Lake Sorapis owes its fame to a colour that looks almost too good to be real: a milky turquoise from the finest glacial sediment held in the water, which shifts shade with the light and the water level. It sits in a wild amphitheatre under the walls of the Sorapis group, a short walk from Rifugio Vandelli, above which rises the unmistakable spire of the Dito di Dio. Together they make one of the most photographed scenes in the whole region.
The hike starts at Passo Tre Croci, above Cortina, and follows trail number 215: just over five kilometres of near-flat walking through forest, rated as a standard hike. About one and a half kilometres from the refuge there's an equipped section with ropes and ladders that needs care and proper footwear. It isn't a hard walk, but it's worth knowing about before you head out. One more thing: this is a very popular spot, so start early, both for a quieter lake and for the colour at its best in morning light.
Frequently asked questions
How demanding is the hike to Lake Sorapis?
Trail 215 from Passo Tre Croci is a standard hike (E), just over five kilometres and mostly flat. Near the end there's a short equipped section with ropes and ladders that needs care, a steady foot and proper hiking boots.
Why does Lake Sorapis have that turquoise colour?
The strong colour comes from the finest glacial sediment held in the water, which catches the light and gives the lake its look. That's why the shade changes with the season, the light and the water level.