Lake Santa Giustina in Val di Non

In the heart of Val di Non, in Trentino, Lake Santa Giustina is one of the most characteristic landscapes of the valley: a large artificial reservoir surrounded by apple orchards, forests, villages and deep gorges carved by the Noce stream and its tributaries.

The lake was created in the 1950s with the construction of the Santa Giustina dam, one of the main hydroelectric facilities in the area. Today the reservoir still plays an important role in energy production and water resource management, but it is also an interesting destination for those seeking nature, panoramas, excursions and outdoor activities in Val di Non.

The shores of Lake Santa Giustina alternate between rocky walls and gorges with more easily accessible green areas. Among the places not to be missed are Cles and Dos di Pez, Castel Cles, Novella River Park, the Santa Giustina hermitage and the Plaze area, one of the most popular areas to spend a few hours near the water.

What to see at Lake Santa Giustina

Santa Giustina Dam

The Santa Giustina dam is the symbol of the lake. Over 150 meters high, it is located at the point where the Noce gorge narrows and offers a beautiful view of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains.

The area of Dermulo, where the dam is located, is also the starting point for an excursion to the ancient Santa Giustina hermitage.

Castel Cles and Cles

Above the lake, on a hillock surrounded by apple orchards, stands Castel Cles, one of the symbols of Val di Non. The castle is linked to the Cles family and the figure of Bernardo Clesio, Prince-Bishop of Trentino.

To admire the panoramic view of the lake, reach the Dos di Pez, in Cles: from the terrace your gaze embraces the reservoir, the castle and the slopes of the valley. It is one of the most beautiful and easily accessible panoramic points in the area.

Novella River Park

If you want to see up close the gorges that characterize the landscape of the lake, the Novella River Park is one of the experiences not to be missed.

The trail follows the canyon carved by the Novella stream between rock walls, forests, walkways and passages in the gorge. It is a very special excursion that allows you to discover the wildest side of Val di Non.

Santa Giustina Hermitage

In the Noce gorge, below the dam, are the remains of the Santa Giustina hermitage. From the village of Dermulo a path descends through the apple orchards to the gorge, where the ancient walls of the hermitage are still visible.

It is a short excursion but with some steep sections: appropriate shoes and a minimum of attention are required.

The Plaze

The Plaze is the most suitable spot to experience the lake up close. Here you will find a green area with lawn, spaces for play, seasonal services and access to the water.

It is a good choice for a relaxing break, a picnic or a day outdoors. In the area you will also find the Radicosauro, a curious sculpture made from roots recovered from the shores of the lake.

What to do on Lake Santa Giustina

Kayaking and canoeing

The most spectacular way to discover the lake is probably by kayak or canoe. Guided excursions in the gorges and towards the Novella stream canyon are organized in certain periods.

Paddling on the water, you observe the rock walls, forests and gorges of Val di Non from a completely different perspective.

Walks through the apple orchards

Around Lake Santa Giustina there is no shortage of trails and secondary roads through the apple orchards. They are particularly charming in spring, when the apple trees are in bloom, and in autumn, during the harvest season.

For a simple panoramic walk, Dos di Pez in Cles is one of the best choices. For more demanding hikes you can instead head towards the gorges and the hermitage.

Relax at the Plaze

If you are looking for a day without plans, the Plaze is the right place to stop by the lake. You can alternate between a walk, a picnic and a few hours of relaxation in the green.

Swimming is subject to the indications present on site: before entering the water it is therefore important to check the signage and current conditions.

When to visit Lake Santa Giustina

Spring is perfect for admiring the blooming of the apple trees and the panoramic views of the valley.

Summer is the best season for kayaking, walks and outdoor days.

Autumn offers spectacular colors in the apple orchards and forests and is ideal for excursions and photography.

In winter the landscape becomes quieter and more alpine, but some trails and seasonal services may be closed.

How to get to Lake Santa Giustina

The lake is easily reached by car from Trento, following the SS 43 of Val di Non towards Cles. For the dam area, use Dermulo as a reference, while for the recreational area follow the signs for the Plaze.

You can also arrive by the Trento-Malé-Mezzana railway, getting off at the stations of Cles, Tassullo or Dermulo and continuing with local connections or on foot, depending on your destination.

Lake Santa Giustina: useful information

• Where it is located: Val di Non, Trentino
• Main towns: Cles, Dermulo, Tassullo, Revò
• Ideal for: panoramic views, hiking, families, kayaking and photography
• Recommended period: from spring to autumn
• Panoramic point: Dos di Pez, in Cles
• For relaxation: Plaze area
• For an excursion: Novella River Park and Santa Giustina hermitage

FAQ about Lake Santa Giustina

Where is Lake Santa Giustina located?
It is located in Val di Non, in Trentino, between Cles and Dermulo.

What to see at Lake Santa Giustina?
Santa Giustina Dam, Castel Cles, Dos di Pez, Novella River Park, Santa Giustina hermitage and the Plaze.

Can you swim in Lake Santa Giustina?
Swimming depends on the areas and local regulations. It is necessary to follow the signage and current indications present on site.

Can you kayak on Lake Santa Giustina?
Yes, the lake is suitable for kayaking and canoeing under certain conditions and in permitted areas. Guided excursions organized by local operators are also available.

What is the best panoramic point?
The Dos di Pez in Cles offers one of the most beautiful views of the lake, with Castel Cles and the apple orchards of Val di Non in the background.

How long does it take to visit?
To see the main panoramic points a few hours are enough. If you want to add an excursion to Novella River Park or Santa Giustina hermitage, it is worth dedicating to the lake a full day.