How to get there, what to see and why not to miss it during your stay in Canazei

Lake Fedaia is located at 2057 meters above sea level, set on top of Passo Fedaia like a blue gem in the heart of the Dolomites. It is an artificial reservoir created in 1956, but nature has managed to integrate it so perfectly into the landscape that today it seems to have always existed. The crystal-clear waters originate from the melting glaciers of the Marmolada, the Queen of the Dolomites, which is reflected in the surface of the lake, creating reflections that change color throughout the day.

From our Hotel Cristallo the lake is only 12 kilometers away, a twenty-minute drive through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Fassa Valley. The road climbs gradually through scenic switchbacks that reveal ever-changing glimpses of the surrounding mountains. It is a journey that is already part of the experience, a gradual preparation for encountering one of the most photographed places in the Dolomites.

The lake's location is also ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Numerous trails start directly from its shores, but even a simple walk along the shore is enough to enjoy the beauty of the landscape: clear air, silence and unspoiled nature.

How to reach Lake Fedaia from Canazei

Starting from Cristallo, the route follows Fedaia Pass State Road 641, one of the most scenic roads in the Dolomites. It starts in Canazei by crossing Penia, then the road begins to climb with wide curves that allow you to enjoy the view without stress.

During the ascent there are several points where it is worth stopping. At the seventh kilometer there is a natural lookout with views of the entire Fassa Valley. At the tenth kilometer you pass the Castiglioni-Marmolada hut, already over 2,000 meters above sea level. The last kilometers run flat, skirting alpine pastures where cows and sheep often graze.

For those who prefer to leave their cars at the hotel, there is a bus service during the summer from Canazei to Passo Fedaia every two hours. The trip takes 35 minutes.

Walk along Lake Fedaia

One of the most enjoyable and accessible activities is the walk along the left shore of Lake Fedaia. The route runs for about 2.5 km following the old state road, now closed to traffic, and can be covered in less than an hour at a leisurely pace. It is almost completely flat and suitable for everyone, including families with children or less trained people.

The route offers spectacular views of the Marmolada glacier, reflections on the lake, and views of surrounding peaks such as Gran Vernel and the Padon group. Along the way there are several areas to stop, take photos or simply sit and observe the landscape in silence.

Finally, at sunset, the lake offers a unique natural spectacle: the alpenglow colors the dolomite walls red and gold, transforming the walk into an even more impressive experience.

Fedaia Pass - Padon Refuge - Porta Vescovo loop tour

For those seeking a more complete and dynamic experience, the loop tour starting at Fedaia Pass is a varied itinerary that offers striking views of the Dolomites and Lake Fedaia. The route begins a short walk from the lake, climbing a ski slope to the Padon Refuge. The elevation gain is about 400 meters and is covered in just over an hour. The ascent allows you to quickly gain altitude and enjoy sweeping views of the Marmolada and surrounding area.

From Rifugio Padon, continue along CAI path 680, which climbs at altitude following the mountain profile. The view opens up to the Marmolada and the lake below, and it is not uncommon to spot marmots or grazing animals. After about an hour's walk, you arrive at Porta Vescovo, which can also be reached via the Ferrata delle Trincee (CAI 636), a route reserved for experienced hikers, which crosses trenches and emplacements from World War I.

The descent to the Fedaia Lake dam completes the loop. This section takes place on a paved road closed to traffic, which runs along the lake and allows the hike to end in a peaceful environment, with the ever-present view of the water and the Dolomite peaks.

The best treks around Lake Fedaia

Lake Fedaia is a strategic starting point for numerous hikes of varying difficulty, ideal for discovering the alpine environment of the Dolomites in all its richness.

Among the best-known routes is the Marmolada Trail, which allows you to explore the northern slope of the “Queen of the Dolomites.” This route, suitable for experienced and well-equipped hikers, traverses high-altitude landscapes, glacial moraines, and historical sections related to World War I. It offers spectacular glacier views and the chance to approach the slopes of the highest peak in the Dolomites (Punta Penia, 3,343 m).

Another popular option is the Viel del Pan, a scenic trail that connects Passo Pordoi to Rifugio Fedaia, running halfway up the slopes of Sass Becé. The trail, of medium difficulty, is also suitable for inexperienced hikers and offers one of the most iconic views of the Marmolada and the valley below. The route can be hiked in about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on pace and stops.

For those who prefer a more relaxed hike, the Ombretta Valley is an attractive and peaceful destination. Accessed from Malga Ciapela, it takes just over an hour to reach Malga Ombretta, surrounded by pastures and vertical walls. From here it is possible to continue to Rifugio Falier, at the foot of the south face of Marmolada, or simply enjoy the quiet environment rich in biodiversity, ideal for a day outdoors in direct contact with alpine nature.

Whether you want to experience a relaxing walk or a more challenging hike, Lake Fedaia is a must-see for anyone visiting the Dolomites. Here, unspoiled nature and vertiginous views combine in a unique sensory experience capable of regenerating body and mind.

Hotel Cristallo in Canazei is the ideal base for discovering this natural wonder: conveniently located in the heart of the Fassa Valley, it offers a perfect starting point for exploring Lake Fedaia and all the other pearls the Dolomite territory has to offer.