BEST LAKES IN THE DOLOMITES TO VISIT
The Dolomites, a mountain range in Northern Italy listed as a World Heritage site, are amazing natural sights to visit in South Tyrol/Südtirol, Trentino, and Belluno. But it is not only the mountains – the lakes in the Dolomites are also breathtaking.
While I normally vouch for Switzerland as the most beautiful scenery in Europe (or probably even in the world), the Dolomites are unique and can actually compete with Switzerland.
I admit I am all about the lakes, so I chased them. I chased them in the Dolomites and the rest of Northern Italy. Road tripping wasn’t always fun in Italy (have you ever driven at night in the mountains in Italy? I don’t recommend it). However, I was willing to accept all that because I wanted to find the most stunning lakes in Italy, and I had some questions I wanted to be answered.
Which is the best lake in (Northern) Italy? Which one can keep up with the lakes in Switzerland? Are the lakes in the Dolomites really as beautiful as I imagined them to be? And if so, which are the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites to visit?
The lakes are as pretty as they can be. Yes, there are some lakes as pretty as in Switzerland (and even as pretty as in Canada).
Here are some pictures to prove to you and some basic information, so you know what to expect when visiting the most beautiful mountain lakes in Italy.
Info: Many places in South Tyrol have Italian and German names, as South Tyrol was part of Austria until the first World War. Many places have a third name (Landin, which is a regional language), and I have added the English name for you.
Lago di Dobbiaco / Toblacher See / Lake Dobbiaco
- Altitude: 1,117 meters above sea level
- Surface: 14.3 hectares
- Depth: max. 3.5 meters
This pretty, but often overlooked, lake is in a perfect location between the other lakes and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
With its beautiful color, it is pretty to look at. It takes about 2 hours to leisurely stroll around the lake and see it in all its beauty. So, head to the restaurant afterward to enjoy a drink. In summer, you can rent boats!
This is also a popular place for people interested in flora and fauna, as it provides a lot of information about them. Also, bird watchers are here to see migrating birds that stop by in the spring and fall.
This would also be my top tip for staying if you want to explore the beautiful South Tyrol region.
- Though it is a mountain lake, it is very easily accessible – you can get there by car (paid parking is available) or public transportation and then get right out at the lake.
Lago di Braies / Pragser Wildsee / Lake Prags
- Altitude: 1,496 meters above sea level
- Surface: 31 hectares
- Depth: 36 meters
Lago di Braies is often referred to as the most beautiful lake in South Tyrol. This lake is, for sure, the most famous one.
To enjoy the lake in its full beauty, I recommend walking around it, which takes about 1-2 hours (shore length is about 3 km), as this stunning lake presents itself in many different shades.
If you want to spend more time on the lake, rent a boat in the summer months and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the water.
- There is a big car park in front of the lake (the day ticket is 6€-8€). You can also get there by public transportation and, after a few steps, you are already at the lake.
- Read more: Travel guide for Lago di Braies
Lake Carezzo / Karersee / Lake Carezzo
- Altitude: 1,520 meters above sea level
- Surface: 12 hectares
- Depth: between 6 and 22 meters (depending on the season; in summer months, it normally reaches its highest water level)
There are different opinions about whether this or Lago di Braies is the most beautiful lake in South Tyrol, but I am #TeamLakeCarezzo. It is a tough choice, but in the end, this one wins as it is more unique.
The mountains and the fir trees’ backdrop is probably the best possible background you could ask for.
Nature is at its best here, though the lake is small and walking around it only takes 10-15 minutes.
Read more on Lago di Carezza
INFO: However, it seems that the lake area has suffered a lot after some heavy storms, and it does not look the same anymore. However, if you are close by, I still recommend visiting it.
- As a mountain lake, getting there takes some time. You can get there by public transportation (bus) or car – after a ride in the mountains. Once you have parked or gotten off the bus, you walk a few steps, and then you will see it – the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites.
Lago di Sorapis / Lake Sorapis
- Altitude: 1,923 meters above sea level
Admittedly, this lake is not located in South Tyrol but in the province of Belluno – just a few miles from the other lakes.
It is probably the least famous, though the most unique. After hiking to the lake myself, I can see why more people do not come – and the only reason can be that the hike isn’t the easiest.
Though I actually chose a difficult one by accident (aka bad preparation), even the easiest hike takes around 2-3 hours (one way), and the path isn’t the best. However, this makes the lake even less visited, even though it is absolutely gorgeous and there is no need to hide.
In the summertime, the lake is crowded. Given its small size, you should hike there early in the morning.
Or choose the difficult hike, which I actually don’t recommend as there will not be many people around. In this case, start your hike from the parking spot with the abandoned hotel near the major hiking path – Passo Tre Croci. Whichever hike you opt for, good walking/hiking boots are essential, and walking sticks can be useful, too.
Looking at it reminds me how badly I want to explore more Canadian lakes.
READ MORE: Lago di Sorapis
As you can see, the Dolomites have some amazing lakes – it would be too sad if you don’t add them to your Northern Italy itinerary.
Which lake is the most beautiful in your opinion?
- READ MORE: Here is my post on the perfect Dolomites itinerary!
