by Marcella Fumagalli

 

There are any number of itineraries – involving canoe or bicycle - to take in the delights of Nature and the environs of the lake and its inhabitants. We’re in the magnificent Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve, at Lago di Mezzola, where Valchiavenna itself opens up. This protected area extends over around 1500 hectares, and sits at an altitude of 200m above sea level. It’s official history dates back to 1983 when the Lombardy Region established the Nature Reserve as part of the implementation of the Ramsar Convention of 1971, concerning the protection of wetlands of international significance, as vital environments for the conservation of aquatic and migratory birds. It took some years and a series of declarations and it was only in 1996 that the “Plan for the Reserve” for the protection of the territory was to become a reality. I’d like to suggest somen memorable outings to appreciate the lake in a highly original fashion by indicating some aquatic excursions by canoe. The trips are best undertaken in the morning when the wind is usually insignificant and the lake is at its calmest.

You can very handily hire your canoe from Gianni’s kiosk at Campo Mezzola then head northwards to the mouth of the river Mera where you move along the Canal di Mezzola in order to arrive at our destination, the Pozzo di Riva. Here you’ll discover a magnificent stretch of water, very often an intense blue and surrounded by reeds and the Giumello pastures.

Heading in a north-westerly direction towards Pozzo Modrone you reach a blissful corner recognised as being the very deepest point of the lake. From here you head up the calm, soothing waters of the river Mera, surrounded by weeping willows and impressive marsh straws, until you discover the magical setting of the Tempietto di S. Fedele, a magnificent testament to Romanesque architecture. Following the visit we take to the canoe again along an ever-widening Mera before reaching the 13 th century church of S. Giovanni all’Archetto on foot.

Heading off from the kiosk it’s also possible to reach Dascio, south-west of the lake. You can paddle away to your heart’s content, all along the reed beds, as far as the small Dascio lake and then by following the walled opposite bank arrive at the small and attractive Riva Bianca beach with its beautiful waterfall. Little to add: simply make the most of the lake’s natural environs and spend a few tranquil hours discovering mesmerising light and extraordinary, little-known outlooks.