Covel Lake, a secret corner among the pastures and peaks of Trentino

There is a place, nestled among the woods and meadows of the Val di Peio, that truly seems to belong to a fairy tale: it is Lake Covel , a small Alpine body of water of glacial origin, a precious treasure chest of history and biodiversity that, despite its small size, manages to enchant all who visit it. In the heart of the Ortles-Cevedale mountain range , in the province of Trento, it stands at an altitude of just over 1,800 meters and is part of the Stelvio National Park .

Getting here isn't difficult, which is why Lake Covel is also perfect for those who enjoy hiking without tackling overly challenging trails. The hike begins in Peio Paese , a charming village nestled in the mountains, where you can leave your car near the History Museum . Those with time should take a short break: the museum, the nearby Austro-Hungarian cemetery, and the little church of Dosso di San Rocco offer a moment of reflection and remembrance.

A walk through nature, history, and Alpine silence

The trail leading to the lake climbs gently, never overwhelming. The elevation gain, just over 200 meters, is easy to negotiate, accompanied by the rustling of trees and the scent of resin. You walk along a forest road and then a mule track that runs alongside the Rio Vioz, a small stream that, higher up, transforms into the spectacular Covel Waterfall.

This is one of the most evocative points of the hike: the waterfall appears just before reaching the lake and is a natural spectacle that offers freshness and wonder, especially on the hottest days.

As you approach your destination, the landscape opens up. Larch forests give way to green pastures dotted with flowers, where you can often spot grazing cows and goats. The presence of the Malga Covel adds a touch of authenticity: a goat's cheese with a bold flavor, reminiscent of the mountains and tradition, is still produced there. Stopping for a snack or lunch outdoors, perhaps taking advantage of the tables and benches available, is almost a must to fully enjoy the experience.

And then, there it is: Lake Covel appears almost suddenly, discreet and silent, as if waiting to be discovered only by those who know how to look. Its surface is small, but the reflection of the mountains and the sky makes it immense in the eyes of the observer. The water is clear, often still, and on clear days the lake transforms into a perfect mirror that captures every detail of the surrounding Alpine landscape. Here, nature reigns supreme, and the silence (broken only by the wind or the distant murmur of the stream) invites you to pause, slow down, and truly breathe.

The lake is also an important biotope , a testament to the valley's ancient glacial origins. The protected and safeguarded environment represents a delicate ecosystem that tells the story of these mountains' millennia-old history. It is therefore essential to experience it with respect: leave no trace of your passage, tread carefully, listen, and observe.

An excursion for everyone, between nature and simplicity

One of the most appreciated features of the trail leading to Lake Covel is its accessibility . The first section of the route, up to the mountain hut, is suitable for strollers , making it ideal for families with children. Those who wish to complete the loop and continue beyond the lake will find a slightly more challenging trail, but perfect for tackling with a baby carrier. The entire route is mostly shaded, among ancient trees and quiet clearings: a real lifesaver on the hottest summer days.

Lake Covel, in short, is an invitation to rediscover the pleasure of slowness, to fully experience the magic of the mountains, to rediscover a simple yet profound connection with nature. Once discovered, it will remain in your heart . And those who love the mountains will want to return to visit it again and again.