This Beautiful Lake In The Dolomites Is An Alpine Piece Of Heaven
The Dolomites are one of the most iconic regions of Italy, featuring jagged peaks, brilliant glacial lakes, and welcoming mountain towns. This part of the Alps is notable to outdoor adventurers for its variety of trails that pass by a number of breathtaking natural landmarks. One such place is Lake Sorapis, a stunningly blue lake with a nearby sleeping hut (or "rifugio") that requires a hike to get to.
As a must-visit for anybody exploring northern Italy, we will give you the rundown on what Lake Sorapis is, how to get there, and what else to see and do while you're in that corner of the Dolomites.
The Geography of Lake Sorapis
Lake Sorapis, Lago di Sorapis, in Dolomites, popular travel destination in Italy. Blue green lake in Italian Dolomites.
As mentioned, Lake Sorapis is located in the Dolomite mountain range of northeastern Italy and is celebrated for its eye-popping turquoise waters and gorgeous alpine surroundings. The lake rests at an elevation of approximately 1,923 meters (6,309 feet) above sea level, nestled in a natural basin carved by glacial activity over millennia.
Its water is primarily fed by melting snow and glacial runoff from the surrounding peaks, which include the towering Croda del Sorapis at 3,205 meters (10,515 feet). The lake’s unique coloration, a milky aquamarine, is attributed to mineral particles from the glacial melt flowing into it, known as glacial flour. These minerals get added to the water when the sheer weight of the nearby glacier grinds boulders beneath it as it naturally moves back and forth, kind of like how corn kernels can be turned into flour in a mortar and pestle.
Lush alpine meadows and forests leading up to steep rocky walls surround the lake, creating a natural bowl as a backdrop. The woods around the lake are primarily made up of a mix of larch and fir forests, giving way to bare rock and scree closer to the peaks.
How to Get to Lake Sorapis
A landscape with a trekking tourist. Location: Europe, Italy, near Lake Sorapis.
Reaching Lake Sorapis involves a rewarding hike that starts near Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass situated between the towns of Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina. The most popular route to the lake is via Trail 215, a well-marked path that begins at a small parking area along the SR48 road, close to the pass.
The trail covers approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) one way, with an elevation gain of around 670 meters (2,198 feet). You should anticipate a moderate level of difficulty, as the terrain includes steep sections, rocky passages, and narrow ledges equipped with cables for added safety. Good hiking shoes, lots of water, and a reasonable level of fitness are essential.
The journey offers spectacular views of the Dolomite peaks and lush alpine landscapes all around, passing through forests and open ridges. Along the way, several vantage points are ideal for stopping for a scenic rest break.
The hike typically takes two to four hours to complete each way, depending on pace and trail conditions. An early start is recommended to avoid crowds and make the most out of your trip to Lake Sorapis.
Rifugio Vandelli
When you arrive at Lake Sorapis, you will notice the stone mountain hut near its shores. This is Rifugio Vandelli, an accommodation that you may have the chance to sleep at for the night, both giving you a way to fully immerse yourself into the landscape and see the clear night sky over the mountains and preventing you from having to complete the arduous journey back to the trailhead on the same day.
Originally built in 1821, the hut was later destroyed by an avalanche, and again by a fire. The building you will see today was completed in 1966. It features six bedrooms, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a basic kitchen, a simple bathroom, and even a shower (that you must pay extra for). Be sure to book in advance as the limited number of rooms tends to easily fill up in the busy summer season.
What Else Is There To Do Around Lake Sorapis?
Breathtaking nature of Italian Alps .Wonderful valley in Cortina d'Ampezzo - famous ski resort in northern Italy, Belluno province.
Either before or after your hike to Lake Sorapis, you've gotta check out some of the other things this wonderful region of northern Italy has to offer.
Stay at a Scenic Hotel Near the Trailhead
As mentioned before, it is highly recommended that you get an early start when hiking to Lake Sorapis. Cut out a long drive in the morning and opt to stay at one of the beautiful hotels just steps away from the trailhead.
Currently, the two options are the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina and the Una Perla a Cortina just across the street. Both have rooms with striking views of the surrounding mountains and feature restaurants where you can grab a bite at just about any time of day.
Explore a Nearby Resort Town
Cortina d’Ampezzo, located about 20 minutes by car from the trailhead to Lake Sorapis, is a picturesque town that exudes Dolomite's charm. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” it offers a fun mix of cultural, culinary, and recreational experiences.
Be sure to take a stroll along Corso Italia, the town’s main pedestrian street, where a variety of boutiques, cafés, and traditional restaurants serving Alpine and Italian cuisine can be found.
The Museo Etnografico Regole d’Ampezzo is a local museum that provides deeper insight into the region’s long-standing heritage as a popular resort town. Cortina is also a hub for year-round outdoor activities, including skiing in winter and cycling or even paragliding during warmer months.
Climbing and Via Ferrata
The steep peaks around Lake Sorapis, particularly the Croda del Sorapis, are a magnet for climbers and via ferrata enthusiasts from around the world. These routes, many of which equipped with cables, ladders, and metal footholds, allow adventurers to scale steep rock faces while enjoying what are pherhaps the views of the Dolomites.
Popular via ferrata options in the area range in difficulty, catering to both beginners and seasoned climbers. Proper gear and experience are essential or consider hiring a local guide for added safety.
Hike Another Scenic Trail
The Lake Sorapis area is a hiker’s dream, with trails that showcase the landscapes of the Dolomites at every corner. Beyond the popular Trail 215 to the lake, numerous routes go through the surrounding mountains, offering options for all levels.
Trail 216, for instance, connects to Rifugio Vandelli, the welcoming mountain hut where hikers can rest and enjoy refreshments. Advanced trekkers may explore multi-day routes that traverse alpine ridges, valleys, and other beautiful natural landmarks.
Make Lake Sorapis Your Next Adventure Destination
Still thinking about where to go on vacation next summer? You don't have to think about it too hard now that you know Lake Sorapis exists. It's hard to go wrong with Italy as a destination, and now besides its cultural and culinary draws, avid hikers can have one more thing to add to their itinerary!
Lace up your boots and grab your hiking poles, as this is one hike in the Alps you certainly do not want to miss.
