Lago Grande di Avigliana (Piscina Naturale)

Lago Grande di Avigliana is a glacial moraine lake on Corso Laghi in Avigliana, about 25 km west of Turin in Piedmont, Italy, and is the closest lake bathing to the city. It lies within the Parco Naturale dei Laghi di Avigliana, a protected area of two lakes surrounded by reed beds, woods and low hills at the mouth of the Susa Valley. The Piscina Naturale is a natural swimming area and bathing establishment on the shore, with lake water rather than chlorinated pool water, grassy and sandy banks rather than a long sea beach, and a gently sheltered shape typical of an enclosed lake. The water is fresh, often green-blue, and calm, with no surf, although afternoon breezes can ruffle the surface. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-oriented, with locals from Turin and the Susa Valley using it on summer days for swimming, sunbathing and picnics. Amenities include a lifeguard and support staff on Saturday afternoons from 15:00 to 18:00 between July and early September, as reported, and swimming is possible every day outside a supervised area, so visitors should treat unsupervised days with caution. Canoeing and lakeside walking trails add variety, and the park information line is +39 011 9313000. Facilities such as restrooms, food and loungers can vary by season and operator, and visitors should confirm what is open before travelling. Access is easy from Turin. Regional Trenitalia trains run from Torino Porta Nuova to Avigliana in about 25 to 30 minutes, followed by a walk of roughly 3 km or a short taxi ride to the lake. By car, the A32 motorway reaches Avigliana in about 30 minutes, and roadside parking near the lake fills on hot weekends, so early arrival is advised. The lakeshore paths are also good for walking or cycling, and the medieval centre of Avigliana and the Sacra di San Michele abbey on the nearby ridge make natural additions to a day out. The bathing season runs from about June to early September, with the warmest and busiest weeks in July and August.