Lake Vago, the blue pearl of Livigno

Lake Vago, overlooking the Forcola di Livigno, is known for its incredibly bright colour, due to the presence of white copper sulphate (you can notice the white layer on the stones rinsed by the waters of the lake), which reflect the sunlight giving to the lake a unique blue shade. Despite its beauty, the lake is relatively little known, partly due to the lack of services/shelters and the somewhat "rustic" condition of the path.

The excursion begins at 2315 meters of the Forcola di Livigno - you can park in the (few) car parks near the pass and the Tridentina refuge. The route to Lago Vago is a hike of approximately 6 kilometers and takes 1.30/2 hours depending on the pace. The path, narrow but well signposted and easily practicable, ventures into a large valley to the east of the pass, then climbs up the eastern slope following a few hairpin bends.

Climbing one crag after another, the Bernina opens up behind us, entertaining us a bit. Further on, when the sensation of having taken the wrong turn begins, we follow the trace of a flat path towards a stone field (m2790 , 1.20 hours) - but once there, the lake finally appears (100 meters lower on our left). We take one of the many tracks that descend randomly to the lake to reach its turquoise waters (m2687, 10 minutes).

Experienced hikers/mountaineers can extend the excursion up to Monte Vago (3050 m), reaching its slender North-West ridge and then climbing up to the summit cross.

To return, follow the same path (m2315 , 1 hour).