Lago di Lei, Alpine reservoir at Italy-Switzerland border, Grisons
Lago di Lei is an alpine reservoir straddling the Italy-Switzerland border in the Grisons region, fed by mountain streams and glacial runoff. The lake fills a deep valley surrounded by rugged peaks and serves as a water storage basin for downstream power generation.
The lake was created in the mid-20th century through construction of a hydroelectric dam following territorial agreements between Italy and Switzerland. This project allowed Switzerland to harness water resources in this border region for power generation.
The reservoir represents successful international cooperation between Italy and Switzerland, enabling shared management of water resources and power generation.
The reservoir is reachable by mountain roads from the Swiss side, though accessibility varies with the season and weather conditions. Winter snow and ice can block routes, so visiting during warmer months is more straightforward.
Waters here are the only ones in Italian territory that drain northward into the North Sea via the Rhine, rather than toward the Mediterranean like the rest of Italy. This makes them hydrologically unusual for Italian geography.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
