Dolomites lakes in South Tyrol: a journey through must-see lakes

The magical allure of Alpine lakes

There’s a special kind of silence that lives along the shores of the Dolomites lakes. The air is crisp, the water perfectly still, and the pale rock of the mountain range is reflected like a painting on glass.

Most of these alpine lakes are glacial lakes: over thousands of years, ancient glaciers carved out basins in the rock, later filled by snowmelt and springs. Today, they are fragile ecosystems where cold, clear water, forest, and rock meet – and some of the most beautiful spots in the Dolomites to slow down and simply look.

Why the Dolomites lakes are so unique

What makes the Dolomites lakes so unforgettable compared to other beautiful mountain lakes in northern Italy?

• Colour: many of the best Dolomites lakes glow in surreal turquoise or deep emerald, thanks to fine rock particles and pure glacial water.
• Backdrops: from the dramatic towers of Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina to forested slopes and soft meadows, each natural lake has its own frame.
• Reflections: on calm days, lakes like Lago di Misurina, Lago di Dobbiaco, and Lago di Landro become perfect mirrors – absolutely beautiful, especially in early morning or late afternoon.

For many travellers, these waters are the highlight of their trip to the Dolomites.

Top Dolomites lakes to discover. The must-see lakes: Braies, Sorapis, and Carezza

Whether you love iconic views or quiet corners, here are some of the must-see lakes in the Dolomites.

Lago di Braies (Lake Braies)

Probably the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites, Lago di Braies, sits in a side valley of South Tyrol. Emerald water, a wooden boathouse, and steep peaks make it one of the most popularly photographed lakes in the Dolomites.

A well-marked path around the lake creates an easy loop. To really enjoy it, arrive early in the morning or later in the day, when the crowds thin and the atmosphere turns peaceful.

Lago di Sorapis

Reaching Lago di Sorapis near Cortina d’Ampezzo requires a proper hike in the Dolomites from Passo Tre Croci. The reward? A milky-turquoise mountain lake set in white rock and dramatic cliffs.

Lago di Carezza (Karersee)

Compact, colorful, and easy to reach, Lago di Carezza is a beautiful lake framed by forest and the Latemar peaks. A short path around the lake makes it perfect for a gentle walk, while the reflections and colors delight photographers and families alike.

Hidden gems in South Tyrol: lesser-known lakes worth the trek

Here are some suggestions for other lakes to visit: 

Lago di Limedes & Lago delle Baste

Above the Ampezzo Dolomites, small tarns like Lago di Limedes and Lago delle Baste are ideal if you’re looking for quieter spots in the Dolomites. Short hikes bring you to shallow pools that reflect nearby peaks – especially beautiful at sunset.

Lago di Dobbiaco & Lago di Anterselva

Lago di Dobbiaco (Lake Dobbiaco) is perfect for a relaxed walk around the lake, birdwatching, and picnics, while Lago di Anterselva feels wilder and more remote. Both are wonderful for travelers who prefer calm, scenic shores to big crowds.

You can easily combine these with nearby lakes like Lago di Misurina, Lake Antorno, or Lago di Landro – each one different, and each one absolutely beautiful in its own way.

Lago di Landro: a turquoise jewel

Lago di Landro (also known as Dürrensee) is a stunning lake located in the Val di Landro, in the province of South Tyrol, Italy. Situated near Dobbiaco at an altitude of about 1,406 meters, it is part of the Three Peaks Nature Park and lies close to the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park borders. This makes it a protected area surrounded by the stunning peaks of the Dolomites.

The lake is situated in a valley accessible from both Dobbiaco and Cortina d'Ampezzo, offering spectacular views of the Cristallo Group and the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Its waters are a striking turquoise color. Notably, it is one of the few lakes among the largest lakes in the Dolomites in Alta Pusteria that is known for being the warmest and shallowest, with a maximum depth of about 3.5 meters.

Lago di Landro is a popular starting point for hiking, with trails leading to Mt. Piano and the Antonio Locatelli Mountain Hut, as well as to the nearby climbing garden of Valle della Rienza. In summer, the lake is ideal for swimming, walking, and relaxing on its pebble beach. In winter, it’s best to visit for cross-country skiing or to see the 3 Zinnen Ski-Marathon. The area is rich in flora and fauna, and the surrounding mountains offer photo opportunities, especially at sunrise when the Cristallo Group reflects on the entire lake.

Lago di Misurina: The Pearl of the Dolomites

Lago di Misurina, often called the "Pearl of the Dolomites," is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region. Located at an altitude of 1,754 meters near Auronzo di Cadore in the province of Belluno, it is surrounded by majestic peaks such as the Cadini Group, Mount Cristallo, and the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. It is truly one of the most well-known lakes in the Dolomites.

This stunning lake has a perimeter of about 2.6 km and a depth of 5 meters, with crystal-clear waters. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and is ideal for walking along the side of the lake or completing the loop, which takes about 45 minutes. 

Lake Misurina is easily accessible by car or public transport. There are restaurants and accommodations next to the lake, including the iconic Istituto Pius XII. Whether you want to simply see the lake or explore the road to Rifugio Auronzo nearby, it is a favorite spot for nature lovers. Lago di Misurina is a must-visit destination in this beautiful region, offering incredibly beautiful views year-round.

Activities and experiences around the lakes

A paradise for hikers and nature lovers

Many best hikes in the Dolomitesare built around lakes. You might:

• Stroll around the lake at Lago di Braies or Lake Dobbiaco,
• Hike from Passo Tre Croci to Lago di Sorapis,
• Combine Lago di Misurina, Lake Antorno, and the viewpoints of Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the Piani lakes.

These routes let you enjoy forest, alpine flowers, birdlife, and wide-open views, with the comfort of knowing that a lakeside bench or a cozy rifugio is never too far away.

Visit the Dolomites: seasons and the changing face of the lakes

The best time to visit depends on what you’re dreaming of.

• Spring: Melting snow, lively streams, some higher lakes still partly frozen. A trail around the lake can be muddy, and not all routes are open.
• Summer: Ideal for most travelers. Warm days, open paths, and perfect conditions for a trip to the Dolomites focused on water and hikes.
• Autumn: Golden larches, calm weather, and magical reflections – especially at Lake Dobbiaco, Lago di Landro, and Lago di Misurina. A fantastic time for photographers.
• Winter: In many places, the lake freezes, and snow covers the shore. Access depends on conditions, but winter walks near frozen lakes can be incredibly atmospheric.

Whatever the season, remember that the water in these alpine lakes stays cold – even on hot days.

Responsible travel: protecting the lakes for the future

These wonderful lakes are under pressure from increasing numbers of visitors, cars, and social media fame. Small choices make a big difference:

• Stay on marked paths and avoid trampling the shore.
• Take all your rubbish (even organic waste) back with you.
• Keep noise low – and drones under control or at home.
• Respect signs about access, parking, and especially swimming.

Some lakes, like Lago di Braies, are popular Dolomites lakes where local rules now limit car access and discourage swimming to protect the ecosystem. Respecting those rules is part of travelling kindly.

Ready to explore the Dolomites lakes with us?

Designing an itinerary that includes the most well-known Dolomites lakes, the right hikes, and realistic driving times can be tricky – especially if it’s your first visit to the Dolomites. That’s where having someone on the ground makes all the difference.

With a tailor-made itinerary, you can:

• Combine iconic lakes like Lago di Braies, Lago di Sorapis, and Lago di Carezza with quieter, more authentic spots.
• Match every lake with a hike or gentle walk around the lake suited to your pace and interests.
• Choose the best time to visit according to what you love most: reflections, autumn colors, or cool summer air.

Our role is to listen to what you’re dreaming of, share local insight, and craft a trip to the Dolomites that feels effortless, responsible, and deeply memorable – one beautiful lake at a time.