Lago di Carezza Guide: How to Get to the Alpine Lake in South Tyrol (Karersee)

Colourful alpine lake in the Dolomites

Lago di Carezza is one of those places that stays with you.

The emerald-green water, the dramatic Latemar mountains in the background and the dense conifer forest look like something from a painting.

The lake isn’t particularly large, but it’s still one of the most well-known stops in the Dolomites – both among photographers and on Instagram, where it’s a frequent favourite.

Lago di Carezza (Karersee in German or Lake Carezza in English) is just a 30-minute drive from Bolzano and easy to reach, which also means it’s rarely a quiet spot.

We made a quick stop here on our first trip to the Dolomites in June and were completely taken by the colours and reflections in the water. We’ll definitely come back one day.

In this guide to Lago di Carezza, we cover why it’s worth a visit, the walking route around the lake, practical info about opening hours and parking, when to visit, and our best tips for making the most of your time there.

Where to stay near Lago di Carezza

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• Luxury: Castel Hörtenberg – Exclusive Renaissance castle in Bolzano with outdoor pool, steam room, sauna and fitness facilities.
• Value for money: Residence Antares – Apartments in various sizes with an indoor pool and a children’s play area. Ideally situated for both hiking and skiing in Selva di Val Gardena.
• Budget: X Alp Hotel – Book well in advance to get a good location between Lago di Carezza and Canazei.

Search for the best hotels near Lago di Carezza here or read our comprehensive guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.

What is Lago di Carezza?

Lago di Carezza is a small alpine lake in South Tyrol, Northern Italy, that looks like something from a fairy tale.

It’s a classic (and popular) stop in the Dolomites, best known for its iconic scene: emerald-green water reflecting conifers and jagged mountain peaks.

The lake is fed by underground springs from the nearby Latemar mountains and melting snow, so its depth changes with the seasons.

It goes by several names: in Italian, it’s Lago di Carezza, while the German name is Karersee – both are commonly used.

In English, it’s known as Lake Carezza, and occasionally as Rainbow Lake, inspired by a local legend and the shifting colours of the water.

Along with Lago di Braies, Lago di Carezza is one of the most famous and photographed lakes in the Dolomites – and it’s easy to see why!

Map of Lago di Carezza

Lago di Carezza (Karersee) lies in South Tyrol, northern Italy, between the Latemar and Catinaccio massifs in the western Dolomites.

It’s just south of Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), which we’ve also written about, and roughly a 30-minute drive from Bolzano, the largest nearby city.

The lake is fairly small, measuring about 300 metres (984 feet) long and 140 metres (460 feet) wide.

It sits at an altitude of 1,520 metres (5,000 feet) and is surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and dense coniferous forest.

Why visit Lago di Carezza

Lago di Carezza is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers exploring the Dolomites.

The lake is easy to reach and doesn’t require any hiking – unless you want to take the short walk around it.

We were drawn by the iconic view we’d seen in photos before our visit, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

One late afternoon in June, we passed the lake while travelling between destinations.

Although we didn’t spend long there, it’s without a doubt one of the best viewpoints we’ve seen in the Dolomites.

Note: Crossing the fence to the other side of the lake is not allowed, though you’ll (unfortunately) find plenty of pictures online of people standing right on the shore or on the rocks.

Why you shouldn’t visit Lago di Carezza

Although Lago di Carezza is a beautiful and popular destination, some might find it a bit overrated.

Thanks to its easy access, the area gets very busy during the high season (especially in July and August), meaning you’ll likely be sharing the stunning views with plenty of other visitors.

The path around the lake can also become quite crowded, which can take away some of the magic…

If you have the chance to visit outside the high season (from October to June), we’d definitely recommend it.

You’ll enjoy a much calmer experience while still taking in the impressive scenery without the crowds.

There’s not a lot to do here besides enjoying the view and snapping photos, so if photography isn’t your thing or you’re after more of a challenge, other parts of the Dolomites might be a better fit.

Tip: For more hikes and viewpoints, have a look at our guide to experiences in the Dolomites.

Hiking around Lago di Carezza

Once you’ve enjoyed the classic viewpoint over Lago di Carezza, it’s worth taking the short walk around the lake if you have the time and feel like it.

The route is easy and takes around 15-20 minutes (about 1 kilometre/0.6 miles).

You’ll follow a clearly marked path all the way round, with plenty of different views of the lake and the mountains behind.

There are several good spots to pause and take photos, though it’s not permitted to go right down to the water’s edge.

The path is straightforward and doesn’t require special footwear (unless there’s snow) – ordinary shoes are fine, and most children can manage it easily.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are longer hikes nearby that lead deeper into the mountain landscape.

Practical information about Lago di Carezza

Opening hours

Lago di Carezza is open year-round and has no official opening hours, so you can visit the lake at any time.

There’s a visitor centre by the lake which is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00. In winter, it closes earlier, at 17:00.

You’ll also find free public toilets, two snack bars, souvenirs and a drinking fountain where you can fill your own bottle with fresh water.

Price

Visiting Lago di Carezza is free!

If you’re arriving by car, though, you’ll need to pay for parking. We’ve included more details on that further down in the guide.

Can you swim at Lago di Carezza?

Lago di Carezza is a protected nature reserve, and swimming in the lake is not allowed.

To help preserve the area, you shouldn’t cross the fence either.

Even though there are plenty of photos online of people who’ve done it, we think it’s a shame to damage nature and break the rules just for a picture.

Drone regulations

Flying a drone at Lago di Carezza is prohibited due to its status as a nature reserve.

To help preserve the peace and protect local wildlife and plant life, we encourage everyone to respect the rule, even if it’s tempting to capture the beautiful lake from above.

How to get to Lago di Carezza

The easiest and quickest way to get to Lago di Carezza is by car – that’s how we did it too.

It also gives you the most flexibility, especially if you want to arrive early or leave later in the day.

Below, we’ve included information on driving times from nearby towns, parking and the public transport options available.

Driving time from towns in the Dolomites

Driving time to Lago di Carezza naturally depends on where you’re staying in the area, and it can vary quite a bit, as distances in the Dolomites are long and the roads are often winding.

Here are some approximate travel times from towns and cities near Lago di Carezza:

• Nova Levante (Welschnofen): 10-minute drive. The closest town, just 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) from the lake.
• Vigo di Fassa (Wiegen im Fasstal): 20-minute drive. Located east of the lake on the other side of the mountain pass, around 13 kilometres (8 miles) away.
• Canazei: 35-minute drive. A popular town in Val di Fassa, approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles) from Lago di Carezza, further east/northeast past Vigo di Fassa.
• Bolzano: 30-minute drive. The largest city in the area, about 28 kilometres (17.4 miles) northwest of the lake.
• Ortisei (St. Ulrich): 1-hour drive. A town in Val Gardena, around 55 kilometres (34 miles) to the north – a great base for exploring the Dolomites.
• Bressanone (Brixen): 1-hour drive. One of the oldest towns in South Tyrol, located roughly 58 kilometres (36 miles) north of the lake and well placed for exploring the region.

Parking

There are three parking areas at Lago di Carezza.

P1 is the closest but requires a fee, while P2 and P3 are free, though a little further from the lake.

P1 (closest to Carezza)

For the easiest access to the lake and visitor centre, choose parking lot P1.

It’s ideal for families with children, older visitors or anyone who wants to get there quickly and enjoy the view.

Keep in mind that it can fill up during the high season.

The following parking fees apply to standard cars and motorcycles*:

• Up to 1 hour: 3 euros (~ 3.5 USD)
• 1-2 hours: 6 euros (~ 7.1 USD)
• 2-6 hours: 9 euros (~ 10.6 USD)
• 6-12 hours: 15 euros (~ 17.7 USD)
• 12-24 hours: 30 euros (~ 35.3 USD)

For caravans or buses, the fees are slightly higher*:

• Up to 3 hours: 9 euros (~ 10.6 USD)
• 3 hours – 12 hours: 22 euros (~ 25.9 USD)
• 12 hours – 24 hours: 40 euros (~ 47.1 USD)

You can pay by card or cash.

The parking lot is video-monitored.

See up-to-date parking fees here.

*The prices are from 2025.

P2 (Schönblickweg/Via Bellavista)

About a 10-15 minute walk from Lago di Carezza, you can find free parking at parking lot P2 along Via Bellavista (Schönblickweg).

However, caravans are not officially permitted to park here.

P3 (Paolina)

Another free option is the larger parking lot P3, located further into town.

It’s about a 30-minute walk to Lago di Carezza from here.

Caravans can stay overnight for 10 euros (~ 11.8 USD) between 19:00 and 7:00.

Public transport

There’s a bus stop right by the lake called Karersee/Lago di Carezza.

Buses 180, 184 and N180 serve this stop, including routes from Bolzano (around 50 minutes).

You can plan your journey by public transport here by entering your starting point.

Tickets can be bought directly on the bus.

If you’re staying overnight in the area and have a Guest Pass Val d’Ega, public transport is free to use.

Buses can get very crowded during peak times in high season, so we recommend setting off as early as you can.

When to visit Lago di Carezza

When to visit Lago di Carezza depends on what kind of experience you’re after and how many people you’re happy to share it with.

Below, we explain the differences between the seasons and times of day.

Seasons

Spring (April to June)

Spring is a great time to visit Lago di Carezza.

As the snow melts, the water level rises and the lake’s reflection of the surrounding mountains and trees becomes especially clear in the green-blue water. Early April may still see some ice, though.

Wildflowers begin to bloom, and the area feels quieter without the summer crowds.

We stopped by one late afternoon in mid-June and, despite there being quite a few visitors, found parking without any trouble.

Temperatures are usually mild, making it perfect for a short walk around the lake. It’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand.

Summer (July to September)

In summer, Lago di Carezza is one of the most popular spots in the Dolomites.

The lake is often at its most spectacular when the water level is high and the clear water perfectly reflects the dramatic mountains and forests – especially on windless days.

The weather is usually warm and sunny.

At the same time, it’s the busiest time of year.

July and August bring many visitors, particularly around midday and at weekends.

The view remains stunning, but expect crowds and limited parking.

For a quieter experience, we recommend visiting early in the morning (ideally at sunrise) or later in the afternoon when most people have left.

Autumn (October and November)

Autumn at Lago di Carezza is much quieter than the busy summer months, as visitor numbers drop quite a bit.

The landscape transforms into lovely golden tones, reflected beautifully in the lake’s clear water, creating a truly atmospheric scene.

Temperatures can still be warm, making a short walk around the lake in the fresh air a real pleasure.

By November, though, snow may start to fall – especially up in the mountains.

Winter (December to March)

Winter at Lago di Carezza offers a completely different experience with the snow-covered Latemar mountains.

The lake is often frozen, creating a quiet, almost fairytale atmosphere, though the reflections in the water are usually absent.

It can be quite chilly, but there are far fewer visitors, so you can enjoy the area in peace.

The path around the lake can be slippery, so it’s wise to check local conditions before setting off.

Snow usually begins to fall around November and can last well into April.

Time of day

Regardless of the season, early morning or late afternoon is best if you want to avoid the biggest crowds and catch the best light for photos.

It’s also easier to find parking at these times.

Bear in mind that the sun sets earlier at Lago di Carezza than “official” times suggest, as the mountains block the sunlight.

How long to spend at Lago di Carezza

How long you spend at Lago di Carezza really depends on what you want to do.

If you just want to take in the view and snap a few photos, 30 minutes is plenty.

Plan for 1 to 2 hours if you’d like to walk all the way around the lake, visit the visitor centre and maybe grab a bite at one of the bistros.

Where to stay near Lago di Carezza

Lago di Carezza is situated in the western Dolomites, a bit off the beaten track compared to many other popular spots in the area.

For that reason, it rarely makes sense to stay overnight right by the lake – unless you’re passing through or travelling with a motorhome or caravan.

We believe you’ll get more out of staying in one of the towns or valleys nearby, which offer better facilities and easy access to other hiking trails and attractions.

Places like Ortisei, Canazei, Bressanone and Bolzano are all great options.

Below, we’ve listed a few nearby towns worth considering for your stay.

You can also search for the best hotels near Lago di Carezza here (adlink) or read our comprehensive guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.

Nova Levante (Welschnofen)

If you want to stay near Lago di Carezza, Nova Levante (Welschnofen) is the closest town. It’s just a 10-minute drive away.

It’s a quiet place with only a handful of hotels and restaurants, but a practical choice if you’re planning to visit the lake early in the morning or later in the day, when it’s less crowded.

There are other hiking trails nearby too, and from the town, you can take a cable car up into the mountains for stunning views.

Search for hotels in Nova Levante (Welschnofen) (adlink).

Vigo di Fassa (Wiegen im Fasstal)

East of Lago di Carezza, about a 25-minute drive across the mountain pass, you’ll find Vigo di Fassa (Wiegen im Fasstal) in the Val di Fassa valley.

Here, there’s a wider choice of hotels, restaurants and shops, while still being close to the stunning nature of the Dolomites.

Vigo di Fassa is a popular base for hiking and offers easy access to several cable cars that take you up to spectacular views.

Search for hotels in Vigo di Fassa (Wiegen im Fasstal) (adlink).

Canazei

If you continue east (and slightly north) past Vigo di Fassa, you’ll arrive in Canazei.

It’s one of the most popular towns in the Val di Fassa valley, with plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and a wide range of accommodation.

Although it’s about a 35-minute drive to Lago di Carezza, you’ll be closer to several other hiking trails, cable cars and ski areas – including the Marmolada Mountain and the many experiences in the surrounding area.

Search for hotels in Canazei (adlink).

Bolzano (Bozen)

Bolzano is one of the largest cities in South Tyrol and a great base for exploring the western Dolomites.

It’s located about a 30-minute drive northwest of Lago di Carezza and is the biggest town near the lake.

You’ll find everything you need here, and if you’re travelling by public transport, there’s a direct bus to the lake from Bolzano (bus 180).

Search for hotels in Bolzano (Bozen) (adlink).

Castelrotto (Kastelruth) or Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern)

Castelrotto (Kastelruth) and Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern) are about a 50-minute drive from Lago di Carezza and are good options if you’d like to combine your visit with other nature experiences.

Both towns work well as bases for exploring the region, with Seis am Schlern being especially convenient if you’re planning to take the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm.

Search for hotels in Castelrotto (Kastelruth) or Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern) (adlinks).

Val Gardena (Gröden)

The towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena are located in the beautiful Val Gardena (Gröden) valley north of the lake.

From here, it takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive to Lago di Carezza.

At the same time, you’ll have great access to other highlights in the Dolomites – including Seceda and Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm.

Search for hotels in Ortisei, Santa Cristina or Selva di Val Gardena (adlinks).

Bressanone (Brixen)

Bressanone (Brixen) is a historic city with a charming old town centre.

It’s one of the oldest towns in South Tyrol and makes a great base for various hiking routes.

The drive to Lago di Carezza takes about an hour, but in return, you’ll have easy access to both nature and culture in the Dolomites – for example, the Church of San Giovanni (St. John) in Val Di Funes and Seceda.

Search for hotels in Bressanone (Brixen).

Our best tips for Lago di Carezza

• Manage your expectations. Lago di Carezza attracts a lot of visitors, so you’ll be sharing the experience with plenty of other tourists.
• Think about the season you visit the lake – water levels and how calm the surface is can vary quite a bit.
• Arrive early or late in the day for a quieter experience away from the crowds. Preferably before sunrise or late afternoon before sunset.
• The sun rises late and sets early. Because of the surrounding mountains, daylight hours feel shorter than the official times.
• Bring a good camera. Lago di Carezza is beautiful! Here is a guide to the gear we use.
• Be prepared for changing weather. Conditions can shift quickly in the mountains. Always plan accordingly and check the weather forecast in advance. The lake looks its best when the wind is still, allowing the mountains to be perfectly reflected on the surface.
• Bring several layers of clothing if you expect to spend a long time at Lago di Carezza.
• Carry a water bottle – there’s a drinking fountain at the visitor centre with fresh mountain water.
• Use sunscreen and other sun protection if you visit during summer.
• Save money on parking by using lot P2 and enjoying a pleasant walk along path no. 6 through the forest, over a suspension bridge and down to the lake.

Sustainable travel tips

To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle. You can always refill it at the visitor centre.
• Avoid disposable plastics.
• Dispose of waste properly and don’t leave anything behind.
• Take only photos and leave only footprints. Avoid picking flowers or taking anything from nature with you.
• Stick to the marked paths and don’t jump over the fence to take pictures.
• Show consideration towards other visitors.
• Respect the local wildlife.
• Don’t swim in Lago di Carezza.
• Leave the drone at home. Flying is not permitted.

Thank you for reading along

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Lago di Carezza. We hope you found it helpful!

What do you think of this popular alpine lake in the Dolomites? Is it worth a visit?

If you’ve already been to Lago di Carezza, we’d love to hear your best tips and recommendations in the comments.

And if you haven’t been yet, don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re happy to help!