Lago di Carezza (Karersee) Travel Guide | Visiting the Rainbow Lake in the Dolomites

Planning to visit Lago di Carezza, the famous rainbow lake of the Dolomites in northern Italy? This stunning alpine lake, also known as Karersee in German, is one of the most beautiful and photographed places in South Tyrol.

Surrounded by dense forests and the dramatic peaks of the Latemar mountain range, Lago di Carezza is famous for its crystal-clear water and incredible colors that range from turquoise to deep emerald green. On a calm day the lake perfectly reflects the surrounding Dolomite mountains, creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Italian Alps.

I visited Lago di Carezza several times during my road trips through the Dolomites and totally understand why this place has become such an iconic stop for travelers exploring northern Italy.

In this Lago di Carezza travel guide I share everything you need to know before visiting the rainbow lake of the Dolomites, including the best time to visit, how to get there, parking tips, hiking trails, viewpoints and the fascinating legend behind this magical mountain lake.

If you are exploring more of this incredible region, also check my guide about things to do in Alta Badia in summer, another spectacular destination in the Dolomites.

Where is Lago di Carezza (Karersee)

Lago di Carezza, known as Karersee in German, is located in South Tyrol in northern Italy, a region where both Italian and German are official languages. Because of this you will see the lake referred to by both names on road signs and maps.

The lake sits at an altitude of about 1,520 meters (4,985 ft.) above sea level at the foot of the spectacular Latemar mountain range in the Dolomites. Although Lago di Carezza is relatively small, it is one of the most famous lakes in the Dolomites measuring around 300 meters long (984 ft.) and about 140 meters (460 ft.) wide, but its incredible colors and mountain backdrop make it one of the most famous lakes in the Dolomites.

The water level changes throughout the year because the lake is mainly fed by underground springs from the Latemar mountains. In early summer the water level is usually higher, while towards winter the lake can become much smaller.

Lago di Carezza is a protected natural monument and part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. The deepest point ever recorded is around 22 meters (72 ft.), although the average depth is closer to about 17 meters.

Map of Lago di Carezza

If you are wondering where Lago di Carezza is located, the map below shows the position of this famous mountain lake in the Dolomites of South Tyrol. Lago di Carezza, also known as Karersee, lies along the scenic SS241 road between Bolzano and Val di Fassa.

Its location makes it one of the easiest lakes to visit in the Dolomites and a perfect stop on a road trip through northern Italy. Lago di Carezza is also close to other beautiful destinations in the region such as Alta Badia, Val di Fassa and the Latemar mountain area.

If you are planning a longer Dolomites itinerary, Lago di Carezza is an easy day trip from Bolzano and also combines well with nearby mountain villages, scenic passes and some of the most famous lakes in South Tyrol.

Best time to visit Lago di Carezza in the Dolomites

I once visited the lake in winter and I can tell you it was nothing like it is in summer. The lake is frozen with a bunch of snow on it. The backdrop of the mighty Latemar Mountain Range are still epic, but definitely come here when the snow and ice is gone.

Towards April the ice is melted and the water level starts to rise with the coming of the Spring season. Days are shorter, temperatures are lower, but tourists are rare at that time of the year. Therefore the spring months of April and May are the best time to visit Lago di Carezza.

Peak months in summer are July and August, expect big crowds on these days. September and October are also low-season and not that busy.

But regardless what time of the year you visit Lake Carezza, either go early or late. Sunrise is absolutely epic, so is sunset. Therefore I advice you to stay in a hotel near Lago di Carezza. In the early morning you will have the lake all to yourself!

Also try to go on a sunny day. The colors of the lake are mesmerising and the sunlight hitting the water pierces through to the bottom. On a cloudy day you won’t have any of that and it will look a little disappointing may be.

How to get to Lake Carezza

The best way to get to the lake is by car. If you have your own car you simply use Google Maps or any kind of navigation to get you there. Lago di Carezza is located directly next to the scenic mountain road SS241.

While exploring the Dolomites it is very useful to have mobile data for navigation, hiking maps and checking bus schedules. Before traveling to Italy I usually arrange my mobile data in advance.

If you want to do the same, check my guides about the best eSIM for Italy, the best unlimited data eSIM for Italy, the best prepaid SIM card for Italy or my guide about buying a SIM card at Venice Airport.

By car to Karersee

The drive from Bolzano is about 35 minutes via the SS241 in west direction. It is a scenic ride through tunnels winding mountain roads and picturesque villages. Be careful there are a bunch of speed traps along this road. Some are max 50 km/h, some are 40 km/h.

Are you staying in Val di Fassa then take the SS241 in East direction and follow this road for only 20 minutes until you reach the lake.

From Trentino to Lago di Carezza is 85 kilometers and take a little more than 1 hour. Cortina d’Ampezzo is also 85 kilometers away but the roads through the mountains take you 2 hours.

Parking at Lago di Carezza

No need to worry about getting rid of your car as there is a big parking area next to the lake. Prices for parking are very reasonable. The first 15 minutes are free, then it is like €1 EUR per hour, but 6 hours cost for example only €4 EUR.

If you are looking to park your camper van next to Lake Carezza you pay €30 EUR per day, Im not sure if there are electricity plugs, but I guess not.

If you drive into the parking area you need to grab a ticket from the machine to open the gate. Next to the restaurant there is a ticket machine where you will need to insert your parking ticket and pay the due amount upon leaving. The machine accepts all major credit cards.

By bus to Lake Carezza

There is a bus stop right in front of the lake and as there is only one road (SS241) from Bolzano to Vall di Fassa it is pretty straight forward getting to Lago di Carezza by bus.

Bus 180 goes every 20 minutes from the Bolzano bus station to Lago di Carezza and is around €5 EUR for a single ride. Duration about 50 -70 minutes. See below.

From Val di Fassa there is a bus (also nr. 180) every 2 hours plus some extra timings. The ride takes only 20 minutes and costs €2 EUR.

Click here for more info about the bus time schedules and prices in South Tyrol.

Things to do at Lago di Carezza

Walk around Lago di Carezza

The most popular activity at the lake it to walk the circular route around the lake which gives you scenic views over the lake from all angles. It is an easy 20 minute walk that is predominantly flat. Lago di Carezza is completely fenced off and there is a path along, you can’t get lost!

Hiking around Lago di Carezza

The most popular activities around Lake Carezza are hiking and e-mountainbiking. There are numerous hiking trails around Lago di Carezza, but the most popular one is of course the loop around the lake.

There are several hikes to the nearby villages like for example a 2 hour trail (downhill) that leads to Obereggen. The hike from Obereggen to Lake Carezza takes you through the forest and is about 3.5 to 4 hours.

See the picture below for some other recommendations for hiking around Lago di Carezza.

There is a mountain hut close to the trail called Stadlalm, which serves food & drinks. The Stadlalm is closed on Thursdays.

Cross the hanging bridge (Ponte Sospeso)

At the end of the parking lot there is a trail leading over a hanging bridge, it is a short walk from the visitor center.

Ponte Sospeso crosses a deep valley and gives you incredible views over the surrounding area.

Visit the Karersee viewing platform

There is a viewing platform with amazing views over the lake. At the viewing platform there are information signs where you can also read about Storm Vaia and more background information about the lake.

See Lago di Mezzo (Mittersee)

When hiking around Laka Carezza in the summer months there is actually a second lake a little uphill. From the Karersee to Mittersee or Lago di Mezzo is only about 20 minutes walk. There is only water in the lake until mid summer as the places tends to dry up in the months after.

Visit the Lake Carezza Visitor Center

When you reach the lake you will find a visitor center opposite of the road. Here there are free of charge toilets, information about hikihg around Lago di Carezza, maps, parking lot, a souvenir shop, a restaurant and a bar.

Grab lunch at the restaurant

The restaurant at the Visitor Center serves pretty simple food, but surprisingly good actually. The antipasti plate with ham & cheese was a good snack.

Its setting is less spectacular and there is no view over the lake or the mountains. Just for a quick bite I would recommend sitting here. Prices are very reasonable like in most places in South Tyrol.

Rules when visting Lago di Carezza

Swimming in Lago di Carezza

I bet on a hot summer day the first thing you think about when you visit Lago di Carezza is that you want to jump in this crystal clear water. But well I guess I just ruined that dream for you.

The Karersee is protected natural landmark and fenced all around. To keep the lake as natural as it is, it is prohibited to climb the fence and get close to the water. There are signs all around saying that swimming in Lago di Carezza is prohibited.

Don't climb the fence

There is a big rock sticking out in front of the lake with the magical Latemar Dolomite peaks in the backdrop. Yes it is the ultimate photo for Instagram. No worries there is no long line to get that photo, because IT IS NOT ALLOWED!

Basically trying to get that ultimate shot you are violating the rules! Be aware that there is security all around. People who do climb the fence will be fined!

Yes you can come super early before everyone else arrives, but is it really worth breaking the rules and giving the bad example?

Drones rules

As I found no sign saying drones are not allowed I asked one of the security guys around. He was resolute in his answer: drones are not allowed and will be confiscated if they catch you. As much as I would have loved flying, I didn’t wanna break the rules.

The Legend of Lago di Carezza

The story goes that once a beautiful nymph, named Ondina, called Lake Carezza her home. Her beauty and her enchanting singing caught the attention of a Wizard named Masare. He fell in love with the mermaid but she hid in the lake when he came to visit her.

The wizard was adviced by a witch called Langwerda who told him to create a rainbow from the Rosengarten to the lake that would surely draw the nymph out. If he would then dress up like a seller of precious stones and jewels he could catch the nymph.

As soon as the nymph came out of the water the admire the rainbow the wizard ran to the lake but forgot to disguise as the jewel salesman. The nymph emerged quickly into the lake and never to be seen. The wizard got so angry that he threw the rainbow into Lake Carezza and that is why it is now called the Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites with all its beautiful emerald colors.

You can read all about the legend of Lago di Carezza from the signs on the viewing platform.

Cool fact about Lago di Carezza: there is a bronze statue of Nymph Ondina hidden underwater. When the waters are low in winter the statue emerges above the water. Scuba diving is also been done in this crystal clear water to find the statue of nymph Odina.

Storm Vaia

Unfortunately at the end of 2018 a massive storm hit the Dolomites. Storm Vaia reached wind speeds of up to 200 km/h and left a devastating trail. It uprooted more than 20 million trees and destroyed more than 5,000 hectares of forest.

In winter 2019 I saw the devastation with my own eyes, simply unbelievable what Storm Vaia caused to this area. Nowadays the fallen trees are taken away and it open spots in the forests around the Karersee are easily spotted. It will take up to 150 years for these areas to grow back like before.

Best day trips from Lago di Carezza

Lago di Carezza is not only one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, it is also perfectly located for exploring more of South Tyrol and the surrounding mountain valleys. Because the lake sits along the scenic SS241 road between Bolzano and Val di Fassa, it is easy to combine your visit with several other famous destinations in the Dolomites.

If you are planning a road trip through northern Italy, these are some of the best places to visit near Lago di Carezza.

Val di Fiemme

Just south of Lago di Carezza you will find Val di Fiemme, a beautiful valley known for its alpine meadows, scenic hiking trails and outdoor adventures. It is a fantastic destination for summer hiking, mountain biking and exploring traditional mountain huts. Read my guide about Val di Fiemme in summer for travel tips and the best outdoor activities.

Val di Fassa

Just a short drive east of Lago di Carezza you will reach Val di Fassa, one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites. The valley is famous for its dramatic mountain scenery, hiking trails and charming alpine villages.

Alta Badia

Another spectacular destination nearby is Alta Badia, a region known for its incredible hiking, mountain huts and scenic cycling routes around the Sella massif. If you are exploring the Dolomites in summer it is definitely worth spending a couple of days there. Check my guide about things to do in Alta Badia in summer for travel tips.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

About two hours from Lago di Carezza you will find the famous alpine town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Surrounded by dramatic Dolomite peaks, Cortina is one of the most iconic destinations in the region and will host the Winter Olympics 2026.

Lago di Braies

Another very famous lake in the Dolomites is Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee. The lake is famous for its turquoise water and wooden boats and is one of the most photographed places in northern Italy.

Because of its central location in the Dolomites, Lago di Carezza is an easy stop on a longer Dolomites road trip that includes alpine lakes, mountain passes and charming South Tyrol villages.

Where to stay near Lago di Carezza

If you want to experience Lago di Carezza at its best, the smartest thing to do is stay nearby and visit the lake early in the morning. Sunrise is when the water is usually calm and the reflections of the Latemar mountains are at their most spectacular. Staying close to the lake also allows you to avoid the crowds that arrive later in the day.

The best places to stay near Lago di Carezza are the villages of Nova Levante (Welschnofen), Carezza and the small hamlets around the Latemar mountain area. From these villages the lake is only a short drive or even walking distance.

If you want to stay as close as possible to the lake, Residence Chris Appart is one of the best options. The apartments are located only about 1.2 km from Lago di Carezza, meaning you can even walk to the lake for sunrise.

For a more comfortable stay with wellness facilities, Sporthotel Alpenrose is a fantastic choice. The hotel features both indoor and outdoor pools and is located less than 2 km from Lago di Carezza.

Another good option in the area is Hotel Adler, located in Nova Levante. From here you can reach the lake in about a 20 minute walk or a short drive.

If you are planning a longer trip through South Tyrol and the Dolomites, there are also some incredible mountain hotels worth checking out. During my travels in the region I stayed at several fantastic properties including Hotel Sonnalp in Obereggen, the beautiful Hotel Winkler Sport & Spa Resort and the luxurious Hotel Chalet Mirabell near Merano.

Other amazing hotels in the Dolomites and South Tyrol include Boutique Gourmet Hotel Orso Grigio, the unique Schloss Hotel Korb and the modern forest retreat Hotel Saltus.

Staying in this region makes it easy to combine a visit to Lago di Carezza with other spectacular destinations in the Dolomites such as Alta Badia or Val di Fiemme.

Other lakes in North Italy worth visiting

Other amazing lakes in this area are: Lago Di Braies (2 hours), Lago di Tovel in Trentino (1 hour 10 min), Lago di Molveno (1 hour 40 min), Lago di Misurina (2 hours 20 minutes).

Lago Di Braies is probably the most well known lake in the Dolomites and an absolute stunner, but expect huge crowds in summer. It is also called the Pragser Wildsee and very touristy, a real Instagram hotspot.

Lago di Molveno is a lesser known lake, but absolutely stunning and totally worth going if you are traveling from Lago di Carezza in the direction of Trentino. Don’t skip this one!

In case you are traveling towards Cortina d’Ampezzo from Lago di Carezza then make sure you visit Lago di Molveno.

Frequently asked questions about Lago di Carezza

Is Lago di Carezza worth visiting?

Yes, Lago di Carezza is absolutely worth visiting. Also known as Karersee, it is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites and famous for its emerald green water, mountain reflections and the dramatic backdrop of the Latemar peaks. It is one of the best stops on a Dolomites road trip.

What is the best time to visit Lago di Carezza?

The best time to visit Lago di Carezza is in spring, early summer or autumn on a sunny day. For the best experience, go early in the morning or around sunset when the lake is calmer and there are fewer people. July and August are the busiest months.

Can you swim in Lago di Carezza?

No, swimming in Lago di Carezza is not allowed. The lake is a protected natural monument in South Tyrol and fenced off to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Visitors are not allowed to cross the barriers or enter the water.

How much time do you need at Lago di Carezza?

Most travelers spend between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours at Lago di Carezza. That gives you enough time to enjoy the viewpoints, walk the easy trail around the lake and visit the viewing platform. If you also want to hike to nearby spots like Mittersee or explore the surrounding trails, you can easily spend half a day here.

How do you get to Lago di Carezza?

The easiest way to get to Lago di Carezza is by car via the scenic SS241 road between Bolzano and Val di Fassa. There is also a public bus from Bolzano that stops right in front of the lake, making it possible to visit Lago di Carezza without a car.

Is there parking at Lago di Carezza?

Yes, there is a large paid parking lot right next to Lago di Carezza. Parking is easy and convenient, especially if you arrive early in the day. There is also a visitor center, restaurant and bus stop near the parking area.

Why is Lago di Carezza called the Rainbow Lake?

Lago di Carezza is called the Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites because of its vivid colors, which range from turquoise and green to deep blue depending on the light and water level. According to local legend, the lake got its magical colors from a rainbow thrown into the water by a wizard.

Is Lago di Carezza the same as Karersee?

Yes, Lago di Carezza and Karersee are the same lake. Lago di Carezza is the Italian name and Karersee is the German name, which is commonly used in South Tyrol.

Final thoughts on visiting Lago di Carezza

Visiting Lago di Carezza was easily one of the highlights of my trips through the Dolomites. The combination of emerald colored water, the dramatic peaks of the Latemar mountain range and the peaceful forest setting makes this place feel almost unreal.

If you arrive early in the morning, when the lake is calm and the mountains reflect perfectly in the water, you will quickly understand why Lago di Carezza is often called the Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites.

The lake is also a perfect stop on a longer Dolomites road trip. From here you can easily continue your journey to incredible destinations such as Alta Badia, explore the alpine landscapes of Val di Fiemme or visit some of the other spectacular lakes in the region.

If you are planning your trip to Italy and want to stay connected while exploring the mountains, check out my guides about the best eSIM for Italy, the best prepaid SIM card for Italy or my guide about buying a SIM card at Milan Airport.

I hope this Lago di Carezza travel guide helps you plan your visit to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites.

Enjoy the mountains and safe travels!

• italy
• dolomites
• karersee
• lago di carezza
• south tyrol
• trentino