**This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links in this article, I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Please see my full disclosure for further information.
An easy and spectacular loop trail, hiking around Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See in German) makes for the perfect half-day activity when in Val Pusteria (Pustertal, South Tyrol).
Mesmerizing with its fifty shades of shimmering teal and rather off the beaten path compared to its high-profile neighbor Lago di Braies, Dobbiaco Lake is a true gem even in the most chaotic summer months! With no hordes of tourists to battle (or selfie-sticks to dodge), visiting Toblacher See allows for a profound reconnection with nature.
WHAT YOU’LL SEE – Quietly tucked away in the beautiful Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park in north-eastern Italy, the lake’s loop trail embarks on a journey that moves through the likes of forests, wetlands, and streams… talk about diverse scenery! Along the loop, you might even spot a woodland creature or two.
Take your leisurely time around the path and have fun following the interactive nature trail that teaches about local flora and fauna – both kids and adults absolutely love it!
To ensure a fantastic visit, we’ve put together this handy guide to help quell any potential confusion you might have regarding your visit to Lago di Dobbiaco. From practical information to things to expect, this post has got you covered!
If you have a specific question, browse the table of contents or FAQ below and click to skip directly to the section you’re interested in.
Post Contents
Lago di Dobbiaco Hike – Loop Trail Overview
So, before we get into details…
Can you still see Lago di Dobbiaco without doing the loop trail?
- Yes, you can. You can get some of the best views from the north-shore and bridge, directly adjacent to the Hotel Baur and Car Park.
Having said that, if you have the time, I encourage you to complete the loop trail. It is extremely easy (suitable for even the smallest of kids), but nevertheless offers wonderful views and fun activities along the way (see sections below).
Where to Park: Lago di Dobbiaco parking (paid) – right off the SS51 main road.
Trail Difficulty: Very Easy
Distance: ≈ 2.6 km
Trail: Loop Circuit
Duration: 1-3 hrs. depending on pace and how many stops you take
Suitable for Children? Yes!
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash.
Good Base Towns: Dobbiaco, San Candido, Braies, Monguelfo, Villabassa, Brunico, Valdaora
Map of Lago di Dobbiaco – Reference Points
In describing the trail and explaining where to find certain viewpoints, I reference different landmarks and waypoints. Here is a map of all the most crucial locations so that you can better understand directions:
Activities Along the Dobbiaco Lake Loop Trail
As already mentioned, there are many optional points to stop at while circling the lake. Here are some of the most common things to do at Lago di Dobbiaco:
1 – Nature Trail Stops (Naturlehrpfad/Sentiero Natura Lago di Dobbiaco)
For kids, the counterclockwise nature trail at Lago di Dobbiaco is a favorite! Besides explaining the various fauna and flora of the area, there are a couple interactive stations along the path. My favorite was the long jump sand pit indicating the different jump lengths of certain native animals.
Kids and adults alike (I know I tried it lol!) can have fun comparing their jumps to the various mountain animals… I mean, did you know a tiny squirrel can jump up to 4 meters (13 feet)?!
OTHER FUN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS NEAR DOBBIACO:
- Dobbiaco Wildlife Zoo (Gustav Mahler Stube)
- Dobbiaco Adventure Park (Abenteuerpark Toblach)
- Dobbiaco Natural Swimming Pond (Laghetto Balneabile Naturale di Dobbiaco)
- Dobbiaco – Lienz Bike Ride
2 – Rent a Pedal Boat (pedalò)
If you’re dying for a swim but the water is too cold, the next best thing is to rent a pedal boat! Pedal your way around the lake and enjoy the everchanging scenery as you float amongst the crisp teal waters.
You’ll find the boat rental station adjacent to Seerestaurant – Ristorante Al Lago on the north-western side of the lake.
*Note that pedal boats are only available for rent in the summertime (mid-June – September)*
3 – Have a Picnic (or eat at a restaurant)
If you decide to eat at the lake, you can either bring a packed lunch for a picnic or decide to eat at one of the restaurants on site (see restaurants here). You can either pick a spot on the shoreline or make use of the many wooden tables and benches provided.
4 – Enjoy the Changing Scenery & Take Pictures!
The Lago di Dobbiaco Trail journeys through varying scenery. What starts as a walk skirting the banks of the lake’s shore, soon takes you through dense forests, swampy marshlands and up and over the trickling Rienza river. *(Don’t worry, you’re never traipsing through water –a fantastic wooden boardwalk allows for you to pass above the water and remain dry!)*
BEST VIEWPOINT OF LAKE – you’ll get the best lakeside view (with mountains in the background) at the following spots:
- North Shore: On the bridge and/or right in front of Seeschupf Restaurant – Il Fienile Restaurant
- Northwestern Shore: on the pebble beach you encounter soon after passing Seerestaurant – Ristorante al Lago (if walking in counterclockwise direction).
How to get to Lago di Dobbiaco
Getting to Dobbiaco Lake is extremely easy. Here are different directions based on your mode of transportation:
By Foot – You can easily walk to Dobbiaco Lake from Dobbiaco Town in about 1 hr.
Walking to Lago di Dobbiaco is perfect for those whom:
- Have accommodation in Dobbiaco Nuova.
- Want to lengthen the easy loop trail.
- Can’t find parking at the Lake.
- Don’t want to pay for parking at the lake.
NOT RECOMMENDED if you have limited time in the area. Rather, drive to the lake and use extra time leftover for other highlights in the area.
WALKING DIRECTIONS
Park at the Dobbiaco Train Station (free!) and make your way back to Dolomiti Road and turn left. From here, walk along the street and fork to the right when you reach Via al Lago. Keep walking all the way to the Nordic Arena (trail 29). A couple minutes after passing the Nordic Arena and Adventure Park the paved path will curve to the right crossing over the Rienza river on a small wooden bridge. Soon after crossing, the path becomes gravel as it re-enters the forest. Follow this path all the way to the Lake! Add at least 2 hrs to your excursion (1hr each way) if you plan on walking to Dobbiaco Lake.
By Car – You can easily drive right up to Lago di Dobbiaco via the SS51 road. The lake parking lot (paid) is right off the main road. Parking here can fill up quickly during high season (July-August), especially during the weekends!
- Bolzano to Lago di Dobbiaco | 1 hr. 30-min drive via A22, SS49, and SS51
- Cortina to Lago di Dobbiaco | 30-min drive via SS51
- Verona to Lago di Dobbiaco | 3hr+ drive via A22, SS49, SS51
- Venice (Mestre) to Lago di Dobbiaco |3hr+ drive via A27 and SS51
By Public Transportation – The 445 bus line (Toblach – Cortina) takes you from the Dobbiaco Train Station to Dobbiaco Lake. Transit time is about 5 minutes and buses depart every 2 hours. See updated timetable here.
When to Visit Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See)
Lago di Dobbiaco is visitable all year round! Deciding which season to visit in depends on what scenery you wish to see and which activities you’re interested in.
SUMMER (mid June – mid September) in our opinion is the best time to visit, especially if you have kids! This is the season where temperatures are pleasant enough for picnics, not to mention it’s the only season pedal boats are available for rental! Because of crowds, parking can be quite limited in peak months (July-August), but you can easily avert this by arriving early in the morning and avoiding weekends. *Note that boat rental and restaurants could still be closed in early June*
SPRING and FALL are great for fewer crowds, bird watching, and the changing colors of the seasons. Temperatures are however chilly, and the weather can be erratic.
WINTER offers snowy landscapes and ice-skating when the lake freezes over (no shimmering teal water or picnics this season!). I’ve even read of horse-drawn sleigh rides taking passengers from Dobbiaco Nuova to Dobbiaco Lake (*although I’ve never personally done this*). Please also note that the loop trail in winter might necessitate snowshoes. Call the tourist office beforehand to enquire about trail conditions.
FAQ – Visiting Lago di Dobbiaco
Still trying to figure out if Lago di Dobbiaco is a good fit? Gain some clarity by checking out the questions below:
Can you swim in Lago di Dobbiaco?
Although there are no signs that prohibit swimming in the lake, I would advise against it. Even on the hottest of days the water’s temperature hovers around 16C (60F) …brrrrr! That’s chilly even with a wetsuit!
Is the loop trail stroller friendly?
YES! There are plenty of families with strollers that embark on the loop trail. The path is entirely flat (unlike Lago di Braies with its stairs), however I nevertheless recommend you have a 3-wheel rugged/all-terrain stroller to better navigate the dirt/gravel path.
How much time does it take to walk around Lago di Dobbiaco?
How much time you need will depend on how many stops you plan on taking (and how laid-back you wish your walk to be):
- Without Stops: depending on your pace, loop trail can take 45 minutes to 1hr 30min approx.
- With Stops: if you wish to rent pedal boats and stop for a picnic, consider total time about 3 hours.
We always use the Dobbiaco Lake Trail as a “rest-day” and love taking our leisurely time. We generally spend 3 hours (+ 2 extra hours if came in by foot).
Is fishing allowed at Dobbiaco Lake?
YES! But be advised that you need a license and day permit which you can purchase at the tourist office in Dobbiaco or onsite in the bar-restaurant Al Lago – Seerestaurant.
Can I bring my own stand-up paddle board?
NO! Private boats or water vessels of any kind are prohibited from the lake – there are signs around the loop indicating this. If you wish to head out on the lake, you can always rent a pedal boat on-site.
Can I bike the loop trail at Lake Dobbiaco?
NO! Cycling is prohibited from the loop-trail. However, if you are keen on biking the area, there is a great down-hill bike trail that starts at the Dobbiaco train station and heads all the way into Austria! Don’t worry about having to cycle back, you’ll just hop on a train for your return.
Are dogs allowed on the Lago di Dobbiaco trail?
YES! Dobbiaco lake is dog-friendly however dogs must always be kept on a leash.
Do you need hiking shoes for the Lago di Dobbiaco hike?
NO! The path around the lake is very easy. Simple sneakers will do. You might however want to have warm clothing/raingear in your backpack in case wind picks up or the clouds turn. For a complete packing list for the Dolomites, read more here.
Are there restaurants and toilets on the trail?
Toilets | There are public restrooms in the parking lot or private restrooms at Seerestaurant – Ristorante Al Lago situated right on the trail (northwestern shore).*Please order something if you wish to use their private restroom!
Restaurants | We usually enjoy picnicking at Lago di Dobbiaco. There are many tables on the northside of the lake. Alternatively, you can dine at Seerestaurant – Ristorante Al Lago (right on the trail) or at Seeschupfe Restaurant – Il Fienile Ristorante (right adjacent to Camping Toblacher See). We did enjoy our meal at Il Fienile and there is a nice lake-view, however bear in mind that prices for dining right on the lake can be slightly inflated.
Is Lago di Dobbiaco worth it?
This really depends on how long you are staying in the area. If you’re in the Puster Valley for multiple nights than yes – it makes a great rest day to recover from more strenuous hikes! If you’re just staying a single day or passing through, then perhaps other highlights in the area are more unique.
Is camping allowed at Lago di Dobbiaco?
YES! There are a few trailer campsites at the lake. Choose whether you want to camp from your trailer or opt for a more luxurious experience by booking a bungalow or luxurious chalet! You’ll find numerous options with Camping Olympia and Camping Toblacher See.*Note that free camping is prohibited anywhere in the Dolomites*
Where to stay near Lake Dobbiaco
The best towns to stay in when exploring Lago di Dobbiaco are the following (from closest to farthest): Dobbiaco, San Candido, Villabassa, Monguelfo, Braies, Valdaora, and Brunico.
Having said that, here are a few recommendations based on budget and lake vicinity. From this list we’ve only personally stayed in Residence Simml; however, we extensively research all accommodations and only ever recommend those we would book for ourselves as well!
Budget/Mid-range – Residence Simml & Schlosser San Candido
10-min by car – San Candido Town, One or Two-Bedroom Apartment
Looking to book an extended stay? Look no further than Residence Simml in San Candido. Located downtown, the apartments are just a few minutes’ walk from any store you might need and only a brief drive from the many highlights of the Puster Valley (Lago di Braies, Sorapis, Three Peaks…etc). With a fully equipped kitchenette and several spacious balconies, it’s so convenient. Plus, if you have kids, the San Candido Fun Bob is literally on your doorstep!
Mid-Range – Hotel Rosengarten
5-min by car – Dobbiaco Town, Hotel with Restaurant
Just a stone’s throw away from Lago di Dobbiaco, Hotel Rosengarten is the perfect place to stay. The comfortable and spacious rooms are all beautifully designed with the most gorgeous wooden décor. And when it comes to meals, leave it all to the hotel! Enjoy their stellar buffet breakfast each morning and if you wish, throw in a delicious dinner to top it off.
Luxury – Skyview Chalets am Camping Toblacher See
Right on Dobbiaco Lake! Luxury Chalet
Want to wake up to lakeside views?! Look no further than the luxury chalets at Camping Toblacher See. Relax under the stars in the glass cube rooms or soak in your own private jacuzzi in the deluxe cabins; whichever you choose, ultimate leisure is what you’ll find. Unwind at the end of a hiking day at their gourmet restaurant or indulge in a glass of their finest wine from their tasting room. This adults-only accommodation will literally feel like paradise on earth… (Oh… and did I mention the exquisite breakfast?!)
So, there it is guys… my complete guide to visiting Lago di Dobbiaco. This easy yet spectacular loop is bound to leave you feeling recharged and rested!
If you have any further questions or would simply like to share your experience, please comment below or get in contact– it is always my pleasure to help! Plus, I LOOOVE hearing all your stories!
Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…
Buona Gita! Happy Touring!
More Inspiration for your Trip to the Dolomites:
- How to Plan a Trip to the Dolomites – Everything to Know!
- Stunning Iron Path to Gran Cir Peak (for first-time climbers!)
- Easy Adolf Munkel Trail: Explore the Spectacular Odle Peaks
- 10 Must-See Spots in the Dolomites
- Hike to the Edge of the World to the Seceda Ridgeline
Pin Me for Later!
This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
Leave a Reply