Lake Val Noana - Image 1
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Lake Val Noana

4.5
·41 reviews·, Italy

A stunning artificial lake and dam in the Dolomites, known for its dramatic scale and color-changing waters.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring/Summer mornings

Vibrant green lake hues

CrowdLow
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Lake Val Noana - Image 1

Lake Val Noana

Best Time

Spring/Summer mornings

Vibrant green lake hues

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning artificial lake and dam in the Dolomites, known for its dramatic scale and color-changing waters.

4.5
(41 reviews)

"Incredibly impressive, a massive turquoise reservoir with steep, high, and rocky shores."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive with Caution

The access road is very narrow with tunnels. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic.

🥾 Study Your Hike

The circular hike from Rifugio Fonteghi is beautiful but can be poorly signposted. Plan your route carefully.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 41 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Enormous Dam

The Enormous Dam

Lake Val Noana

An immense 126-meter high dam creating a stunning turquoise reservoir with steep, rocky shores.

Panoramic Walkways

Panoramic Walkways

Above Rio Neva

Walkways offering unique viewpoints over Rio Neva, leading to an observatory point for Lake Val Noana.

Tibetan Bridge

Tibetan Bridge

Near Rifugio Fonteghi

A beautiful Tibetan bridge that's part of the scenic circular hike around the lake.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Narrow Road

The access road to Lake Val Noana is famously narrow with several tunnels and requires constant vigilance for oncoming traffic. Be prepared for a slow, cautious drive and consider if your vehicle is suitable. Many visitors recommend this drive is worth the effort for the stunning views.

Embrace the Hike

While the lake itself is impressive, the surrounding area offers beautiful hiking opportunities. The circular route from Rifugio Fonteghi, including the Tibetan bridge, is highly recommended. However, be aware that some sections may be less signposted, so studying the route beforehand is crucial.

Best Times

When
Spring/Summer mornings
Why
Vibrant green lake hues
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn/Winter afternoons
Why
Striking blue lake colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍@mezzanoromantica Val Noana quando una gita è solo all'inizio!!! Val Noana when a trip is only just beginning!!! #primiero #sanmartinodicastrozza #trentino #dolomiti #mezzano #dolomiten #urlaub #family #adventure #lake #ponte #natura 📸 @enricapallaver Passione Dolomiti
passionedolomiti
1.2K likes • 48.5K views

🚗 Drive with Caution

The access road is very narrow with tunnels. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic. Reddit

🥾 Study Your Hike

The circular hike from Rifugio Fonteghi is beautiful but can be poorly signposted. Plan your route carefully. Reddit

Diga di Val Noana (TN) . . . #fpvlife #fpv #avata #dji #djiavata #airvuz #airvuzfpv #fpvdrone #dive #lake #noana #valnoana #nature #wood #sunset #dronefpv #fpvpilot
alberto_ardit
43 likes • 609 views
Avete mai percorso le passerelle panoramiche che passano sopra il Rio Neva arrivando al punto osservatorio sul Lago della Val Noana? 😍 Partenza nei pressi del Rifugio Fonteghi. #mezzanoromantica #valnoana #lake
mezzanoromantica
81 likes • 2.7K views

📸 Capture the Colors

The lake's color changes seasonally, from blue in cooler months to green in warmer ones. Reddit

📍 Start Near Fonteghi

Access the panoramic walkways and hiking trails near the Rifugio Fonteghi. Instagram

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive with Caution

The access road is very narrow with tunnels. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic. Reddit

🥾 Study Your Hike

The circular hike from Rifugio Fonteghi is beautiful but can be poorly signposted. Plan your route carefully. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The lake's color changes seasonally, from blue in cooler months to green in warmer ones. Reddit

📍 Start Near Fonteghi

Access the panoramic walkways and hiking trails near the Rifugio Fonteghi. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(41 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the immense scale of the dam and the striking, color-changing reservoir of Lake Val Noana. The surrounding natural beauty and hiking trails, including a Tibetan bridge, are highly praised. However, the extremely narrow and demanding access road is a significant drawback for many, requiring cautious driving and potentially limiting accessibility for some.

"The road to get there is a bit narrow but it's worth it."

Renza M

"A small lake created by the enormous dam.

Very beautiful and immense to see! It changes color depending on the season: blue in autumn/winter and green in spring/summer.

I recommend taking the circular hike that starts from the Fonteghi refuge, passes the beautiful nearby Tibetan bridge, and then passes the dam on the way back. However, I should point out that you need to carefully study the route because at a certain point it's no longer signposted, and you risk ending up at a different destination.

The only downside is the road to get there! It's very narrow, so you have to constantly watch out for oncoming traffic to give way."

Claudio Manesso

"A great place. It's incredibly impressive. A massive turquoise reservoir with steep, high, and rocky shores. The dam is 126 meters high. Beautiful views. Access is very steep and demanding. The narrow road includes several tunnels. Extreme caution is required."

Paweł POL

What People Like

Impressive dam and lake
Seasonal color changes
Scenic hiking trails

What People Dislike

Narrow access road
Poorly signposted trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lake Val Noana is accessible by car via a narrow, winding road with several tunnels. Extreme caution is advised due to oncoming traffic. Some visitors suggest it's a demanding drive but worth the scenery. Reddit

The road is very narrow, so larger vehicles might find it challenging. Be prepared to constantly watch for oncoming traffic and yield. Reddit

Information on public transport is limited, and driving is the primary method of access. It's best to check local transport schedules if you are not driving. Reddit

Expect a steep and demanding drive with narrow sections and tunnels. Patience and careful maneuvering are essential. Reddit

GPS is helpful, but be aware that the road conditions require your full attention. Always prioritize safe driving over relying solely on navigation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entrance fee mentioned for Lake Val Noana itself. Access to the lake and surrounding areas is generally free. Reddit

Lake Val Noana is an outdoor natural attraction, so it is accessible at all times. However, driving conditions may be more challenging in darkness. Reddit

No advance booking is required as it's a natural site. However, if you plan to visit the Rifugio Fonteghi, it's advisable to check their operating hours and reservation policy. Reddit

The main consideration is the challenging access road. Be mindful of weather conditions, especially in winter, which could affect road accessibility. Reddit

Drone usage might be subject to local regulations. One user captured footage with a DJI Avata, suggesting it's possible, but always check current rules. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the impressive dam, enjoy the changing colors of the lake, and explore hiking trails. The panoramic walkways and Tibetan bridge are also highlights. InstagramReddit

Many visitors recommend the circular hike starting from Rifugio Fonteghi, which includes the Tibetan bridge and passes by the dam. Reddit

Absolutely! The dramatic dam, the vibrant lake colors, and the surrounding mountain scenery offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

The Rifugio Fonteghi is located nearby and may offer refreshments and facilities. It's wise to check their opening times. Instagram

Expect a massive turquoise or blue reservoir surrounded by steep, high, and rocky shores, with lush woods in the vicinity. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The closest dining option is likely the Rifugio Fonteghi, which is near the starting point of some hiking trails. It's recommended to check their hours. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are beautiful spots to enjoy your own packed lunch while taking in the views. Reddit

Rifugios typically serve hearty mountain cuisine, often featuring local specialties. It's best to check their menu directly if possible. Instagram

It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, as services directly at the lake are limited. The Rifugio Fonteghi might have some options. Reddit

Nearby towns like Mezzano offer more dining options. Research local trattorias and restaurants for a wider selection. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The dam itself, the panoramic walkways, the Tibetan bridge, and the lake's surface reflecting the sky are prime photography locations. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the visual appeal of the landscape. Instagram

Use a wide-angle lens and include a person or a recognizable object in the frame to give a sense of scale against the massive structure. Instagram

Yes, the lake's color shifts from a vibrant blue in autumn/winter to a striking green in spring/summer, offering different photographic opportunities. Reddit

For the dam, consider a slightly smaller aperture for depth of field. For the lake's colors, experiment with polarizing filters to enhance saturation. Instagram

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