Italian Dolomites: A closer look at 7 must-see lakes
Located in the northern Italian Alps, the Dolomites are home to numerous laghi... Landscapes, access, activities and altitude – join us as we explore the 7 most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites!
Located in the northern Italian Alps, the Dolomites mountain range is home to numerous laghi... Landscapes, access, activities and altitude – join us as we explore the 7 most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites!
1. Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee) is an alpine gem, nestled at 1496 metres altitude. Renowned for the beauty of its turquoise waters, it's also an incredible destination for trekkers and photographers...
Why? The lake is part of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site! During your visit, you'll be able to admire renowned peaks – including the Croda del Becco (accessible via hiking trail from the lake).
For another perspective and to admire the landscape from the water, don't hesitate to rent a rowing boat – expect around €50 for 45 minutes of navigation (maximum 5 people on board). In summer, swimming is permitted, but the water temperature remains quite cold!
Practical information Altitude: 1496 m Best time to visit: around 7 a.m. (before boat rental opens) if you want to capture untouched photos, or after 7:30 p.m. Hiking time: the trek takes approximately 2 hours; a full loop around the lake is 1 hour 30 minutes To note: paid parking. Be aware that from a certain time onwards, access may be restricted if the car park is full. |
2. Lago di Dobbiaco
Formed by a landslide, Lago di Dobbiaco sits in the heart of the Tre Cime (Three Peaks) Natural Park – a 11,891-hectare area in the northern Dolomites. The lago can be explored by rowboat or pedalo, but also by curling or ice skating in winter on its frozen surface!
The lake is also renowned for its abundant wildlife and flora, as well as its five bunkers, built under Mussolini in the 1930s. Used during the Cold War, these structures were abandoned in the early 1990s and are open for visits.
Practical information Altitude: 1275 m Best time to visit: if you want to capture good photos, arrive before 11 a.m. (when boat rental opens). Hiking time: 1 hour to complete a loop around the lake To note: paid parking (€2) |
3. Lago di Landro (Dürrensee)
Known for its emerald waters, Lago di Landro (or Dürrensee) is a magnificent expanse of water bordered by mountains. Easily accessible, it's very popular in summer for swimming. Indeed, during the summer season, the water level drops, meaning the lake becomes shallower and warms up quickly, functioning as a natural beach! On its shores, you'll notice a metal wheel embedded in the stone, a relic from World War I.
Practical information Altitude: 1406 m Best time to visit: between April and October Hiking time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to complete a loop around the lake To note: free parking |
4. Lago d'Antorno
Renowned for its colours and reflections, Lago d'Antorno is also a hotspot for bird-watching enthusiasts. Recognised as the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, it offers breathtaking views of the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Hiking, photography, wildlife observation or fishing – the lake offers plenty of outdoor activities.
Practical information Altitude: 1866 m Best time to visit: if you want to enjoy the lake's reflections during peak season, opt for the morning (for beautiful photos). Hiking time: 30 minutes to complete a loop around the lake To note: free parking. In autumn, certain sections of the trail may be icy or snow-covered (bring crampons) |
5. Lago di Misurina
Located in the province of Belluno, Lago di Misurina is renowned for its stunning blue colour and numerous hiking trails. Among them? An excursion to the Fanes waterfall – which cascades down 90 metres!
Another must-do trek? The via Ferrata Ivano Dibona, a longer hike (but without major difficulties) that allows you to walk in the footsteps of Italian troops during World War II.
In winter, this part of the Dolomites offers opportunities for mountaineering or skiing in Italie – while the frozen surface of lago di Misurina allows for ice skating!
Practical information Altitude: 1754 m Best time to visit: spring, to enjoy the lake's beautiful colours (before the tourist surge) Hiking time: 1 hour to complete a loop around the lake |
6. Lago di Sorapis
Rising at 1923 metres altitude, Lago di Sorapis attracts visitors from around the world, thanks to its distinctive water colour – both milky and turquoise at once… To fully appreciate its unique hues? You'll first need to complete a two-hour hike!
The main itinerary starts from Passo Tre Croci (near Refuge Vandelli). Except for a few tricky sections near the end, the trail doesn't require advanced technical skills.
Practical information Altitude: 1923 m Hiking time: the lake is accessible only after approximately 2 hours of hiking (suitable for all hikers), then 1 hour to complete a loop around it. To note: free parking. Arrive early to ensure you have a spot. |
7. Lago di Carezza (Karersee)
Lago di Carezza (also known as Karersee or The Emerald of the Dolomites) is a lake often described as "enchanting" because of its splendid and magical reflections… Located at 1560 metres altitude in South Tyrol, the lake is fed by underground springs (whose volume varies with the seasons).
Practical information Altitude: 1560 m Best time to visit: in the morning, to avoid crowds and enjoy a clear view (the weather is often overcast in the afternoon). Hiking time: 30 minutes to complete a loop around the lake To note: small paid parking (€1). Arrive early to ensure you have a spot. |
FAQ
How do I get to the Dolomites?
From France, you can reach the Dolomites by train via Italian cities (such as Bolzano or Venice). By air, from Venice or Verona (for example) or via direct flights from major French cities (Paris, Marseille, Lyon, etc.). A road trip is also possible (via Switzerland or Austria).
What's the best time to visit the Dolomites?
The best time to visit the Dolomites runs from June to September, with pleasant weather and colourful landscapes thanks to flowering plants. If you want to avoid intense summer heat, June or September are preferable (and avoid August to sidestep mass tourism).
What cities should I visit in the Dolomites?
When visiting the Dolomites, Merano and Bolzano are two essential stops. Why? These two main cities in the region combine cultural visits, typical architecture, breathtaking landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities!
Frequently asked questions
Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is often cited as the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites, thanks to its turquoise waters and alpine setting within a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lago di Sorapis and Lago di Carezza are also highly prized for their exceptional colours and magical reflections.
Swimming is possible in certain Dolomites lakes during summer. Lago di Landro is particularly popular because its water level drops in summer, making it shallower and warmer. At Lago di Braies, swimming is permitted but the water remains cool due to the altitude (1496 m).
Access to the lakes is generally free, but parking is often paid. Expect €10/day at Lago di Braies or €2 at Lago di Dobbiaco, for example. Some lakes like Lago di Landro or Lago di Sorapis have free parking. Aim to arrive early, especially during peak season.
Several Dolomites lakes offer winter activities. Lago di Dobbiaco allows curling and ice skating on its frozen surface. Lago di Misurina is also suitable for ice skating. Access to high-altitude lakes can be difficult in winter due to snow and ice.
To visit all 7 lakes presented in this article, allow at least 3 to 4 days, combining several lakes per day depending on proximity. Some lakes like Lago di Sorapis require 3 hours of hiking round-trip, while others like Lago d'Antorno can be completed in 30 minutes.
