Lake Resia: History and sports in Val Venosta
Lake Resia, located in the municipality of Curon, is one of the most fascinating symbols of Val Venosta. Its famous submerged bell tower tells a story of sacrifice and transformation, while the lake itself is now an unmissable destination for outdoor sports lovers and admirers of stunning landscapes.
The creation of the artificial basin
Where Lake Resia now stretches out, there once stood two natural lakes and the villages of Curon and Resia. In 1950, the construction of the dam for hydroelectric energy production led to the merging of the two basins and the submersion of 163 homes. The inhabitants were forced to leave their houses as early as 1939, and the two villages were rebuilt higher up. Today, the lake covers an area of 6.6 square kilometers and reaches a maximum depth of 22 meters.
The submerged bell tower: Between history and legend
The only visible remnant of the ancient village of Curon is the bell tower of the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, dating back to 1357. While the houses were demolished before being submerged, the church and its bell tower were spared, becoming one of the area’s most iconic landmarks.
In winter, when the lake freezes, visitors can walk across the ice and admire it up close. The place, with its mysterious aura, seems frozen in time. Over the years, a local legend has grown around the tower: it is said that on the coldest nights, you can still hear the bells ringing, even though they were removed in 1950.
Hikes and trekking around the lake
Lake Resia is the starting point for several trails of varying difficulty and length. Among the most popular are:
- Lake Circuit (15 km, elevation gain 55 m): an easy, scenic loop suitable even for bikes. Around 80% of the route is paved but still offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding nature.
- Pian dei Morti (8 km, elevation gain 500 m): a medium-difficulty hike starting from the sports field in Resia, leading to World War II bunkers in about three hours.
- Three Borders Marker (14 km, elevation gain 740 m): a demanding 6-hour trek offering breathtaking views over Austria and Switzerland. Starting from the central parking area in Resia, follow the signs to the Three Borders Marker through the forest. Once at the top, the panorama is simply unforgettable.
Water and winter sports
A paradise for sports enthusiasts: Lake Resia offers not only hiking with breathtaking views but also activities for every taste. The constant wind makes it ideal for sailing and kitesurfing, while the calm waters invite exploration by kayak or canoe. Getting close to the bell tower is an evocative and fascinating experience.
In winter, the frozen lake turns into a natural rink for skating and snowkiting, offering unique thrills. Don’t miss the Lake Resia Run, a 15 km race held every July that attracts more than 3,000 participants each year.
How to get there
- By car: From the Brenner motorway, take the Bolzano Sud exit and follow the signs for Merano and then Passo Resia along the SS40.
- By train: Travel to Malles station, then continue by bus directly to Curon.
Whether you come to admire its historic bell tower or to enjoy adventures amid sport and nature, Lake Resia will give you a truly unique experience in every season.