Lake Dobbiaco: Nature, sport, and history among the Dolomites
Located at an altitude of 1,259 meters in the municipality of Dobbiaco, Lake Dobbiaco lies at the border between the Tre Cime Nature Park and the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. It’s a perfect place for those who love nature and outdoor activities in every season—from trekking to ice skating, from sport fishing to cycling excursions.
Features of Lake Dobbiaco
With a volume of 286,000 cubic meters, Lake Dobbiaco covers an area of 13 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 3.5 meters. Its ancient formation is due to landslides from Mount Serla, which created a delicate ecosystem. To protect the local flora and fauna, the lake was declared a protected area in 1977. Since the 1980s, annual sediment cleaning has been carried out to prevent natural silting, preserving its beauty and ecological balance.
Activities on water and ice
Lake Dobbiaco is not suitable for swimming, but it can be explored by rowboat or pedal boat, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty in an immersive natural setting. Its clear waters host swans, small fish, and migratory birds, fascinating both adults and children.
In summer, fishing enthusiasts can try catching trout or bullhead fish (with a valid permit), while in winter, when the lake becomes a natural sheet of ice, it’s perfect for ice skating and curling.
Hikes through nature and breathtaking views
There are several routes around the lake for hiking enthusiasts. The most popular include:
Lake Circular Trail: an easy 4.5 km path featuring 11 educational panels that describe the local flora and fauna. Perfect for families, the loop takes about one hour and is particularly engaging thanks to the installations explaining the rare migratory birds and diverse plant life found here. You can also double the distance by starting directly from the town of Dobbiaco.
Monte Lungo: a challenging 15 km hike with 980 meters of elevation gain, offering breathtaking views of Dobbiaco, the lake, and the Dolomites. Recommended for experienced hikers, this trail rewards every effort with spectacular panoramas.
Bike path along the Rienza River: a 7 km ride that follows the river to reach a World War I bunker in about 40 minutes. Ideal for those wishing to explore the region’s natural and historical heritage on two wheels.
The World War II bunkers
A few kilometers from the lake lies an underground defense system built to protect the border, known as the Vallo Alpino. Today, it has been transformed into a museum trail, where visitors can explore corridors, rooms, and historical documents related not only to World War II but also to the Cold War. A journey through time that tells the military history of the region.
How to get there
By car: From the A22 motorway, take the Bolzano Nord exit and continue on the SS49 towards Brunico and San Candido, then follow the signs to the lake. Paid parking available on site.
By bus: From the Dobbiaco station, take line 445 towards Cortina, which stops directly at the lake.
Perfect for hikers, families, and nature lovers alike, Lake Dobbiaco offers a unique experience combining relaxation, history, and the enchanting landscapes of the Dolomites.