Discovering Lake Sorapis, a turquoise jewel among the peaks of the Dolomites

If one day beauty really saves the world, the Sorapis lake would definitely have some credit. Located in the heart of Belluno Dolomitesis one of the most fascinating natural scenarios in the Italian territory, an alpine lake at an altitude of 1,925 meters, immersed in the Sorapiss mountain groupabout 12 km from Cortina d’Ampezzo. The characteristic turquoise color and the enchanting position, surrounded by imposing Dolomite peaks, have made it an increasingly popular destination for hikers, travelers and nature lovers over time.

The glacial origin and the turquoise color

Lake Sorapis is best known for its turquoise blue hue, a characteristic that makes it truly unique among alpine lakes. Such a particular color comes from presence of fine dustcall “glacial suspensions“, which are deposited on the lake bed during the melting of the glaciers: the presence of these microparticles of glacial origin, together with the rocky conformation of the area, reflect the light in order to create that intense turquoise colour.

The phenomenon is closely linked to climatic conditions: global warming and the progressive reduction of glaciers could, in the future, influence the vividness of the color of the lake. Currently, scientific studies conducted by the University of Trento are monitoring the evolution of this ecosystem to better understand the changes taking place.

The natural cycle of the lake

Being fed by glaciers, Lake Sorapis follows a natural cycle linked to the climate and the seasons. During the summer, thanks to the melting of the snow and surrounding glaciers, the water level reaches its maximum, for a spectacle of unparalleled natural beauty. Later, with the arrival of autumn and a progressive decrease in temperatures, the waters begin to retreat: the drying that is created is a completely natural and above all normal phenomenonwhich is repeated every year, signaling the natural course of the seasons. Despite the decrease in the water level, even during the winter the lake retains its magic intact, ensured by the typical ice and snow cover.

The ecosystem of Lake Sorapis

The natural environment of the lake is extremely delicate. Precisely to preserve its ecosystem, in 2019 the municipality of Cortina d’Ampezzo issued an ordinance prohibiting bathing in the lakea ban that serves to protect the environment, and which also aims to guarantee the safety of visitors, given that the bottom of the lake is difficult to see and there are no rescue facilities in case of emergency.

The lake is part of a natural park and, as such, is subject to rigorous environmental protection regulations. Also camping near the lake is prohibitedand hikers are asked to respect some basic rules, such as .

What is the best time to visit Lake Sorapis?

The lake it is accessible mainly during the summerbetween spring and autumn. Summer is undoubtedly the busiest period, so it is advisable to leave early in the morning to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility of the place. In autumn, when the tourist flow decreases, the lake offers an equally evocative spectacle, with the colors of nature transformed into a palette of warm shades.

Winter is obviously a period strongly discouraged for hiking, due to the risk of slipping along icy paths.

Some curiosities

sorapis lake 3

How to reach Lake Sorapis

Lake Sorapis is an easily accessible destination, the most convenient starting point for the excursion is Three Crosses Passlocated between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Misurina. From here, take the CAI path number 215, which in about two hours of walking leads to Rifugio Vandelli, located a few steps from the lake. The route, although accessible to many hikers, requires a little attention in some exposed points, where there are ladders and fixed ropes to facilitate the passage.

Those who prefer to avoid the most challenging stretch can choose a alternative pathslightly longer but less exposed, which allows you to reach the lake without technical difficulties. Regardless of which path you choose, it matters be adequately equipped to tackle the trekespecially in case of bad weather or variable conditions at high altitude.

sorapis lake 4

Don’t want to miss our news?