When people think about the Dolomites, they often imagine dramatic peaks, alpine huts, and crystal-clear mountain lakes. What surprises many visitors is this: despite the hundreds probably thousands of lakes scattered across Trentino, South Tyrol, Veneto, and Friuli Venezia Giulia, only a small number are actually suitable for swimming.
There are a few reasons for this. Many alpine lakes sit at high altitude and are fed directly by snowmelt or underground springs, making the water freezing cold even in the middle of summer. Others are protected natural environments where swimming is restricted in order to preserve delicate ecosystems, or ensure visitor safety, in some other cases there are small artificial lakes that might be entirely dedicated to fishing activities (like one of my favourites where I meet my clients for photo sessions).
A good example is Lake Braies. Until a few years ago, swimming there was still allowed. Today, bathing is prohibited to protect the lake’s environment and reduce risks in an area that receives massive numbers of visitors every day, without lifeguard services along the shore.
Still, there are a few incredible lakes where swimming is not only allowed, but genuinely unforgettable. Here are five of the most beautiful lakes for a swim in the Dolomites.
Note that all the “Tips by a local” are found in WilDolomites with all the details, Google Maps position to plan ahead or guide you to every spot and maps/hikes in the surroundings.
1. Lake Tovel (Lago di Tovel)
Located in Val di Non, inside the Adamello Brenta Natural Park, Lake Tovel is one of the most spectacular alpine lakes in Italy. The water has an unreal clarity, surrounded by dense forests and steep mountain walls.
Swimming here feels wild and authentic. The water remains cold even during summer, but on hot days many people still jump in for a refreshing swim.
The lake is famous for its history: decades ago, the water occasionally turned red because of a natural algae phenomenon, earning it the nickname “the red lake” even thought now its waters are emerald-blue year round. This lake is only accessible from some time in May until October, usually.
Tips by a local
- Best reached by car or shuttle bus during summer
- A panoramic trail circles the entire lake
- Restaurants, parking areas, and mountain huts are available nearby
- Arrive early in July and August to avoid crowds
2. Laghi di Lamar
Just a short drive from Trento, the Laghi di Lamar are among the warmest and most pleasant lakes for swimming in the region. Even though there are two lakes: Lago Santo and Lago di Lamar . They are usually considered together as one destination.
Unlike many alpine lakes, the water here becomes surprisingly comfortable in summer. The atmosphere is relaxed, with grassy shores, forest trails, and easy access.
This is one of the best spots if you want a full lake day: swimming, sunbathing, picnics, and short walks all in the same place.
Tips by a local
- Easy access by car from Trento
- Small beaches and grassy areas around the lakes
- Popular with locals during weekends
- Great option for families
3. Lake Molveno (Lago di Molveno)
Lake Molveno is probably one of the most complete swimming lake experience in the Dolomites. Backed by the Brenta Dolomites, it combines incredible scenery with excellent tourist services.
The lake has large beaches, swimming areas, kayak rentals, pedal boats, cafés, and walking paths. The water is clean and relatively mild compared to many higher alpine lakes.
If you are traveling with children or simply want comfort without giving up the mountain atmosphere, this is one of the best choices.
Tips by a local
- Easily accessible from the town of Molveno
- Large paid and free beach areas
- Ideal for combining swimming with hiking or biking
- Very busy in peak summer season
4. Völser Weiher / Laghetti di Fiè
Hidden below the Sciliar massif in South Tyrol, the Laghetti di Fiè or Völser Weiher is one of the most photogenic swimming lakes in the Dolomites, the waters itself aren’t emraldesque like many other alpine lakes, still swimming with such a view is quite an unforgettable experience.
Small, peaceful, and surrounded by forest, it has a very different atmosphere compared to larger lakes like Molveno. In summer, the water warms up enough for comfortable swimming, while the mountain backdrop makes it feel almost cinematic.
The lake also has wooden platforms, sunbathing lawns, and a relaxed alpine vibe.
Tips by a local
- Reachable by car or with a short walk from nearby parking areas
- Beautiful at sunrise and sunset
- Restaurants and mountain huts nearby
- Perfect stop after exploring the Alpe di Siusi area
5. Lake Barcis (Lago di Barcis)
Located in the Friulian Dolomites, Lake Barcis is one of the most underrated alpine lakes in northern Italy. Its emerald-green water, surrounded by forests and dramatic mountains, gives the entire area an almost surreal atmosphere.
Unlike many higher alpine lakes, Barcis feels pretty accessible and livable, with walking paths, small beaches, water activities, and places to relax around the shoreline. Even though the lake is artificial, the landscape feels completely natural and wild.
It’s also one of the best places to experience a quieter side of the Dolomites, far from the crowds of more famous destinations.
Tips by a local
- Best reached by car from Pordenone or Longarone
- Perfect for kayaking, SUP, and relaxing by the water
- Combine the visit with the Cellina Gorge and the nearby Friulian Dolomites
- Ideal during weekdays if you prefer a quieter atmosphere
My conclusions for unforgettable swims in the Dolomites
If you feared swimming was impossible in the Dolomites, you have probably changed heart by now…and these are of course not all the lakes out there, just a personal list of favourites and most memorable ones :)
What is better than an evening at the lake to let me take some picture for you to truly remember those precious days in the Dolomites?
This above is “my” lake, a couple of years back, I think it was June, like this year it had rained A LOT during the previous weeks, making the water level particularly high. I probably need to write and show more about this (not so little) lake in my backyard. I will, I promise, I also have a lot in mind around it in the future…