Deep in the forest, where pines whisper secrets and mountains cast their reflection, lies a lake of pure enchantment. Its waters shift from green to gold to blue — and local legend says a rainbow once melted into its depths. Welcome to Lago di Carezza.
📍 Where is Lago di Carezza?
Lago di Carezza (German: Karersee) is located in the province of Bolzano, in South Tyrol (Alto Adige), northern Italy.
It sits at 1,520 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Latemar mountain range, in the western Dolomites.
It’s just a 30-minute drive from Bolzano and easily accessible from Val d’Ega or the Carezza Pass (Passo di Costalunga).
💧 Why Is the Water So Green?
The color of Lago di Carezza comes from a mix of:
• Minerals in the mountain runoff
• Reflections of the dense evergreen forest
• The unique light conditions of the Latemar peaks
This creates that famous emerald-milky hue, which changes throughout the day — and in some moments, looks like liquid jade.
🧚 The Legend: A Rainbow, a Mermaid, and a Broken Heart
According to local folklore, a beautiful water nymph lived in the lake. A wizard fell in love with her and tried to capture her by throwing a rainbow from the Rosengarten to Latemar into the water to attract her.
When the nymph saw the trap, she vanished forever — and the shattered rainbow remained in the lake, giving it its surreal colors.
Locals still call it “The Lake of the Rainbow”.
📸 Why It’s So Photogenic
• Mirror reflections: Latemar’s jagged peaks are reflected perfectly in the still water
• Surrounding forest: adds depth, contrast, and color
• Seasonal light: snow in winter, gold in autumn, lush green in summer
• Easy to walk around: 800-meter circular trail
No hike needed — just awe.
🧭 Geography & Geology
• Origin: glacial-moraine lake, formed by melting alpine ice
• Max depth: ~22 meters
• Fed by underground springs, so there’s no visible inlet or outlet
• In winter, the lake almost disappears, covered by snow and ice
It’s a living lake — changing with the seasons.
🌲 Nature Around the Lake
• Alpine pines & spruces
• Marmots, foxes, deer in the surrounding woods
• Wildflowers in spring
• Birds of prey overhead
📅 Best Time to Visit
• Late May – June: full water level, emerald colors
• Autumn (Sept – Oct): golden forest reflections
• Winter: mystical, but the lake may be invisible under snow
• Best light: morning or late afternoon
🧘♂️ Why You Should Go
• One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Europe
• Easy access — no hiking required
• Perfect stop on a Dolomites road trip
• A place that feels calm, sacred, and alive
Whether the mountains are hidden or clear — this lake never disappoints.
💛 Discover Lago di Carezza with La Via Dolce
👉 Book now your private tour to Lago di Carezza. We will take care of the ride, and you enjoy the views.