EFanes Waterfalls: the hike to the hidden cascades
Short hike to the spectacular Fanes waterfalls, among the most evocative in the Dolomites, tucked deep in a narrow gorge.
Hiking (E)
Lakes and waterfalls of the Dolomites
Cool, family-friendly spots: the most beautiful alpine lakes and waterfalls in the Dolomites, easy to reach.
Alpine lakes are among the signature images of the Dolomites, and they're nearly always reached on easy walks: that's why the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites are perfect destinations for families and for anyone after a restful half day. Here you'll find the lakes and waterfalls sorted by area, with the type of path and the time it takes to reach them.
Lake Braies, the turquoise Lake Sorapis and Lake Carezza with its reflections are the most searched-for names, but there are also gentle loops like the Lake Misurina circuit and more dramatic spots like the Fanes Waterfalls. Many lakes are ideal for a picnic or for sunbathing in summer; remember that swimming is almost always forbidden to protect these fragile environments.
Lakes & waterfalls trails
ETSappada Waterfalls and the Source of the Piave: the Water Loop
An easy walk from Sappada to the source of the River Piave and the nearby Mühlbach waterfalls, in the wild heart of the eastern Dolomites.
Easy / Tourist (T)
TLago di Braies Loop: the easy circuit around the Pearl of the Dolomites
The flat perimeter walk around the most famous lake in the Dolomites: 3.5 km accessible to everyone, including pushchairs, with postcard views at every turn.
Easy / Tourist (T)
TLago di Dobbiaco Loop: an easy walk in the Alta Pusteria
Flat loop around Lago di Dobbiaco through reedbeds and forest, with views of the Sesto Dolomites. Ideal for families.
Easy / Tourist (T)
TLago di Misurina Circuit: an easy stroll at the foot of the Tre Cime
A flat loop around Lago di Misurina, the "Pearl of the Cadore", with views of the Cadini and the Sorapis. Accessible to all.
Easy / Tourist (T)
TLago di Carezza Loop: the Rainbow Lake beneath the Latemar
A short circuit around Lago di Carezza, celebrated for its constantly shifting colours, at the foot of the Latemar and the Catinaccio.
Easy / Tourist (T)
EELago di Sorapis: the hike to the turquoise lake from Passo Tre Croci
One of the most photographed lakes in the Dolomites, with an otherworldly turquoise colour. Panoramic trail with some exposed, cable-assisted sections.
Experienced hikers (EE)