The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy, are renowned for their jagged peaks, panoramic valleys, and authentic natural beauty. For those eager to travel to the Dolomites, this region is a paradise for anyone looking to slow down and connect with nature, offering views ranging from meadows to dense forests to rugged cliffs. Some of the most unforgettable features of the Dolomites are its stunning alpine lakes.
These lakes, with their clear waters and relaxing surroundings, are key to the region’s renowned beauty, offering peaceful retreats at the feet of their dramatic mountain backdrops. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to six of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, each offering a unique way to experience why this part of Italy is so adored.
Lago di Carezza: The Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites
Located in the Latemar mountain range in Trentino–Alto Adige, Lago di Carezza is known for its striking emerald-green color. The way this lake reflects the surrounding forests and mountains has been attributed, via myth, to a sorcerer that fell in love with a water nymph and created the lake’s colorful appearance, giving it the nickname, “Rainbow Lake”.
This makes it the perfect setting for hiking, with trails for hikers of all levels and scenic views at every turn. In the winter, the Alpine hills are perfect for snowshoeing and skiing around the lake and enjoying those quiet peaceful moments that winter creates. Make sure to take pictures, as you will want to remember just how beautiful this spot is.
Nearby, the village of Nova Levante offers a glimpse into the regional culture, blending Italian and Austrian traditions as both peoples are present in the region. This mix of traditions is highlighted in the seasonal festivals like Krampus, around christmastime, and the food, like hearty stews and hot drinks.
Our team loves this lake so much that it is included in our curated small group trip to the Dolomites, allowing travelers to experience the area authentically.
Lago di Braies: The Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes
Lago di Braies can be found within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, also in Alto Adige. This lake’s turquoise waters are framed by the towering Croda del Becco mountain. The beauty of this lake is renowned, and it has often been referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes”.
This, and its expanse of well-marked trails, makes it a popular spot for nature-loving travelers. Boat rentals are also popular, as the best way to see the true beauty of Lago di Braies is from the water itself, being able to see the towering peaks of the Dolomites all around.
The area is also a spiritual destination, with the small Lago di Braies Chapel situated on the lake’s edge, creating a place of reflection and a reminder of the area’s historical significance as a place of sanctuary during World War II. Nearby, Villabassa (Niederdorf) and Dobbiaco (Toblach) are picturesque villages known for their charming architecture, Alpine traditions, and warm hospitality.
Elements of the local culture include local craftsmanship in wood carving and traditional Alpine architecture.
Lago di Sorapis: A Hidden Gem with Milky Blue Waters
Lago di Sorapis is located in the Veneto region of Italy near Cortina d’Ampezzo, a town known for its luxury winter sports resort. This lake has a milky blue color as a result of glacial sediments, and set against the steep cliffs of the adjacent Sorapiss mountain, it is one of the most dramatic settings in the Dolomites.
Whether exploring the wilderness through the region’s trails or enjoying a picnic, this baby-blue lake is the perfect spot for appreciating the natural beauty of northern Italy. The area is known for its rifugi (mountain huts) and local foods like polenta, casunziei (beet-filled ravioli), or hearty stews–perfect for refueling after a hike.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, a short distance from Lago di Sorapis, is home to traditional Ampezzan culture, a unique blend of Ladin, Italian, and Austrian influences. The Ladin language, spoken by some of the local population, is a remnant of the region’s ancient roots and it can be readily found in the areas surrounding most of the lakes on this list.
Lago di Misurina: Wellness and Alpine Views
Also in the Veneto region of Italy, Lago di Misurina has panoramic views of the surrounding villages and the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo mountains. It, like many of the other lakes on this list, has exceptional hiking trails. And it is perfect for outdoorsy activities all year round, including ice skating and cross-country skiing in the winter–or boating and fishing in the warmer months.
The area is known for its pure air that many believe have health benefits, which has made it a hub for wellness tourism. Another iconic characteristic of the lake is the Grand Hotel Misurina, a historic building on the lake’s shore that reflects the area’s rich past as a high-society retreat.
This luxury hotel has attracted travelers from all over Europe since the early 1900s, and most importantly it is a quintessential example of the Alpine architecture that can be seen throughout the region.
Lago di Antermoia: A Serene and Remote Alpine Retreat
Another beautiful lake in Trentino–Alto Adige, Lago di Antermoia is in the heart of the Catinaccio/Rosengarten mountain range.
This remote, glacial lake is known for its clear waters and serene, isolated atmosphere. It is a great spot for adventurous hikers, due to its rugged peaks and rocky landscapes. One of the more challenging trails is only reachable via a steep path, but the trek rewards you with spectacular Alpine views of the sparkling water.
For a more easy-going adventurer, Lago di Antermoia can be a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot to enjoy villages like the nearby Vigo di Fassa, where visitors can explore the Ladin Museum, which offers insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Ladin people, including their folklore, language, and traditional way of life. This is why this lake is also included in our small group trip to the Dolomites.
Lago Fedaia: Majestic Views at the Foot of Marmolada Glacier
Situated at the foot of the Marmolada Glacier, the highest peak in the Dolomites, Lago Fadaia straddles the border of Trentino–Alto Adige and Veneto. It is a man-made reservoir that creates a truly unique setting for outdoor activities due to its proximity to the iconic glacier. Hikes in and around the glacier are particularly popular, as are skiing and snowboarding.
The Marmolada Glacier is also a centerpiece of climate change, as scientists are concerned it will be gone by 2040. This fact has made it even more deeply cherished by the local people and serves as a reminder of why sustainability, in life and travel, are so important.
Skiing, hiking, or snowshoeing on a glacier is a bucket list item for many, as it demonstrates the true power of nature and the grandeur of winter in the mountains. Because of this, Lago Fedaia is a crown jewel of the region and highly recommended for those that want to see the most dramatic scenes that the Dolomites have to offer.
See the Lakes of the Dolomites for Yourself
The Dolomites’ lakes are more than just scenic stops; they are windows into the region’s incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
From the striking turquoise waters of Lago di Sorapis to the peaceful shores of Lago di Misurina, these lakes offer an authentic way to experience the Dolomites’ majestic landscape. Whether you’re drawn to serene hikes, local folklore, or simply want to soak in the alpine views, each lake provides a unique glimpse into this UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into the Dolomites, consider joining one of our curated group trip to the region, or let our travel designers create a personalized itinerary that connects you with the area’s hidden gems, local culture, and breathtaking scenery. Let us guide you to explore the Dolomites in a way that’s truly unforgettable.
