Lagh de Calvaresc

Lagh de Calvaresc is a small alpine lake above the village of Rossa in Val Calanca, in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It lies at roughly 2,200 m, on the ridge that separates the Calanca and Mesolcina valleys. Seen from above, its outline resembles a heart, which is why hiking guides often call it the heart-shaped lake.

Where is Lagh de Calvaresc?

The lake sits in the range that runs from the San Bernardino Pass, on the border between two Italian-speaking valleys of Graubünden. The name is in the Lombard dialect, and tourist material also uses Laghet de Calvaresc and Lagh da Calvaresc. The usual starting point is Rossa, the highest village in the Calanca valley.

How do you get there from Rossa?

The main route begins in the village. A large car park stands by the bridge, and public transport serves Rossa. The official Graubünden tourism listing gives about 5 km, 2.5 hours of walking one way and around 1,130 m of ascent, rated medium difficulty.

The path first climbs through dense conifer forest, then opens onto meadows near Alp de Calvaresc Sott. The toughest section is the climb to Alp de Calvaresc Sora at about 1,950 m. The rock can be wet there, and a chain fixed in the stone gives you something to hold.

Can you approach from Soazza?

Yes. The alternative starts at Soazza in the Mesolcina valley and passes Alp de Bec. It covers about 6.4 km in roughly 3 hours with around 870 m of ascent. The lake comes into view shortly after Alp de Calvaresc Desora. You can also arrive via Capanna Buffalora, the only staffed hut in this part of the valley, which stands between the lake and the Buffalora pass and is open from May to October.

What will you see?

The lake itself is small, but the setting is striking: stony slopes and high pastures all around. Climb a few minutes to the saddle on the left side of the shore. From there the water takes on its heart shape, and this is where most of the well-known photos are taken.

What if you have more time?

The lake lies on the Sentiero Alpino Calanca, a multi-day high-level route. Beyond it the trail climbs to Bocchetta di Calvaresc and continues to the Rifugio Ganan hut. The regional tourism office also lists a loop via Piz de Ganan of about 22 km, with over 1,600 m of ascent and a high point near 2,400 m. That is a day for experienced, fit hikers.

When should you go, and what should you know?

Summer and early autumn are best. Snowfields can linger at altitude even in midsummer, so check conditions before setting off. The route needs sure footing and a head for heights. Livestock in Val Calanca is protected by guardian dogs, so look at the dog-distribution map linked from the Graubünden tourism page. Carry water and a warm layer.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the hike to Lagh de Calvaresc? About 2.5 hours one way from Rossa, and about 3 hours from Soazza.

Is the trail difficult? It is rated medium. The most demanding stretch is the wet rock with a fixed chain below Alp de Calvaresc Sora.

Can you reach Rossa by public transport? Yes, there are public transport stops in both Rossa and Soazza. Rossa also has a large car park by the bridge.

Where is the best place to see the heart shape? Walk a few minutes up to the saddle on the left side of the lake. The characteristic outline is visible from there.