Lago di Coldai is an alpine lake on the Alta Via 1, dominated by the immense north-west face of Monte Civetta.
The hike reaches Rifugio Coldai and the lake with a good amount of climbing, in one of the most majestic settings of the Belluno Dolomites.
How to get there — Palafavera (1.514 m)
You start from Palafavera (1,514 m), in Val di Zoldo, along the road climbing to Passo Staulanza. Arrive by car from Val di Zoldo coming from Longarone, or from the Selva di Cadore side over the pass. At Palafavera there are car parks and a services area, with the trailhead near the lifts. From here take waymark 564 climbing towards Rifugio Coldai. In high season arrive early, both for parking and to take the roughly 650 m of climbing to the hut and the lake at a calm pace.
The trailhead is in the Val di Zoldo e Civetta area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Ascent from Palafavera
Climb through forest and then open pastures to Rifugio Coldai.
2. The saddle and Lago di Coldai
Cross the saddle to look out over the lake and the towering Civetta wall.
When to go & weather
July to September is the ideal season, with the trail clear of snow and Rifugio Coldai open. This is a route for experienced hikers, with serious climbing in an alpine setting, so avoid periods with leftover snow around the Forcella Coldai. July and August are crowded, partly because of the Alta Via 1 hikers passing through, while September brings crisp light and far fewer people. Set off early to enjoy the lake in the best light and dodge the thunderstorms that gather beneath the Civetta wall.
Recommended gear
- Sturdy trekking boots, suited to the climbing and the stony stretches of the upper section
- Telescopic poles, a great help on the way up and on the long descent
- Layered clothing with a waterproof shell for the changeable alpine weather
- Plenty of water and a packed lunch, or a budget for the stop at the hut
- Hat, sunglasses and sun cream for the open stretches
- A map or GPS track of the route, which here follows the Alta Via 1
Useful tips
- Climb to the Forcella Coldai, above the hut, to look out over the lake and the immense north-west face of the Civetta. That is where the view takes your breath away
- Check the opening and timetable of Rifugio Coldai before you go, so you can plan a stop or an overnight stay
- Pace yourself over the roughly 650 m of climbing and keep a steady rhythm in the forest at the start, the most monotonous part
- Make the most of being on the Alta Via 1 to take in one of the most majestic settings of the Belluno Dolomites
- Set off early. The lake and the Civetta wall show far more in the raking light of the early hours
Huts and rest points
- Rifugio Coldai (2132 m) — Tappa dell'Alta Via 1, sotto la Civetta e a due passi dal Lago di Coldai. Details →
Frequently asked questions
Is the Lago di Coldai part of the Alta Via 1?
Yes. The refuge and lake are a classic stage of the Alta Via 1, among the most walked and with the best views on the whole route.
Can you stay overnight at the Rifugio Coldai?
Yes. The Rifugio Coldai offers paid overnight stays and is a classic stage for those walking the Alta Via 1 over several days. In the summer months book well ahead.
Can you swim in the Lago di Coldai?
No. The Coldai is a small high-altitude alpine lake, freezing cold and in a delicate setting: it is not for swimming, and it is right to respect that. Almost all walkers stop only for a scenic break.
How much ascent is there to reach the Lago di Coldai?
From Palafavera you climb about 650 metres, with the lake at 2,143 metres. On average allow a couple of hours of ascent to the refuge, the rest of the route aside.