In addition to the jagged mountains and its beautiful dramatic cliffs, the Dolomites, which are a UNESCO World heritage site, are also known because of the clean alpine lakes. Located across the range’s valleys and plateaus, these lakes are mirrors of the mountains, beautiful and painted in turquoise, emerald, and deep blue. Most lakes are easily accessible with a combination of a car ride and a long rewarding walk into pristine lands. The lakes in the Dolomites feature scenic location where you can enjoy yourself in peaceful surroundings, a and in this article, we’ll show some of the most beautiful gems in this part of Italy.
When to Visit The Dolomites?
The most appropriate period of time to visit the lakes in the Dolomites is at the end of June till the beginning of October when the snow is melted, the paths are open, and the climate is warm and fresh. The most active months are July and August, when the open mountain huts, active water sports, and festivals of surrounding villages are held. September is the best, though, to get smaller crowds. It’s still warm and clear, but not as much as July and August.
Visits in winter are also wonderful: lakes (as Carezza or Misurina) are frozen and can also provide snowy landscapes of the first order, although access can also be restricted, depending on the location.
Nearest Airports
The Dolomites don’t have their own international airport, but several nearby options make them accessible:
- Bolzano Airport (BZO): The closest, small regional hub for domestic and limited European flights.
- Innsbruck Airport (INN), Austria: About 2 hours away, convenient for northern Dolomites.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Around 2.5–3 hours, ideal for southern Dolomites.
- Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN): About 3 hours, a good choice for western Dolomites.
- Munich Airport (MUC), Germany: Larger hub, 4–5 hours by car, useful for extended itineraries.
Helpful Resources For Visiting The Dolomites
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Lago di Resia
There are not many lakes in Europe that are just so unique or easily recognizable as Lake Resia (Lago di Resia). This artificial reservoir is situated close to the Austrian border and there is a ghostly tale about it: the village of Curon was flooded by this reservoir in the mid-20 th century, when a hydroelectric dam collapsed. The only remaining structure, the bell tower of the village church, continues to stand spookily out of the water and forms one of the most recognizable images of the Dolomites.
To get to Lake Resia it is more of a journey down north than the average Dolomites tour, but it is well paid in terms of natural beauty as well as cultural interest. During winter when the lake is frozen, the visitors may walk to the tower on foot. During the summer the lake turns into kitesurfing, sailing and hiking playground. The Val Venosta around is full of history, local cuisine, and apple orchards, which make a visit even more complex.
If you’re looking for a nice place to stay in the area, Lacumontes Lake View offers luxurious apartments with gorgeous views of the lake.
Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee
One of the most photographed places in the South Tyrol is the Lake Braies, which is the Pearl of the Dolomites. It is situated at 1,500 meters above sea level in the 3 Zinnen Dolomites, and it is surrounded by the dramatic Seekofel peak. The turquoise-green water and the traditional wooden boats in the lake make this place the perfect choice for both, nature lovers and photographers.
Dobbiaco or Brunico are the two nearest town from where you can reach the lake either by car or bus. (there are also a lot of parking areas). Interesting fact: There was a local legend concerning the underworld that Lake Braies was connected to the Seukofel mountain; which had a hidden door to the underworld.
When it comes to things to do in the area, you can take a walk along the lake’s 3.5 km-long coast, have a romantic paddle in the wooden boat, hike up to Seekofel and see the whole view, do some birdwatching or picnic by the lakeside. To spend the night, Hotel Lago di Braies is a good place to be directly on the lake and enjoy the panorama right over the water in the cozy style of the alpine, in rooms.
Laghi dei Piani
The Laghi dei Piani are 3 alpine lakes nestled a little beyond the Rifugio Locatelli on the renowned Tre Cime hike, which offer a surprising amount of serenity to hikers. It lies near one of the most famous trails in the Dolomites, but despite this, the lakes are still relatively unfrequented, and it is to them that you can turn to in case you wish to have a more peaceful part of this picturesque scene.
The two major lakes are adjacent to one another, shinning in the color of turquoise and deep blue depending on the light and time of the day. There is a third, smaller lake which involves a slight detour but usually has no people at all and this contributes to the feeling of discovery.
The Laghi degli Piani hike is a moderate difficulty level, and as such, it would be advisable to those who are ready to go through some uphill climbs and rocky paths. The scenery is magnificent when you get there, and the Tre Cime mountains, as well as the rough mountains, and the reflected waters, all make a perfect picture. A visit can be accompanied by a good meal at a nearby Rifugio Locatelli, which is a great resting place of most hikers wishing to avoid the crowds and yet have a classic Dolomites scenery.
Lago di Misurina/Misurinasee
Lago di Misurina is high-altitude alpine lake that lies under the sweep of Cadini and Sorapiss and is commonly referred to as the pearl of Cadore. It has a broad area and mountainous scenery that create a dramatic background when one wants to take photos at dusk and dawn; when there is a clear day, it has cinematic reflections. Misurina can be accessed either by road (in a short drive) by Cortina d’Ampezzo or by Auronzo; the closest convenient tourist centres are Cortina (local train) and the more distant Venice (Marco Polo) and Treviso airports (c. 23 hours).
Misurina serves as a superb starting-point of hikes (little lakeside walks, walks to the Tre Cime area), family picnics, seasonal walk along the beach; in winter the lake turns wild and eerie with its snow caps.
Highlights and activities: rent a rowboat, take a lakeside promenade, go to Misurina where Tre Cime hikes and Rifugio Auronzo are the gates, or taste local alpine cuisine in the local rifugi.
Hotel nearby: Grand Hotel Misurina — old-fashioned lake-side hospitality that provides direct access to lake views and it’s one of the most prominent hotels in Misurina.
Lago di Dobbiaco/Toblacher See
Lake Dobbiaco is a quiet family- and hiking-friendly alpine lake in the Pusteria Valley between the Tre Cime Nature Park and Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. It can easily be reached by car or bike at Dobbiaco and has clearly marked paths around it. Migratory birds also use this lake as a key stop over, thus it is a good destination to birdwatchers.
Another activity that can be carried out is paddle boats rental, bicycles ride via Dobbiaco-Cortina trail, leisurely walks around the lake, birdwatching, or lunching at one of the restaurants located nearby.
During the winter season, cross country skiing paths are placed near the frozen lake. Interesting fact: Gustav Mahler, a composer spent his summers there, nowadays, we can come to the Mahler nature and music park in Dobbiaco. Hotel Union Toblach, near the lake, is a lovely neighboring choice with a spa, a swimming pool, and direct access to ski and hiking trails, which is what accommodation requires.
Lago di Landro/Dürrensee
Lying on the road to Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lake Landro is not so big, though it is no less beautiful with its resounding turquoise water. It occupies 1,400 meters above the sea level and is directly on the Dobbiaco-Cortina cycle path, hence it is a popular rest stop among cyclists and hikers. The crystal clear water is reflected on the nearby mountain range Cristallo, offering some of the most vibrant photo opportunities in the area.
Tourists can row in the chilly waters, sit on the grassy beaches, take a dip during summer, ride their bikes in Dolomite bike path, or take pictures of the beautiful alpine landscape. There are numerous hiking opportunities, and the trails will take one to Tre Cime and Monte Cristallo.
Fun fact: Lake Landro was strategically located in World War I, and the fortifications can be seen there even now. If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, Apartments Lavaredo is only a few steps away, and it has comfortable accommodation and a terrace with lake and mountain view that is the best place to have a quiet retreat.
Lago di Valdaora
Lago di Valdaora (Lake Valdaora) is a 44-hectare man-made reservoir located in Val Pusteria and is now a popular local oasis. The lake was created along the River Rienza, and one is shocked by its extremely blue waters and the snow-topped mountains that surround it; it is particularly unusual in spring when the melting snow brings contrast to the scenery.
In addition to its beauty, Lago di Valdaora has the range of activities. The shoreline is surrounded by walking trails and the Pusterbike Cycle Path, and it is an excellent place to relax or go out cycling. Another activity especially is fishing, where people flock on the shores at an early time of the morning or evening. In case you want to spend some more time in the area, the Hotel Seehof on the lakeside has spa and wellness with a panoramic view.
Lago di Anterselva
Located near the end of the Antholz Valley, Lake Anterselva is the third-largest natural lake in South Tyrol. This is a gem of green of emerald color, with forests and mountains on all sides, lying 1,642 meters near the border with Austria. It is reachable by driving Brunico through Anterselva, and parking in the lake.
Biathlon area is also known to host biathlon center, international competitions and visitors are given the opportunity to have a taste of biathlon shooting during summer. Hiking around the lake, wildlife viewing, Nordic walking, and picnicking. During winter snow, shoe hikes are magical. If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, Sport Hotel Wildgall is a contemporary alpine hotel, which boasts comfortable rooms nearby, right on the lakeshore.
Lago d’Antorno
Lago d’Antorno is a little alpine lake that is quite unknown to the Dolomites located quietly along the road to Tre Cime. Passed over by a number of tourists who are always in a hurry to get to their more well known places, this serene location provides an opportunity of taking in the mountain beauty without the hustles that accompany the rest. The lake is encircled with grasses and conifers and the jagged silhouettes of Cadini di Misurina, and the peaks of Tre Cime Nature Park.
One of the best things about Antorno Lake is its accessibility. The lake has a free parking area adjacent to it and thus, is an ideal destination to families, leisure travellers or individuals who are in a rush. And the lake is also the beginning of many hikes, perfect should you not feel like going to Rifugio Auronzo by the toll road. Wildflowers provide a colorful scene to the shoreline in spring and summer, and the golden larches are very impressive during the fall to make a photo.
You can sit and watch the views around you, have a picnic on the lakeside or an adventure into the mountains. If you’re looking for a place to stay, Albergo Chalet is a fine modern hotel that has everything you might need for a nature getaway.
Lago di Issengo/Issinger Weiher
Falzes is some 1,000 meters above sea level, and Lake Issengo is a smaller but popular swimming lake. It is considered to be one of the few pond biotopes in the Dolomites and is treasured because of its clean waters, flora and fauna. There is special caution to preserve the ecosystem and this makes it perfect to nature lovers.
Swimming in warm waters that are not too cold, sunbathing on the grassy beach, renting paddleboats, or being part of the adventure park adjacent to the lake are all possible ways of spending time by summer visitors. Other attractions include birdwatching, fishing and wellness experience (due to a natural Kneipp path). The winter transforms the location into a snowy and silent haven. Hotel Falken in the nearby Falzes is a family hotel with wellness and easy access to the lake, thus a convenient base to stay during your visit.
Lago di Valparola
This small alpine lake is quietly situated on the edge of the road just beyond Passo Valparola and remains an uknown secret to most who pass by Val Gardena and Rifugio Lagazuoi. Lago di Valparola is easily acessible, but more often than not, delightfully quiet, and makes a perfect place for a few moments of rest, a picnic, or meditation.
The lake itself is small, but its location is stereotypical Dolomites: mountain peaks on the horizons, clean alpine air, and immobile waters which reflect the landscape. Its strategic position along the way to Passo Falzarego causes it to be a natural destination to all travelers visiting the famous Lagazuoi cable car where they can catch some of the best glimpses of the Marmolada glacier and Odle/Geisler peaks.
If you want to relax and enjoy plain mountain scenery, Lago di Valparola comes as a cool escape. It is also well positioned as an activity in a Dolomites itinerary of places of greater fame so as to have visitors remember that it is the smaller and lesser-known lakes, which can create the most memorable impressions. If you’re looking for a unique accommodation option nearby, Camping Sass Dlacia offers a unique luxurious camping experience located near the lake.
Lago di Carezza/Karersee
The most renowned of the small lakes in the Dolomites is Lago di Carezza (Karersee) – with its jewel-blue, even turquoise waters where mountains of the Latemar reflect. The lake changes colour depending on the season as well as light hence attracting photographers and day trippers.
Carezza is located above the village of Nova Levante/Welschnofen, it can be reached by car (or around 40-60 minutes) from Bolzano or also by regional buses which regulary serve the Dolomites roads. On the international flights, major near airports are Innsbruck, Verona and Venice based on the route.
A few good reasons to visit include the short circular trail around the lake and the coloration of the seasons (deep blue during calm weather, alpine green during others) which are truly memorable. Activities & highlights feature walking through the boardwalk, having picnics overlooking Latemar, mountain biking, hiking through the lake to the alpine meadows, and snowshoeing in winter when the roads are less busy.
Hotel nearby: Hotel Adler Dolomiti is a traditional mountain-hotel comfort and lack of fuss when it comes to reaching the lake, as well as the local trails.
Laghetto di Fiè/Völser Weiher
Völser Weiher (Lago di Fiè / Fiè Pond) is a delightful little pond in the lee of the Sciliar massif (Schlern) and the Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm). It is a great option when going on a quick nature outing: the water is still, a stroll is easy, and the orchards and alpine meadows surrounding it make it look like a complete no-stress family vacation. The pond is an easy drive or bike ride away (2km) of Kastelruth/Castelrotto and about 20-30 minutes by car or local buses/seasonal buses and shuttles take the Seiser Alm region.
Bolzano (regional) and Innsbruck, and Verona/Venice are the closest international airports nearby. This lake provides an easy, small Dolomites experience since you can store your luggage in the sun and go for a swim (during summer), and because there are shots to be taken as the sun goes down, and paths leading to Seiser Alm are easy in order to take walks further.
Hotel nearby: Hotel Lamm, a classic Kastelruth hotel or family-run guesthouses around Fiè.
Lago di Sorapis
Lake Sorapis is a most enchanted place of the Dolomites, which is situated almost at 1,900 meters and can only be reached by foot. It is surreal Turquoise because of the glacial minerals suspended in the water and the background of the rugged peaks is an unforgettable one. To get there, the hike begins between Passo Tre Croci, a few minutes drive or bus journey out of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Some things to do in the area feature going on the mod-challenging hike (approximately 2-hour round trip), lounging on the banks of the lake, taking some photos on the popular Rifugio Vandelli view point, picnicing and enjoying the serenity, or even taking a day trip to the gorgeous town of Cortina.
Fun fact: Sorapis is sometimes referred to as one of the most Instagrammable lakes in the Dolomites and the whole of Italy, despite being one of the most remote ones, which allows the lake to maintain its serenity. Hotel close by: Hotel Cristallo Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is a luxurious place, is a nice place to base the hike on.
Lago di Molveno
Lake Molveno, which lies in the foot of the Brenta Dolomites, has been repeatedly crowned as the most beautiful lake in Italy. Forests, meadows, the bosoms of the Paganella range border its deep blue waters. Compared to smaller alpine lakes in the Dolomites, Molveno is a resort with a lot of activities of all ages. How to get there: Molveno can be arrived at by a car and within a distance of 40 minutes of Trento, the nearest major airports are Verona and Venice.
Activities: swim in specific beach zones, hire pedal boats or kayaks, carry out lazy walks along the lakeside, go paragliding in the nearby Paganella, or wander along mountain bike and walking trails in Brenta Dolomites. Paganella also has ski-sloes close by in winter which makes Molveno a round the year resort. Interesting fact: Molveno has not only been admired due to its beauty but also the quality of water has been termed as one of the best in Italy, ranking in the list of cleanest water in Italy.
Hotel nearby: Grand Hotel Molveno, which has a direct access to the lake and has a classic look and feel is an ideal place to stay.
Lago Anterselva/Antholzer See
Antholzer See (Antholzer See/Lago di Anterselva) lies like a postcard in the broad valley of the Antholz, beneath the Rieserferner Group. It’s a smooth, green alpine lake; high mountain ridges and mornings of silence. It features crystal clear reflections picture, soft strolls along the shore and the wintering biathlon culture of each year around the neighboring Anterselva/Antholz (a big cross-country/biathlon venue).
To get to the lake, Brunico/Bruneck or Dobbiaco/Toblach (regional trains and buses) are the nearest convenient hubs and Bolzano (small regional), Innsbruck (AT) or Verona/Venice are the nearest major airports with international flights.
Summer time is good to enjoy quiet swims, canoeing and alpine walks; autumn is the season when the valley is a mirror and larch gold; winter transforms the valley into a Nordic-ski and biathlon resort. Activities feature flat lakeside walking paths, birdwatching, simple family walks, photography during sunrise and using Antholz as a starting point to more challenging mountain paths.
Hotel nearby: Hotel Seehof – a hotel at the lake shore, from where the lake is easily acessible.
Lago di Tovel
Lake Tovel (Lago di Tovel) is among the jewel of the Brenta Dolomites tucked between the Adamello Brenta Nature Park. The area is more isolated compared to the most popular mountains of the UNESCO Dolomites, as the shaggy woods are surrounding the glittering lake. Tovel is particularly renowned concerning legends: decades the waters were so famous to have turned red because of a certain kind of algae. The phenomenon does not occur any longer, but the tales remain, giving the lake an aura of mystery.
Going to Lake Tovel nowadays is all about nature. The lake is huge to support all types of activities such as picnics, casual walks along the lakeside, canoeing, and swimming during the summer. Easy to follow paths go around the water and lead off to the woods to provide both leisurely strolls and more in-depth hikes. Due to the fact that it belongs to a reserve zone, it is possible to see the animals regularly (you can see deer, alpine birds, or even the remains of brown bears, which are tracked in the park).
Lake Tovel is the type of place where you do not feel connected to the world. Its combination of calmness, natural abundance and cultural heritage makes it an exclusive destination to people who would like to make a slight detour to Dolomites.
Lago di Federa
Last but not least we conclude this list of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites with Lago di Federa, one of the most photogenic mountain lakes of the Dolomites, but it takes some determination to get there. The lake is at the foot of Cortina d’Ampezzo and is only reachable by foot and the shortest path to the lake will take 1.5 or 2 hours. The work is however rewarded handsomely. Located at the foot of the dramatic Croda da Lago mountain, the lake has a reflection of ragged mountains especially in the early morning or evening.
In contrast to lakes found on the road, Lago di Fedra is distant and wild. The walks which wind to it are among the prettiest of the kind in the country, especially that which runs over Passo Giau, by Forcella Ambrizola, and opens panoramic views as it goes. Upon arrival at the lake, both the photographers and hikers will enjoy the iconic compositions of the western banks of the lake.
It is not a place to visit in a hurry as it consumes half a day. However, when there is time to spare, Lago di Federa provides one of the most rewarding Dolomite experiences to the traveller. It is a place that is both thrilling and alluring- not so much about convenience and more about enjoying the ride as much as the end of it.
How did you like this list of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites? Did you ever visit any of them? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
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