, rebuilt in 1854. Slightly uphill from the lake is Capanna Mautino, a mountain refuge that offers stunning views and serves as a base for further explorations. The panoramic view towards the Pic de Rochebrune is also highly recommended by visitors.
Where can I find parking and are there public transport options to Lago Nero and Cima Fournier?
Lago Nero is accessible via an unpaved road from Bousson and Claviere, where parking is typically available. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Public transport options directly to the lake are limited due to its alpine location and the unpaved access road. It's advisable to check local bus schedules to Bousson or Claviere and plan for a longer walk or alternative transport from there.
Is Lago Nero and Cima Fournier suitable for winter hiking or ski mountaineering?
Yes, the area transforms into a popular destination for ski mountaineering during winter. Routes often lead from Bousson to Lago Nero and then onwards to Cima Fournier, offering wide, skiable areas with gentle slopes. Winter hiking is also possible, but requires appropriate gear, experience, and awareness of snow conditions and avalanche risks.
Are there any family-friendly or dog-friendly options for visiting Lago Nero and Cima Fournier?
The unpaved road leading to Lago Nero and the area immediately around the lake are generally suitable for families looking for a less strenuous outing. For dogs, the trails are typically welcoming, but always ensure your dog is on a leash, especially in protected areas, and that you carry out any waste. The ascent to Cima Fournier is more challenging and might not be suitable for very young children or dogs unaccustomed to alpine hiking.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Lago Nero and Cima Fournier?
While there are no cafes or pubs directly at Lago Nero, the Capanna Mautino mountain refuge, located slightly uphill from the lake, provides a convenient base for visitors. It offers accommodation and basic services. For more extensive amenities, including cafes, pubs, and hotels, you would need to descend to the nearby towns of Bousson or Claviere.
Can I swim in Lago Nero?
Lago Nero is a pristine alpine lake within a designated Site of Community Importance (SIC). While there are no official restrictions against swimming, the water is typically very cold, even in summer, due to its high altitude (2,070 meters). Visitors often enjoy the tranquility by the shore, but wild swimming is at your own discretion and risk.
What makes Lago Nero and Cima Fournier a protected natural area?
The area encompassing Lago Nero and Cima Fournier is designated as a Site of Community Importance (SIC), covering 639 hectares. This designation highlights its significant natural conservation value, protecting its diverse flora and fauna within a preserved high-altitude ecosystem in the Cottian Alps.
Are there other lakes named Lago Nero, and how can I be sure I'm visiting the correct one?
Yes, 'Lago Nero' (Black Lake) is a common name for several lakes in Italy. The Lago Nero associated with Cima Fournier is located in the municipality of Cesana Torinese, within the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. To ensure you're visiting the correct one, always verify its location in relation to Cima Fournier and the towns of Bousson or Claviere.