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Lake Carezza in South Tyrol

A captivating Italian alpine lake steeped in nature and ancient legends

Lake Carezza (Italian: Lago di Carezza; German: Karersee) is one the most picturesque destinations in the Dolomites in Italy, captivating visitors with its unspoilt beauty. Located in Val d’Ega (Eggental Valley) at 1,520 metres above sea level, in the municipality of Nova Levante, this South Tyrol lake is renowned for its extraordinary colours and its connection to ancient legends. The surface area of Lake Carezza varies according to the season and amount of rainfall, but it is around 300 metres long and 140 metres wide. The maximum depth reaches approx. 22 metres. As a protected alpine lake, swimming in Lake Carezza is not permitted. However, a hike around this stunning lake offers an immersive experience in an unspoilt natural setting, where each season has its own distinctive charm.

What’s the best time to visit Lake Carezza?

From snow to autumn leaves, a journey through the seasons

Lake Carezza changes with each season, always offering stunning views. In winter, the lake is often iced over and surrounded by a fairytale landscape, perfect for snowshoeing and winter walks. As spring arrives, the thaw reveals the lake’s emerald-green waters once more, framed by the first alpine flowers of the year. Summer is the perfect time for hikes in the Latemar Forest or for a leisurely walk along the scenic path around the lake. But autumn is when the lake becomes truly magical: the autumn leaves transform the landscape with golden and reddish hues, creating spectacular reflections in the crystal-clear water.

Carezza Dolomites-StorytellerLabs
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Helmuth Rier

Lake Carezza hikes

Discover Lake Carezza on foot: three scenic trails

Lake Carezza is the perfect destination if you want to combine the pleasure of a mountain hike with breathtaking scenery. There are several trails of different types and lengths in and around the lake, suitable for a summer day in the mountains or a winter walk in the snow. Have a look at our proposed walks and choose the one that suits you best.

  • Lake Carezza trail and suspension bridge
    A short 20-minute circular walk around Lake Carezza, perfect to admire the lake up close and enjoy its colours and reflections in complete tranquillity.
  • Lake Carezza trail and suspension bridge
    A walk starting from Lake Carezza car park that crosses the picturesque suspension bridge. This circular trail takes around 40 minutes and offers unique views of woodland and sweeping panoramas.
  • Long circular route around the lake
    If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a longer circular walk, this trail takes 1 hour 30 minutes. This route also crosses the suspension bridge, allowing you to explore the surrounding area with an even wider perspective.
Il Lago di Carezza in autunno con le Dolomiti sullo sfondo
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Clemens Zahn

The Legend of Ondina, the Nymph of Lake Carezza

The legend behind the beauty of the lake’s ever-changing colours

Lake Carezza isn’t just a natural wonder, but also the setting for an ancient legend. It is said that the nymph Ondina lived in its waters, and that her singing enchanted passing travellers. The sorcerer of Masarè, who had fallen in love with her, asked the witch Langwerda for help, and she suggested creating a rainbow to lure Ondina out. Attracted by the rainbow, Ondina emerged from the water, but when she recognised the sorcerer, she fled in fear, never to be seen again. Overcome by grief and anger, the sorcerer shattered the rainbow and cast its fragments into the lake, giving the water its distinctive changing colours. That’s why Lake Carezza is also known as the “Rainbow Lake”.

As a tribute to this legend, a bronze statue depicting Ondina on a submerged rock in the lake was installed in 2005. This work, created by sculptor Rinaldo “Reinhold” Cigolla from Val di Fassa, is only visible when the water level is low.. 

Accommodation in Eggental

For a truly special holiday, choose a hotel close to Lake Carezza, where the alpine landscape changes its appearance with every season. If you’re looking for total peace and quiet and want to keep your independence, a comfortable apartment is the ideal solution for you. If, on the other hand, you want to immerse yourself in nature, a farm holiday in an “agriturismo” will offer you an authentic experience and traditional cuisine.

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Sustainable Südtirol
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Ivan Bortondello

Lake Carezza by bus

Explore Lake Carezza the easy and sustainable way, taking bus route 180 from Bolzano. In just 45 minutes, you can reach this natural gem directly, enjoying a stress-free journey while reducing your carbon footprint. Make the most of the Südtirol Alto Adige Guest Pass for unlimited travel, or choose a single ticket or a prepaid travel card.

Südtirol Guest Pass

Lake Carezza weather

Region
South Tyrol
Bolzano / Bozen
Brixen / Bressanone
Bruneck / Brunico
Meran / Merano
Schlanders / Silandro
Sterzing / Vipiteno

We also recommend…

After visiting Lake Carezza, why not make the most of your trip and spend a few days in Eggental? In the valley between Catinaccio and Latemar, you’ll find Dolomite peaks, picture-perfect sunsets and fantastic hiking trails waiting for you.

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