The Dolomites are home to some of the most spectacular Alpine lakes in Europe. From San Vigilio di Marebbe, you can drive to four natural jewels. Emerald waters, Dolomite peak reflections and a peace that only the mountains can offer — here is our guide to the most beautiful lakes to visit during your holiday.
1. Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
The Jewel of the Dolomites
Lake Braies is undoubtedly the most iconic lake in the Dolomites and one of the most photographed in the world. Its turquoise waters, set between vertical rock faces and fir forests, create a postcard-perfect landscape in every season.
- Distance from San Vigilio: 50 minutes by car
- Altitude: 1,496 m
- Trail difficulty: easy (loop trail around the lake)
- Walking time: approximately 1 hour for the full circuit
- Best period: June to September (avoid August if possible)
What to Do
The walk around the lake suits everyone, including children and elderly visitors. The famous wooden rowing boats are an unmissable experience. Swimming in the lake is not allowed.
From 1 July to 15 September, car access is closed roughly from 9:00 to 16:00: during that period you arrive by the seasonal bus 439, with mandatory online booking. Parking is paid: check the current rules on prags.bz. Arriving early helps you avoid the crowds, and the early morning light is the best for photographs.
2. Lake Anterselva (Antholzer See)
The Sportsman's Lake
Less famous than Braies but equally striking, Lake Anterselva is a hidden gem surrounded by conifer forests and Alpine meadows. It is also home to the biathlon centre where world-class athletes train.
- Altitude: 1,642 m
- Trail difficulty: easy (flat path around the lake)
- Best period: June to October
What to Do
The loop trail is shorter than Braies and very peaceful — perfect for those seeking nature without crowds. The meadows around the lake are ideal for a picnic with a view. For photographers, the mountain reflections in the late afternoon are simply magical.
Lake Anterselva is an excellent alternative to Lake Braies for those wanting to avoid crowds. Combine it with a visit to the biathlon centre for a unique experience.
3. Lake Dobbiaco (Toblacher See)
The Walking Lake
Lake Dobbiaco is the starting point of the famous Val Pusteria cycle path, which runs all the way to Lienz in Austria. Surrounded by a nature reserve, it offers a gentle, relaxing landscape quite different from the drama of Braies.
- Altitude: 1,259 m
- Trail difficulty: very easy
- Best period: May to October
What to Do
The lakeside path is easy and suits families. Beautiful hikes towards Val di Landro also start from here.
4. Lake Landro (Duerrensee)
The Lake with the Cristallo View
Lake Landro is small but offers one of the most spectacular views in the Dolomites: the reflection of Monte Cristallo in its waters is an image you will not forget. It sits along the road from Dobbiaco to Cortina d'Ampezzo.
- Altitude: 1,405 m
- Trail difficulty: easy (short walk along the shore)
- Best period: June to September
What to Do
This is the ideal lake for photographers — the Cristallo reflection is best seen in the early morning or late afternoon. Combine it with Lake Dobbiaco for a half-day of lakeside exploration.
Combine the Lakes with the Zipline
The perfect formula for a day in the Dolomites? Morning on the zipline, afternoon at the lake. After the adrenaline of the 7 runs on our zipline in San Vigilio, a relaxing stop by one of these lakes is the ideal complement.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Photography
- Best time: before 9:00 or after 17:00 for the finest reflections
- Equipment: even a smartphone captures incredible images; use panorama mode for reflections
- Weather: slightly overcast days often produce the most intense colours on the water
Getting Around
All lakes are reachable by car from San Vigilio. Lake Dobbiaco is also reachable by bicycle along the Val Pusteria cycle path. For Lake Braies, from 1 July to 15 September use the seasonal bus 439 (online booking mandatory).
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Sun cream and hat
- Water and snacks
- Light jacket (temperatures at altitude can change quickly)
Plan Your Holiday of Lakes and Adventure
San Vigilio di Marebbe is the perfect base for exploring the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites and enjoying unforgettable adventures. Whether you are a couple seeking romance, a family with children or a group of friends, there is a perfect lake for you.
For full planning, check our guide to San Vigilio and the best hikes in the area.
Contact Us to Plan Your DayRead Also
- Best Hikes in San Vigilio — Trails for all levels.
- Fanes-Senes-Braies Hiking Guide — The natural heart of the Dolomites.
- Summer in the Dolomites: Adventure Guide — All summer activities.
