Lago di Cei

Lake Cei at 916 m a.s.l. and the smaller nearby Laghetto di Lagabis are located in the two valley basins of glacial origin of the protected area Prà dell'Albi. Lake Cei in the eponymous valley is accessible in a 30-minute drive from the cities of Trento and Rovereto. It is delimited by forested hills and the walls of Monte Stivo. The origin of the lake probably dates back to a landslide which broke off from Monte Bondone and blocked the water flow from the valley. In 1975 a group of scientists took beechwood samples of tree trunks rooted to the lake floor. They analysed the radiocarbon contained in these samples and dated the origin of the lake to around 1250 AD.

The biotope surrounding the lake is characterised by a huge variety of plants, wetlands and very rare plant species. The lake stretches over a surface area of 0.039 sq km and is covered by an extensive carpet of water lilies, particularly the Nymphaea Alba and the Nuphar Lutea. Other plants worth mentioning are the Iris Sibirica, a stunningly beautiful blue Iris which only thrives here and in one other locality of Trentino. The Utricularia Minor is a small carnivorous plant that lives underwater and surfaces only during its blooming period. The water of the lake also hosts water birds, fish and amphibians. The surrounding wood with beech trees, European silver firs , Norway spruces, woodpeckers, owls, reptiles and mammals turns into a postcard motif in autumn when the leaves turn brown, orange, red and yellow.

The 450-metre long and 140-metre wide lake has a maximum depth of 13.5 metres. On the shores you can find a kiosk and a small playground with swings and climbing installations. In summer, only the most courageous visitors have a refreshing swim in its cold waters. In winter the lake ices over creating an unequalled natural setting overlooked by the snow-covered peaks of the mountains. The entirely flat route leading around the lake is suitable for baby carriages and requires one hour of walking to be completed. Another path not to miss takes you to Malga Cimana.

Lake Cei is a highly sought-after natural paradise for those who want to relax in the tranquillity of a stunning, almost unspoilt natural landscape.