The Lago di Misurina is the largest natural lake in the Cadore and one of the iconic images of the Dolomites — so much so that it has earned the nickname the pearl of the Cadore. Sitting at 1,754 metres, its surface mirrors the spires of the Cadini di Misurina and the surrounding summits, offering picture-postcard views in every season. The walk around its shores is a level stroll of a few kilometres, comfortable for everyone, that can be completed at a leisurely pace in about an hour, passing historic hotels and lakeside cafés.
The air of Misurina has been celebrated since the nineteenth century for its exceptional purity: it was precisely for this reason that the Istituto Pio XII was established on the lakeside, a unique facility dedicated to the treatment of childhood asthma. From here the toll road climbs to the Rifugio Auronzo, the base for the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and trails branch off towards the Cadini. In winter the snowy setting and deep silence amplify the charm of a place that remains one of the most photographed in the entire region.
Frequently asked questions
Can you walk around the Lago di Misurina?
Yes, the path that follows the shoreline is level and takes about an hour: it is suitable for families and children alike, with rest stops and cafés dotted along the way.
Why is the air at Misurina considered especially healthy?
The purity of the air at this altitude has been noted since the nineteenth century. It is precisely for this reason that the Istituto Pio XII — a facility specialising in the treatment of childhood asthma — was built on the lakeside, making Misurina a long-established climatic resort.