Are we looking for a serene escape packed with jaw-dropping views, fresh air, and a bit of history? Then Lake Misurina should be on our travel list.
Located in the heart of Italy’s Dolomites, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable adventure — let’s explore all the must-know tips to plan the perfect trip!
Where Is Lake Misurina?
Lake Misurina, or Lago di Misurina in Italian, is perched at an altitude of 1,754 meters (5,755 feet) in the Cadore region, part of Belluno Province, Veneto. It’s the largest natural lake in this area and is beautifully surrounded by some of the most iconic Dolomite peaks like the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Opening Hours and Ticket Info
The best part? Lake Misurina is open 24/7, and there’s no entrance fee! We can visit anytime without worrying about tickets. However, if we plan to park nearby, some parking lots might charge a small fee, usually around $5–$7 per day during the peak season.
How to Get There
- By Car: The easiest and most flexible way is by driving. From Cortina d'Ampezzo, it's about a 30-minute drive along well-paved mountain roads.
- By Bus: In summer (June to September), direct buses from Cortina d'Ampezzo and Auronzo di Cadore make reaching the lake easy. A bus ticket usually costs around $5–$8 one-way.
- By Train: The nearest train station is in Calalzo di Cadore. From there, buses connect to Misurina.
- Parking Tip: Public parking lots are available around the lake, especially near the hotels and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
We recommend visiting between late May and early October. Summer brings lush green landscapes and mirror-like reflections in the lake, while September offers golden autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter transforms the area into a snow-covered wonderland, but some facilities might close from November to March, and driving can be trickier.
Things to Do at Lake Misurina
- Walking Tour: There’s a flat, easy walking path around the lake, taking about 45 minutes to complete.
- Boat Rentals: In summer, we can rent pedal boats or rowboats for around $10–$15 per hour.
- Scenic Cafés: Relax in lakeside cafés with a cappuccino or a hearty Italian lunch.
- Hiking: Trails like the path to Tre Cime di Lavaredo start nearby. Perfect for a full-day hike!
Where to Stay
About 10 hotels and guesthouses surround the lake, with a total capacity of around 500 guests. Options range from cozy 3-star hotels to family-run inns. Average prices in summer are about $100–$200 per night depending on the view and amenities.
Popular choices:
- Grand Hotel Misurina (lakefront views)
- Hotel Sorapiss (great value)
- Hotel Miralago (cozy and friendly)
Local Food to Try
We should definitely taste some mountain specialties! Try:
- Polenta with mushrooms
- Casunziei (beet-filled ravioli)
- Strudel di Mele (apple strudel)
- Many hotels and restaurants around the lake offer traditional Cadore and South Tyrolean dishes.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Dress in Layers: Even in summer, mornings and evenings can get chilly.
- Bring Sunscreen: The sun at high altitudes can be surprisingly strong.
- Stay Hydrated: High elevation can make us thirsty faster.
- Respect Nature: Stick to trails and avoid disturbing local wildlife.
Special Fun Fact: Olympic Connection
Did we know Lake Misurina hosted the speed skating competitions during the 1956 Winter Olympics? It’s the last time Olympic speed skating took place on natural ice. Walking around here, we can almost feel the echoes of that historic moment.
Are We Ready to Fall in Love with Lake Misurina?
Lykkers, Lake Misurina is so much more than a beautiful lake — it’s a place where the mountains meet the sky, and every breeze feels like a fresh start. We can stroll around its sparkling waters, savor a lazy afternoon in a lakeside café, or set off on an adventure into the Dolomites. Every corner here has its own little magic waiting for us. So, are we ready to dive into this breathtaking beauty and create unforgettable memories together?
Spectacular Alpine Lake || Lago di Misurina || Best Places In Dolomites
Video by Ervinslens
