Lago del Barbellino, lake in Italy
Lago del Barbellino is a reservoir in the upper Seriana Valley, set among the rocky peaks of the Orobie Alps in the province of Bergamo. It sits at around 6,300 feet (1,920 m) above sea level, enclosed on three sides by steep rock faces and high ridges.
The dam that holds the reservoir was built in the 1930s to collect water from several surrounding valleys and supply energy to the textile mills in the valley below. The construction flooded the original riverbed of the Serio and changed the shape of this part of the mountain for good.
The Barbellino lake sits in an area long used by mountain walkers from the Lombardy region, who follow trails that have been worn down by generations of hikers. The Curò Refuge near the shore is a stopping point where people share a meal or rest before continuing to the higher passes.
The walk to the lake begins in the village of Valbondione, where parking is available but fills quickly on summer weekends, so an early start is a good idea. The trail gains around 3,300 feet (1,000 m) in elevation, so solid footwear and enough water are needed before setting off.
Once a year the gates of the Barbellino dam are opened on purpose, releasing a waterfall called Cascate del Serio that ranks among the tallest in Europe. The event is announced in advance and draws people who travel specifically to watch the water fall from the valley floor.
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