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About this place
Lai Barnagn is a swimming lake in Savognin, part of the Surses municipality in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It sits at roughly 1,200 m above sea level right in the village and ranks among the warmer bathing lakes in Switzerland. Think of it as a family beach with a mountain backdrop rather than a remote alpine tarn.
What is there to do at Lai Barnagn?
The lake is elongated, about 250 m long and 50 m wide. The grounds around it include grassy shores for lounging, a playground with water-play features, two beach volleyball courts that anyone can use for free, and an 18-hole minigolf course next door. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are on site, and a kiosk sells snacks and drinks. Four barbecue spots line the shore.
How do you get to the lake?
The address is Veia Barnagn, 7460 Savognin. Drivers can park at the Savognin Bergbahnen cable car station, around five minutes on foot from the water. On foot, the Julia Uferweg riverside route runs about 5 km along the Julia river, takes roughly 1 hour 10 minutes with about 60 m of climbing, and passes the lake. A gentler family option is the walk from Tigignas via Riom to Savognin (about 4.9 km, 1.5 hours), which starts with a short gondola ride and ends with a swim.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer is bathing season. In 2024 the site was open daily from 9:00 to 20:00 during high season, from late June to mid-August. Dates and hours change from year to year, so check the Savognin Bivio Albula tourism pages before you go. The water is drained in autumn and the lake is refilled in spring. In winter the area serves as a large car park for skiers, with room for about 700 vehicles.
Is the water tested?
Once a year, the Graubünden food safety and animal health office takes a water sample and tests it for harmful germs.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee at Lai Barnagn?
Check the Val Surses tourism pages for current ticket prices. The beach volleyball courts are free to use.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. There is a playground with water features, minigolf and a kiosk, and the lake is right next to the village.
Can I barbecue there?
Yes, there are four barbecue areas along the shore.
Do I have to hike to reach it?
No. The lake is in the middle of Savognin, a short walk from the car park, or a relaxed riverside walk along the Julia.
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