The Lavagnina Lakes are inside the natural park of Capanne di Marcarolo and are a perfect location for a break. From Alessandria take the road (statale) that goes to Ovada. Before you get to Ovada, right after Silvano D’Orba follow the indications for Lerma, keep going until you get to another village called Casaleggio Boiro, that’s where you should turn right following the indications for the Lakes. Drive through wherever possible, but be careful as the road does not have any guardrails. Park your car wherever possible and keep walking or cycling. This is ideal for mountain bikes. Itineraries start from here. One goes on the bridge, the other one goes round the first lake, which is called Inferiore. There is about one hour walk which is quite pleasant to do if it’s not too hot. You can then choose a spot and point the river for a nice swim. The water is really clean but quite chilled so be careful when you dip. The local guardie forestali often walk around the park and they can help if anything happens. Enjoy the locations and remember to leave the place as you found it.
On your way back you could stop in Lerma. On the road that crosses the village there is a nice bar called Lermart, with tables outside. The atmosphere inside is quite warm with cool relaxing music and books on the shelves if you have time for a read. Try the beer Menabrea, brewed in Piedmont.
