From Passo Tre Croci to Lake Sorapis (Dolomites)

Beautifully situated amidst the Dolomites in the province of Belluno, surrounded by rock faces, lies Lake Sorapis. The turquoise shimmering water of the lake is unmissable. A true dream destination for all hiking enthusiasts!

• Start: Passo Tre Croci
• Destination: Lake Sorapis
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Signpost: No. 215
• Trail length: 11 km
• Walking time: 2 hours (ascent), 2 hours (descent)
• Elevation gain: 300 meters
• Elevation at destination: 1,900 meters
• Refreshment stops: Vandelli Hut
• Visited: Early August 2018

Drive to the starting point

To reach Passo Tre Croci, we take the Brixen exit on the Brenner motorway. We continue on the SS 49 into the Puster Valley to Toblach and then via the SS 51/SS 48 over Misurina up to Passo Tre Croci. The road is easily passable for any car. Even now, you have a beautiful view of the surrounding Dolomites mountains.

Start of the tour

We start our tour to Lake Sorapis at Passo Tre Croci, where there are also plenty of parking spaces.

Good footwear is important for the hike.

We follow the signpost towards Vandelli Hut, which offers refreshment options and is managed from June to September.

Subsequently, hiking trail number 215, marked Lake Sorapis, branches off.

We continue up and down along a narrower path. The path leads us comfortably through a forest. The view of the mountains and the tranquility of nature are wonderful.

Along the way, we encounter some exposed sections, which are secured by iron steps and ropes, where you can hold on well. Be sure to take a look or two into the gorge and at the panorama around you (if you don't suffer from vertigo). A dream!

Once the Vandelli Hut is reached, Lake Sorapis is not far away.

Almost like a fairy tale, Lake Sorapis lies before us amidst green meadows and rocks that invite you to picnic.

Why is the lake so turquoise blue?

Due to its unique color, the lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites. The reason for the turquoise blue water is the high lime content!

We also recommend circumnavigating the lake (approx. 30 minutes walking time). On one side of the circular path, you can admire the entire lake from above (see photo).

 

Way back

After spending a few hours at the lake, we walk back the same way to our car.

Conclusion

Lake Sorapis is a MUST-SEE when visiting the Dolomites. You simply have to see the turquoise blue color to realize that it's not Photoshop! :-)

Of course, the lake is world-renowned, attracting tourists from all over.

The hiking tour is not suitable for families with strollers, as the path is often steep and partly with stairs.

Surefootedness is also important, as there are often exposed sections. Parents with small children should therefore be careful. We observed some parents carrying their children piggyback in unsafe places (is that safe...?).

All in all, the hiking tour is highly recommended and we will definitely be back soon! :-)

Best regards,