The Lakes of the Dolomites: Alpine Jewels among UNESCO World Heritage Mountains

The lakes of the Dolomites are some of the most spectacular natural wonders of the Eastern Alps, crystal-clear pools of water nestled between the vertical walls of the pink mountains. These Dolomite alpine lakes offer breathtaking views and hide fascinating curiosities that make them unmissable destinations for hikers, photographers and nature lovers.

The Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites

Lake Braies - The Pearl of the Dolomites

Lake Braies, known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites”, is famous for its turquoise waters that perfectly reflect the Croda del Becco. Interesting fact: this glacial lake reaches a maximum depth of 36 metres and is fed by underground springs that keep the water crystal clear all year round. During the winter, it freezes completely, creating a natural skating rink.

Lake Carezza - The Rainbow Lake

Lake Carezza owes its nickname ‘Regenbogensee’ (Rainbow Lake) to the legend of the mermaid who lived there. Meteorological curiosity: its waters change colour during the day depending on weather conditions and the angle of the sun, varying from emerald green to deep blue. The water temperature never exceeds 10°C, even in the height of summer.

Lake Misurina - The Olympic Lake

Lake Misurina, at an altitude of 1,754 metres, is the largest natural lake in Cadore. Historical curiosity: its waters were used for speed skating competitions during the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina. The lake is also famous for the therapeutic properties of its microclimate, ideal for treating childhood asthma.

Lake Auronzo – The lake between the Three Peaks and the Dolomite village

Lake Auronzo, an artificial lake, stretches for over two kilometres along the village of Auronzo di Cadore, framed by the Dolomites of Lavaredo.

Landscape curiosity: in summer it hosts rowing competitions and international regattas, while in winter it turns into a charming frozen mirror reflecting the snow-covered Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Lake Dobbiaco - The Lake of Silence

Lake Dobbiaco is surrounded by a nature reserve that preserves its unique ecosystem. Environmental curiosity: this glacial lake is gradually silting up due to debris carried by the Rienza river, a natural process that will lead to its disappearance in about 100-150 years, transforming it into a peat bog.

Lake Fedaia - The Most Spectacular Artificial Lake

Although artificial, Lake Fedaia offers one of the most photographed views of the Dolomites, with the Marmolada reflected in its waters. Engineering curiosity: the dam, built in 1956, is 60 metres high and the lake can hold up to 16 million cubic metres of water. During the autumn release, the remains of the submerged village of Fedaia emerge.

Lake Sorapis – The lake suspended among the clouds

Located at 1,925 metres above sea level, Lake Sorapis can only be reached on foot via a panoramic trail starting from Passo Tre Croci.

Natural curiosity: its milky turquoise colour is due to tiny rock crystals suspended in the water, which reflect the light in a unique way. It is one of the most photographed lakes in the Dolomites.

Lake Anterselva – The lake of four seasons

Nestled in the Anterselva Valley on the border with Austria, this lake lies among forests and the peaks of the Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park, offering changing views throughout the year.

Climatic curiosity: in spring the melting waters reveal emerald reflections; in summer it is ideal for hiking and nature photography; in autumn it turns into a palette of warm colours, while in winter it becomes the spectacular setting for the Biathlon World Cup held at the nearby Anterselva Stadium.

Lake Barcis – The green jewel of Valcellina

Located in the province of Pordenone, in the heart of Valcellina, Lake Barcis enchants visitors with its deep green colour and shimmering reflections.Touristic curiosity: besides being a perfect place for walks and photography, it is famous for water sports such as sailing and motorboating. Its mountain-fed waters change shade depending on the light and the season.

Why the Dolomite Lakes Are So Special

The alpine lakes of the Dolomites owe their unique beauty to the particular geology of the Dolomites. The limestone rock gives the waters their unmistakable turquoise and emerald green reflections, while their glacial origin guarantees crystal-clear purity. The weather conditions on the Dolomite lakes create spectacular optical phenomena, with reflections that change colour depending on the light and clouds.

Climatic Curiosities about Dolomite Lakes

Thermal inversion phenomenon: during winter, some lakes in the Dolomites experience warmer surface temperatures than the surrounding air, creating evocative morning mists that dissipate at sunrise.

Singing ice: when the lakes freeze completely, temperature variations create cracks in the ice that produce sounds similar to singing, a phenomenon that is particularly audible at Lake Braies in the early hours of the morning.

When to visit the Dolomite lakes

The Dolomite lakes offer different spectacles in each season:

1. Summer: crystal clear waters perfect for hiking and photography.
2. Autumn: golden reflections of larch trees mirrored in the waters.
3. Winter: frozen surfaces and fairytale landscapes.
4. Spring: melting ice and temporary waterfalls.

The weather forecast for the Dolomite lakes is essential for planning the perfect visit, as weather conditions drastically affect the visibility of reflections.