Ice-cold glacial lakes, crystal clear mountain lakes and refreshing bathing lakes: The seascape in the Dolomites bears witness to the unique diversity of the holiday region. Thanks to an abundance of water, you can look forward to swimming lakes with excellent water quality and mountain lakes that are like a dream.
On a holiday in the Dolomites, you will have countless opportunities for sports on one of the lakes: Boating, a circular walk around the lake, or dare to swim in the refreshing water - there is something for the whole family. And in winter, the lakes are no less interesting and beckon you to go ice skating or curling.
The most popular destinations among the lakes in the Dolomites are Lake Carezza in the Val d'Ega holiday region, the magically turquoise Sorapis Lake and Lake Misurina in the province of Belluno, and of course, the famous Lago di Braies in Alta Pusteria. Of course, the lakes we have just mentioned are all pure mountain lakes: too cold for swimming, but have a very special charm, with emerald green or deep blue water and a wonderful destination for hikers and nature lovers.
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The most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites
Lake Braies / Pragser Wildsee
Lake Braies is one of the most beautiful lakes in South Tyrol and is also known as "
the Pearl of the dolomite Lakes". Located at an altitude of about 1,500 m above sea level, in the picturesque Alta Pusteria, the mountain lake captivates with its turquoise-green colour and the
imposing mass of the Seekofel (2,810 m) that surrounds it.
Lake Braies / Pragser Wildsee
Lake Dobbiaco / Toblacher See
Lake Dobbiaco in Alta Pusteria Valley is
picturesque and unmistakably beautiful. Here on the border of the Three Peaks nature park and the Fanes Sennes nature park, this natural alpine lake is a popular destination for families, hikers and anyone looking for tranquility.
Lake Dobbiaco can also be explored by paddle boat. And you can watch rare migratory birds in peace and quiet.
Lake Dobbiaco / Toblacher See
Lake Landro / Dürrensee
Not far from Lake Dobbiaco, on the way to Cortina d'Ampezzo, lies Lake Landro / Dürrensee. Its turquoise blue water invites visitors young and old, to relax by the water’s banks. Those brave enough can also venture into the water during the warm summer months. The lake is located directly on the Dobbiaco-Cortina cycle path, and is great for a stopover - to paddle in the water or have a quick swim.
Lake Anterselva / Antholzer See
A true natural treasure of the Kronplatz holiday region can be found at the end of the Antholz valley: Lake Antholz. It is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes, and with an area of 44 hectares, makes Lake Anterselva, the third largest natural lake in South Tyrol. Its Emerald water attracts visitors young and old to its shores, who come mainly to relax and unwind at the Lake.
Lake Issengo / Issinger Weiher
Despite its height at almost 1,000 m above sea level, bathing enthusiasts and water fans find Lake Issengo’s temperatures in the summer months of June to mid-September pleasant. As one of the last pond biotopes in the Dolomites, Lake Issengo also has a rich variety of flora and fauna, especially as maintenance of this paradise has been given special priority and only natural preparations used.
Lake Carezza / Karersee
If you drive in Bolzano in the direction of Eggental and then on towards Latemar and Karerpass, you will reach Lake Carezza / Karersee, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes, on the high plateau of Welschnofen, surrounded by tall coniferous trees, in the middle of an otherwise barren landscape. In winter, Lake Carezza is a fascinating layer of ice for ice divers, and documentary film scenes filmed under water and ice have now gained cult status due to their special play on light.
Lake Misurina / Misurinasee
Located in the province of Belluno and accessible from both Alta Pusteria and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Lake Misurina / Misurinasee is a popular destination in the warm summer months. Due to its clear water and the mighty mountain scenery that surrounds the Lake Misurina, it is also known as the "Pearl of Cadore".
Lake Fie / Völser Weiher
In the immediate vicinity of the Alpe di Siusi and the Sciliar area, the small lake, Lake Fie / Völser Weiher, is half in a biotope, which is why swimming in summer is only possible in the other half, for reasons of nature conservation. In addition to swimming in the lake, boats can also be hired here in summer, so you can spend a few romantic moments on the water.
Lake Sorapis / Sorapis
Probably one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites: Lake Sorapis. Visitors young and old will be thrilled by the turquoise-blue lake at an altitude of 1,900 metres. With white cliffs and gentle alpine pastures in the background, this lake is a truly magical place. You can relax here, surrounded by the mighty Dolomites, and soothe your soul. Just 150 metres from Rifugio Vandelli, this Dolomite lake can only be reached on foot.