Lago di Sorapis
A stunning alpine lake in the Dolomites, famous for its surreal milky turquoise waters, accessible via a challenging but rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Lago di Sorapis
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in the Dolomites, famous for its surreal milky turquoise waters, accessible via a challenging but rewarding hike.
"The hike is worth it so much, be wary however that there will be a lot of tourists who come about and the paths leading up to the lake are small and really not spacious."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive very early or after 1:30 PM to secure parking at Passo Tre Croci.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Milky Turquoise Lake
Lago di Sorapis
A breathtaking, milky turquoise lake nestled amidst dramatic Dolomite peaks. Its unique color is a natural wonder.
Via Ferrata Sections
Trail to Lago di Sorapis
Challenging yet rewarding sections with cables and ladders, offering thrilling moments and incredible mountain vistas.
Rifugio Vandelli
Near Lago di Sorapis
A mountain hut offering refreshments and a place to rest with stunning views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Crowds
Hike Safely and Prepared
Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive very early or after 1:30 PM to secure parking at Passo Tre Croci.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery trails.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the hike; there's a hut for refills but it's best to be prepared.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Protect the delicate ecosystem; admire the lake's beauty without entering the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive very early or after 1:30 PM to secure parking at Passo Tre Croci.
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery trails.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the hike; there's a hut for refills but it's best to be prepared.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Protect the delicate ecosystem; admire the lake's beauty without entering the water.
🥪 Lunch with a View
Enjoy a packed lunch or visit Rifugio Vandelli (cash only) for a meal.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
Late afternoon light offers beautiful photo opportunities with fewer people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lago di Sorapis for its breathtaking, unique milky turquoise color, calling the hike 'worth it' despite its challenges. The stunning natural beauty is the main draw, offering incredible photo opportunities. However, many reviewers highlight the significant crowds on the narrow trails, which can detract from the experience, and caution about the hike's difficulty and exposed sections.
"Incredibly beautiful lake! The hike is worth it so much, be wary however that there will be a lot of tourists who come about and the paths leading up to the lake are small and really not spacious, often times there are tourists clogging up the paths.
Still worth the hike and the views!"
Itay Margolin
"Stunning looking blue lake. We did a loop trail that was a total of 10km hiking up the past and down to the lake. This pace is absolutely stunning with a Refugio nearby. There were so many people on this trail."
vu nguyen
"Amazing to see!! The lake colour is due to the finest rock particles which are suspended by the glacier waters. They go into the lake where the sunlight reflects in a specific way, causing this beautiful milky-turquoise colour. Please DO NOT touch or bathe in the water (as some people do) in order to obtain the natural ecosystem! Simply admire.. 🩵 Several options for the hike, some circuit. The trail is a combination of rocky and forest areas. Parts of it are steep, there are ladders and metal ropes at spots. Was crowded when we went, the later afternoon there was barely anyone on the way back. The rifugio (hut) lunch is from 11:30h-14:30h, cash payments only!"
Ellie Stoykova Photography & Travels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is Passo Tre Croci, near Cortina d'Ampezzo. From there, follow Trail 215.
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can reach Passo Tre Croci by bus from Cortina d'Ampezzo. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Driving to Passo Tre Croci is the most convenient option. There is parking available, but it fills up quickly.
Lago di Sorapis is typically inaccessible and dangerous in winter due to snow and ice. The hiking season generally runs from late spring to early autumn.
No, the hike is only accessible on foot. Cars must be parked at Passo Tre Croci.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Lago di Sorapis itself. The costs are associated with parking and any refreshments you purchase.
Lago di Sorapis is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, the hiking trails are best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn.
No, the hike to Lago di Sorapis is free to access.
Rifugio Vandelli does not require advance ticket purchases. Lunch is served from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and it's advisable to arrive within this window.
No specific permits are required for day visitors to hike to Lago di Sorapis.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is considered moderately difficult. It involves steep ascents, narrow paths, and some exposed sections with cables. It's not recommended for families with very young children or those with a severe fear of heights.
The round trip is approximately 7-11 km (4-7 miles) and takes about 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Layers of clothing are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is also advisable.
No, swimming in Lago di Sorapis is strictly prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem and unique water color.
Yes, Rifugio Vandelli is located near the lake and offers food, drinks, and restrooms.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Rifugio Vandelli, located by the lake, offers meals and refreshments. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water as well.
No, Rifugio Vandelli primarily operates on a cash-only basis. Make sure to bring enough cash.
The rifugio typically serves hearty mountain fare, including sandwiches, pasta, and local specialties.
Yes, picnicking is allowed. Many visitors bring their own food to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
The main dining option is Rifugio Vandelli near the lake. There are no other restaurants directly on the hiking trail.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and softer shadows.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and the lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant colors of the water.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected natural areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) or on weekdays. Going at dawn can result in near-empty views.
The milky turquoise color is due to fine rock particles suspended by glacier meltwater, which reflect sunlight uniquely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some older, experienced children might manage, the via ferrata-like elements and potential for scree make it a challenging and potentially risky trek for little ones. If you're looking for a more family-friendly Dolomite experience, consider easier trails or cable car accessible viewpoints. 💰 Budget Travelers
) and any food or drinks purchased at Rifugio Vandelli. The hike is free, so focus on minimizing travel and food expenses. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Remember to respect the environment and avoid disturbing the water for the sake of its natural beauty and ecosystem. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike: Challenges and Rewards
+1 This is often referred to as a 'via ferrata' section, though it's more of a secured trail. The effort is consistently described as 'worth it' by visitors, with the stunning payoff at the lake making the challenging hike a memorable experience. +1Key Takeaways for the Hike:
* Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, not for the faint-hearted or those with a severe fear of heights.
* Terrain: Rocky, steep, narrow paths, exposed sections with cables.
* Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours round trip.
* Essential Gear: Hiking boots, layers of clothing, water, and potentially trekking poles.
+1Many travelers emphasize the importance of checking weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, making the trail more dangerous when wet.
The Lake's Enchanting Color
* Color Source: Fine rock particles from glacier meltwater.
* Effect: Unique milky-turquoise hue due to light reflection.
* Conservation: Visitors are asked not to swim or disturb the water.
This natural wonder is a key reason why Lago di Sorapis is such a sought-after destination, offering a visual spectacle unlike any other.
Navigating Crowds and Timing
To mitigate this, strategic timing is key. Several sources recommend arriving very early in the morning, ideally before 8 AM, or visiting in the late afternoon, after 2 PM, when many day-trippers begin their descent.
+1 Some adventurous visitors even opt for an alpine start (hiking in the dark before sunrise) to experience the lake in near solitude. +1* Peak Times: Mid-day, weekends, and holidays.
* Best Times: Early morning (before 8 AM) or late afternoon (after 2 PM).
* Strategy: Consider an 'alpine start' for solitude.
+1By planning your visit around these times, you can significantly improve your chances of enjoying the serene beauty of Lago di Sorapis with fewer distractions.
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