Middle lake: the “younger brother” of Lake Carezza that you can see only a few months a year

lago di mezzo
Hidden in the woods of the Val d’Egaa stone’s throw from the famous Carezza lakethere is a small jewel that appears only for a short period, as a secret whispered by nature: the Middle lakeor Mittersee in German. This ephemeral water mirror, which is formed in spring with the dissolution of the snow and disappears by the summer, is an unmissable destination for those looking for an authentic experience in Dolomitesaway from the mass tourism circuits. Reachable with an easy excursion on foot, also from Path of the king Laurinothe Middle Lake is an invitation to slow down and discover the magic of a place that exists only for a few months a year.

A lake that lives with the seasons

The Middle Lake, located at about 1,600 meters above sea level in the municipality of Nova Levante, It is a seasonal lake that is formed in a grassy clearing at the foot of the Latemar massif, thanks to the water of the surrounding peaks. Unlike his “older brother”, the caress lake, fueled by underground sources and present all year round, the middle lake is a transient phenomenon. From May to June, when the snow melts, the clearing turns into a bright green mirror, a maximum of two meters deep, which reflects the dolomite peaks and fir woods. By July, however, the lake withdraws, giving way to a green lawn, as if it had never existed. This fleeting nature makes him even more fascinating: to visit him is like grasping an unrepeatable moment, a gift from nature that requires being in the right place at the right time.

How to reach the Middle Lake: an excursion for everyone

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Reaching Lake Middle is simple and does not require particular hiking skills, making it one Ideal destination also for families Or who is looking for a relaxing walk. From Nova Ponente you can take line 180 or 184 to the Paolina car park, near the Costalunga pass. From here, take the path of King Laurino (path n. 12), which crosses the village of Carezza and the Grand Hotel Carezza (1,609 m). The well-reported path winds through the Latemar forest, between fir trees and views on the catinaccio, until it reaches the clearing of Lake Mezzo in about 30-40 minutes of peaceful walk.
For those who want to extend the experience, the excursion can continue towards Lake Carezza along the same path n. 12, and then complete a ring route that brings back to Paolina parking through path n. 6, passing through the suggestive suspended bridge. The journey, about 5-6 total kilometers, is accessible and gives breathtaking panoramas, with the catinaccio and the latemar that frame the horizon. Thanks to the bus network of the Val d’Ega, the excursion is perfect for those traveling without a car: the public lines connect Bolzano, Nova Levante, Obereggen and the Val di Fassa, with strategic stops such as the one at the Paolina parking lot.

An experience to live with awareness

Getting to Lake Mezzo is like discovering a hidden corner of paradise. Unlike Lake Carezza, often crowded, here reigns an almost surreal quiet, broken only by the bird’s singing and the rustle of the wind. The clearing invites a break: there are those who stop for a picnic, those who take photos and those who, the most daring, dare a dip in the icy waters or a ride on an improvised raft. However, being a protected area, it is essential to respect the environment, avoiding leaving waste or damaging vegetation.

There legend of Lake Carezza, With the Ninfa Ondina and the rainbow of the Latemar sorcerer, it seems almost to extend to this smaller lake, which appears and disappears as if by magic. Its ephemeral nature recalls how fragile and precious the beauty of the Dolomites is, a heritage to be kept carefully. For this reason, the Val d’Ega promotes sustainable tourism, and Lake Mezzo is a perfect example of how you can enjoy nature without leaving a trace.

Why visit the Middle Lake?

Visiting Lake Mezzo means grasping the essence of a slow and conscious holiday in the Dolomites. Its temporary existence, linked to the rhythm of the seasons, makes it a unique destination, far from the loveurism which sometimes afflicts the nearby Lake Carezza. The path to reach it, immersed in the Latemar forest, offers a regenerating experience, enriched by the stories of King Laurino and the panorama of the Unesco heritage peaks. Bring with you comfortable shoes, a camera and the desire to let yourself be surprised: the Middle Lake is an invitation to discover the Ega Val d’Ega with a slow step, with the promise of a memory that shines like its waters, even when the lake returns to be only a lawn.

Practical tips: check bus timetables on www.altoadigemobilita.info to plan the excursion. The best time to see the middle lake is between May and June, when it is at the maximum of its extension. Bring a binoculars to observe the local fauna and a light jacket, because the altitude climate can be fresh even in spring

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Chris Rivers

Chris Rivers

With over 15 years of experience in journalism and a deep-seated passion for environmental sustainability, I lead the editorial team at Green Technology Investments. My background in environmental science fuels my commitment to crafting insightful and impactful content. When I'm not penning articles, you can find me exploring national parks or tending to my organic garden.