What You Need to Know: Useful Information
Hidden away in the rugged foothills of the Carnic Prealps, Lago di Barcis (Lake Barcis) is a breathtaking spectacle of color. This artificial reservoir, created in 1954 for hydroelectric power, sits at an altitude of 402 meters above sea level within the province of Pordenone. While other alpine basins in Northern Italy contend with gridlocked traffic and crowded shorelines, Barcis remains an intensely peaceful, low-key sanctuary. It is famous across the region for its luminous, striking emerald-green water – a vibrant hue caused by the unique suspension of fine limestone sediment washing down from the surrounding limestone peaks.
Getting There
By Car:
From Pordenone, drive north along the SR251 highway. The road climbs smoothly through the valley, passing through a series of modern tunnels before opening up directly onto the lakefront in less than 40 minutes. It is a highly panoramic, straightforward drive.
By Public Transit:
Take a train to the mainline station in Pordenone. From the bus terminal directly outside the station, catch the Line P20 regional bus operated by TPL FVG, which connects the city directly to the village of Barcis in about an hour.
Below you'll find the location marked on Google Maps. Click on it to open the location directly on your device's maps.
Useful Contacts
- Barcis Tourist Information Office: +39 0427 76300 | [email protected]
What to Pack & Safety Rules
- Bring sturdy, slip-resistant trail shoes if you intend to cross the Tibetan bridge or walk through the humid Forra del Cellina. Even on sunny days, the deep gorges trap moisture, leaving the stone steps and steel grates slick.
- Swimming (balneazione) is strictly regulated or outright prohibited in large sections of the lake due to sudden drops in temperature, unseen underwater currents from the dam, and hydro-power operations. Always check local shoreline signage before wading in.
The “Hidden Gem“
To experience the true wildness of the area, follow the signs from the lake toward the Dint Trail (Sentiero del Dint). This short, forest-shaded loop trail takes you up into the limestone crigs overlooking the lake. The real reward is the Dint Skywalk – a series of dramatic, metallic viewing platforms cantilevered directly over the deep limestone sinkholes and the roaring Cellina gorge far below. One of the platforms features a completely transparent glass floor, giving you the heart-pounding sensation of floating directly between the green mountain canopy and the churning emerald waters below.
