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If you’re reading this post, chances are you have come across a picture or two on social media of the spectacular landscape that characterizes the Lago di Carezza hike. And you might be wondering… Is Lake Carezza in the Dolomites really worth the hype or is it going to disappoint? I’m happy to report that IT IS ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT! In fact, it made my list of top destinations to visit in the Dolomites!
So, why Lago di Carezza? Among the dozens of breathtaking alpine and glacial lakes in the South Tyrol, why should Lago di Carezza absolutely make your list?
Well, for starters, Lago di Carezza is suitable to visit all year long! That means it doesn’t matter when you can take time off – you can visit whenever you please. And as opposed to most lakes that become inaccessible or challenging to visit in the winter, Lago di Carezza even hosts a whimsical annual Christmas market right on the snowy and wooded path circumscribing the lake. (BTW, the Lago di Carezza Christmas Market was one of the dreamiest experiences I’ve had in my life –it’s became my favorite of all the Italian Christmas Markets.)
More importantly, the Lago di Carezza hike is also very easy making it suitable for young children… that means yes, you can bring your stroller!
And finally, there really is no other lake in the Dolomites that reflects with such a collection of colors; honestly I could ramble on for a thousand pages describing its beauty (yeah, sorry for that next section guys *angelic grin.*) In fact, it comes as no surprise that folklore legends from centuries ago came to describe Lago di Carezza as the Rainbow Lake.
This guide was designed specifically to help you prepare for the Lago di Carezza Hike. From practical tips, to what facilities are present, to what to know before you go, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Lake Carezza and its loop hike.
So, let’s get to all of your questions!
**If you don’t have time to read through this entire post and you have a specific question, try skipping to my FAQ section!
Post Contents
Lago di Carezza Hike Overview
Difficulty: Very Easy
Duration: 30 mins to several hours, depending on how often you stop
Length: 1.3 km
Lake Altitude: 1,534 meters
The Rainbow Lake
Like a gemstone that changes color, you’ll find that the Lago di Carezza displays different color palates at every new viewpoint you encounter. You’ll find warm fleeting golden flecks of amber to sudden bursts of violet, in what can only be described as a perfectly harmonious waltz between water, sun, and the surrounding Latemar forest and mountain range.
Depending on the height of the sun and the amount of wind, the lake also sometimes acts as a sort of mirror to the surrounding scenery. A pristine reflection of the towering mountains and forest appears on the glossy surface as ripples soften to a full stop. It’s as if the stillness of the moment makes time stop, pulling you in into the very essence of the surrounding landscape.
The legend of the nymph Ondina in fact tells how the lake came to be called the Rainbow lake. The story narrates that an evil wizard trying to capture her for her beautiful singing voice unsuccessfully tried to entice her out of the water with a rainbow. She didn’t fall for the trick causing such anger in the wizard that the rainbow shattered with fury and was lost into a million pieces into the depths of the lake.
So, now that I’ve convinced you to visit, let’s get all the details squared away!
Best time of the year for the Lago di Carezza Hike
First and foremost, when planning your visit to Lago di Carezza, it’s important to understand what type of experience you are looking to have. Are you interested in a fairylike snow kissed winter wonderland or are you aiming to witness those dazzling shades of turquoise?
WINTER
Winter is the best time of year if you’re looking for snowy landscapes and holiday warmth. In December, the Lago di Carezza trail lights up with candle lanterns for the annual Christmas Market. You’ll spot carolers and have a chance to sip on some mulled wine as you make your way around the lake. You can also try your hand with snowshoeing on one of the many other trails in Latemar during this season.
**Bear in mind that temperatures do go below freezing in the winter. To complete the Lago di Carezza hike you should come equipped with snow or winter boots.
READ MY FULL GUIDE ON ITALIAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS HERE
SPRING
Spring is the best time to visit for the colors of the water. As the ice has thawed and the water is at its maximum level, this is the season where the water glistens with the broadest spectrum of colors. Also, if you’re interested in witnessing that pristine and crisp mirror like reflection of the mighty surrounding Latemar mountain range, this is the season you get the widest reflection as the lake is at its largest size.
**Bear in mind that temperatures in spring are still quite chilly hovering at an average of 5/10 degrees C (40/50 F).
SUMMER
Summer is the best time to visit if you’re looking for warmer temperatures. With an average of about 18C (65F), on most days you can comfortably complete the Lago di Carezza hike with a light jacket. And don’t worry about missing all those shades of blue and green, you will still get a magnificent array of reflections.
**Bear in mind that this season welcomes the most crowds. If you’re not a fan of tourists try heading out in the early morning. (The crowds are not as bad as at Lago di Braies. I’ve been to Lago di Carezza in peak season and I found that with patience the crowds were manageable).
FALL
Fall is the best time of year to go for surrounding foliage however bear in mind that the water level is at its lowest. This doesn’t mean you won’t see a beautiful lake but the range of hues of the water might be less spectacular. Also, given the low level of water the lake is at its smallest size in this season.
When is the best time of day for visiting Lago di Carezza?
For the best lighting and the least number of crowds the ideal time to visit Lake Carezza is sunrise. Sunset obviously is also great for lighting, but honestly even the middle of the day is mind-blowing… Yay for those sleep-lovers!
How to get to Lago di Carezza
Lago di Carezza (Karersee in German) is located in the region of Trentino Alto Adige in north-eastern Italy. More specifically, it is located in the Commune of Nova Levante (Welschnofen) in Val d’Ega right at the foot of the Latemar and Catinaccio mountain groups. It’s quite easy to get to just a mere 30-minute drive from Bolzano. Depending on where you’re coming from the directions will slightly differ.
By Car to Lake Carezza
You’ll want to type in your GPS “Parkplatz Karersee,” and you’ll be led right to the lake parking lot.
Bolzano to Lago di Carezza | 40-min drive via SS241
Cortina to Lago di Carezza | 2-hr drive via SR48, SS48, SS241
Verona to Lago di Carezza | 2hr drive via A22, SS12 and SS241
By Bus to Lake Carezza
The 180 bus has a stop right in front of the Lake Visitor Center. If you’re departing from the Bolzano train station, there is a bus departing about every hour and the journey takes about an hour as well. To view updated prices and stops please visit their website here.
Parking at Lago di Carezza
This might seem straight forward but there isn’t just one parking lot at Lago di Carezza. If you type in “Lago di Carezza” into your GPS you will most likely be led straight to the Visitor Center which is directly adjacent to Parking Lot 1 (Parkplatz Karersee), the closest parking area to the lake.
Depending however on how many cars have arrived, there might not be any parking spots left. Don’t sweat it, there are two other lots to park at! As the lots fill up you will be redirected to the next empty lot. (Don’t worry there are signs along the road to help guide you to the various parking lots).
Parking Lots – Costs and Locations
Costs vary depending on parking lot. Always check this website for updates!
Closest – Parking 1 (Lago di Carezza)
Price: First hour costs 2 euro, then decreases the longer you stay. Pay at the end of your stay at the booth at the Visitor Center with cash or card.
The Visitor Center is directly adjacent to the parking lot.
Middle – Parking 2 (Via Bellavista)
Price: Free for cars, no campers admitted.
How to get to the Visitor Center from this parking lot: 15-minute walk through the forest and over a suspended bridge on Trail no. 6 (there are signs guiding the way).
Farthest: Parking 3 (Paolina)
Price: Free for cars, campers pay a fee.
How to get to the Visitor Center from this parking lot: Take the free shuttle that operates every 10 minutes and drops you off in front of the Visitor Center. (*Note – the shuttle doesn’t always operate so double check it is running!)
Lago di Carezza Hike – Panoramic Loop Trail
Regardless of the parking lot you parked at, your starting point of reference will be the Visitor Center. Once you get to the Visitor Center you are going to head down the underpass that leads you to the beginning of the trailhead.
Lago di Carezza Viewing Platform
You will see a large wooden viewing platform at the start of the loop. This platform is a great photography spot and also has several informative panels. I suggest reading the panels before embarking on the Lago di Carezza hike in order to familiarize yourself with the protected landscape.
Amongst the many panels, you’ll read about the effects of climate change in the Dolomites and the terrible Vaia Storm in 2018 that heavily ravaged the surrounding spruce forest. In just one night, the brutal winds destroyed over 15 million trees, uprooting entire forests and ecosystems and further exposing the territory to increased risk of avalanches and landslides. As you gaze behind the lake on the Latemar forest, you’ll sadly see entire areas completely razed to the ground.
Which Way to do the Lago di Carezza Hike?
So, because the Lago di Carezza hike is a loop that circles around the lake, you can decide to walk it clockwise or counterclockwise. You can choose which direction to walk it in based on sunlight/shade or crowds.
Bear in mind that the best views are on the north side (if you’re going clockwise you will get the best views almost at the end of the loop. If you’re going counterclockwise you will get the best views almost right at the beginning of the hike.) Because of this, if the sun is about to go down, I highly suggest you take the hike counterclockwise to ensure you get to see the lake in the sunlight.
On the Lago di Carezza Trail
Once you decide on a direction, all you have to do is stay on the path and complete the loop. The path is mainly flat, so the hike is very easy. Depending on your pace and how many lookouts you stop at (there are a few and each one presents a different scenery), completing the loop can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
We opted to also bring a picnic lunch as the trail is equipped with tables and benches in certain areas (if they are occupied don’t sweat it, we just sat on a couple of rocks in the shade).
DO NOT TRESPASS! You might get to this lake and be disappointed to find out that the lake is completely fenced off with no water access. Yeah… all those accounts on social media with pictures on the rocks or in the water are a product of flagrant rule-breaking. Don’t follow suit! Please be respectful and don’t cross over the fence. There are numerous signs at the lake indicating it is prohibited and that transgressors will be fined. Be a good example and help protect our world heritage sites:)
Lago di Carezza Hike in the Winter
During the winter, the lago di carezza hike is obviously a bit different…. And a bit colder!
If you’re going on the weekend and in December, the trail is lined with wooden stands for the whimsical Christmas Market. You can shop local artisan products and warm up at the many firepits. It’s a great experience for families but also a super romantic outing if it’s just you and your better half.
On weekdays the Christmas Market DOES NOT run, which means there are no firepits or events scheduled. The icy scenery is rather romantic but bear in mind that temperatures are COLD (I’m talking below freezing temperatures.) That means you won’t be able to linger much at many of the viewpoints. As a result, you can plan for less time when completing the Lago di Carezza hike in the winter. Also, remember to come prepared with snow boots!
What to Wear and Bring for your Lago di Carezza Hike
Depending on the time of year you embark on the Lago di Carezza hike you will need to wear and bring different things.
Winter Gear
You’ll obviously need to dress warm! Here are a couple specific things I highly suggest you consider bringing:
- Snow Boots! Please don’t forget these at home. Even though the Lago di Carezza hike is easy, and, on a path, the snow can get deep, slushy and icy… especially if you have to walk from Parking Lot 2.
- Thermal Wear (to wear as a layer underneath your clothes). Trust me, it can get really cold especially if you will be visiting the Christmas Market and stopping to browse various stands.
- Handwarmers – if you’re not used to cold weather you might want to consider purchasing some hand warmers. Just pop them into your jacket pockets and use them whenever you start to get chilly.
- Cash – (only if you’re going to the Lago di Carezza Christmas Market.) Stands only accept cash for payment.
Summer Gear
During Summer, or Spring and Fall for that matter, you are going to want to bring your basic hiking clothes. According to the season and temperature, you can decide how heavy the various layers. Here are a couple specific things I highly recommend you bring:
- Poncho – rain can honestly creep up quite suddenly in the Dolomites…even when it wasn’t in the morning forecasts you checked. Always have a poncho handy and you will be happy and dry.
- Packable Windbreaker – wind can really ruin the experience of a hike if you’re constantly chattering your teeth. Trust me, I’ve been there! A windbreaker can literally make or break your excursion. Try finding a packable one that won’t occupy too much space.
Also don’t forget to bring water and sunblock– even if it isn’t hot that doesn’t mean those UV rays aren’t hitting!
Where to Stay near Lago di Carezza
Where you stay will depend on how you’ve structured your Dolomites itinerary. Are you just going to be passing through on a day trip in Lago di Carezza? Or are you looking to stay close to the Lake to either get that sunrise photo or go to the Carezza Ski Resort?
Here are a couple options in the area listed by their budget. I haven’t personally stayed in them, but I heavily research each hotel and only recommend those that I would happily book for myself as well.
Mid/High Range – Hotel Cristal
Obereggen – 25 min drive from Lago di Carezza
Right on the slopes and just a 25-min drive to Lago di Carezza, this beautiful hotel has both an outdoor and indoor pool – perfect for all seasons! Plus located right in Obereggen, you can hike directly into Lago di Carezza using the Templweg trail (13.2km roundtrip).
Midrange – X Alp Hotel
Pozza di Fassa – 25 min drive from Lago di Carezza
Complete with restaurant and possibility of booking a private jacuzzi, this cozy hotel is linked via bus to dozens of ski slopes and is in the perfect location for dozens of hiking trails.
Vigo di Fassa – 20 min drive from Lago di Carezza
If you have your heart set on seeing sunrise at Lago di Carezza, this quaint chalet with beautiful views is the perfect choice. Only 20-mins from the lake!
Lago di Carezza Hike FAQ
Can you swim in Lago di Carezza?
NO! Swimming is strictly prohibited in Lago di Carezza as a means to protect and preserve the precious and distinct ecosystem it possesses. Please help protect this beautiful World Heritage Site and refrain from swimming. Hefty fines can and will be issued. And to help you quell your fear of missing out, let me tell you…The swim wouldn’t be relaxing anyway as water temperatures in the summer don’t go beyond a chilling 13 degrees Celsius (55F)!
**Still looking for an alpine lake that allows swimming? If you absolutely have your heart set on swimming in an alpine lake while in the Dolomites, Lago di Anterselva still allows swimming and is also quite spectacular.
Are there restrooms on the Lago di Carezza hike?
There are restrooms at the visitor center before the trail begins. On the trail loop however there are no other restrooms available.
Are there places to eat near Lake Carezza?
Yes. There is a restaurant and café at the visitor center, along with a small souvenir shop. Prices are a little inflated but if you need a quick bite it will do. There are also a few benches and tables along the loop trail if you want to stop for a picnic lunch or snack.
Can you visit Lago di Carezza at any time during the day?
It depends. If you’re visiting the lake for the hike you can go at any time of day. If instead you’re visiting for the Lago di Carezza Christmas Market, the market is generally only accessible on the weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Make sure to double check the Christmas market schedule for updated times and events! *
Can I bring my dog on the Lago di Carezza hike?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on the trail just make sure you keep them leashed.
Is the Lago di Carezza loop hike suitable for children?
YES! The hike is very easy and mostly flat, and you don’t have to worry about heights. You can even bring a stroller! However, I recommend it to be an all-terrain stroller as the path is unpaved and can get bumpy.
Are drones allowed at Lago di Carezza?
Although there are no signs prohibiting them at the lake (at least not as of this year), as a general rule, flying drones in national parks and protected land in Italy is prohibited. Various sources online do bring forth certain grey areas regarding national parks, but the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as such are protected. Please refrain from flying a drone unless you have a permit or have specific permission. Hefty fines could be issued and your device confiscated.
Have any other questions? Want to share your experience of the Lago di Carezza Hike? Please don’t hesitate to comment, I love hearing back from you and will try to help you in any way I can.
Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…
Happy Trails!
Need help planning your trip to the Dolomites? Check out these guides:
- Easy & Breathtaking Hike Along the Odle Mountains
- Hiking the Seceda Ridgeline
- How to Plan a Road trip to the Dolomites
- Climbing the Stunning Iron Path in Gran Cir
- Cycling in Val Pusteria – Spectacular Bike Path (great for families!)
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This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
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