Hike around Lake Dobbiaco: The Nature Trail
- Starting point: Lake Dobbiaco parking lot
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Trail length: 3 km
- Altitude: 1,259 m
- Elevation gain: 20 m
- Difficulty: Easy
The Lake Dobbiaco Nature Trail is an easy and flat walk, ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature with breathtaking views. Along the route, informative panels share insights into the local plants, animals, and geology, guiding you through wooden bridges, lush forests, and scenic spots perfect for relaxation.
Considering stops at various points of interest, the full loop takes at least 1 hour, making it an ideal option for a relaxing day with family or friends.
The start of the trail
After parking near the lake, take the Nature Trail, choosing whether to walk clockwise or counterclockwise. Following the clockwise direction, you are immediately welcomed by an incredible view of the lake, framed by the mountains of the Val di Landro: a spectacle that sets the tone for the beauty of the entire route.
A lesson from nature
Continuing along the southern shore of the lake, the water reflects the green of the spruces, while 11 educational stations guide you through the discovery of local flora, fauna, and geology. Walking at a leisurely pace, you can enjoy the changing reflections of the landscape, surrounded by lush vegetation and mountains mirroring in the lake.
After about half an hour of walking, you reach a small natural beach with white pebbles, one of the most picturesque spots on the trail, perfect for stopping and admiring the landscape or for letting children play and explore along the shore.
Between biotope and wetland
Resuming the walk, the trail veers away from the shore to enter the forest, where you’ll encounter the Rienza river, whose clear waters further enrich the atmosphere. Crossing wooden bridges and streams, you’ll pass through the wetland of the biotope, one of the last remaining environments of this kind in the Alps, inhabited by plants and small aquatic animals forming a delicate ecosystem.
In this evocative environment, where the sound of the river and the chirping of birds create a perfect natural symphony, nature also becomes interactive: the educational panels engage both adults and children, allowing them to feel like explorers through games, quizzes, and fun facts about the surrounding environment.
The return to the lake and Seerestaurant
The trail continues by returning to the northern shore of the lake, where a beautiful view of the water and the Seerestaurant opens up, perfect for a delicious break or simply to sit and enjoy the cool lake breeze.
Trail conclusion
The final section of the trail once again follows the Rienza river, which forms a small waterfall just before leaving the lake. Here, it’s not uncommon to spot swans and other aquatic species inhabiting these peaceful waters. A wooden walkway leads you back to the starting point, completing this enchanting loop.
More than just a walk, the Lake Dobbiaco Nature Trail is a journey through unforgettable scenery and valuable lessons on biodiversity, perfect for all ages.