As it ranges from the jagged Alps in the north to the sun-blazed beaches of Sicily in the south, Italy offers up a truffle forest’s worth of amazing hikes. There’s the
the Five Villages Trail alongside the breathtaking coastline of Cinque Terre
, the legendary
The Alta Via 1 trail passing through the center of the Dolomites
, with many others waiting as well. Just beyond the glamorous resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo lies another top-notch hiking route that takes you from the verdant meadows at lower elevations up to a shimmering alpine lake nestled among the mountains. This is the renowned Lago di Sorapis trail.
This 8.2-mile up and down is ranked as the very best trail in the Cortina d’Ampezzo area according to
AllTrails
It starts at the Passo Tre Croci slightly to the east of town, then curves generally southward amidst the towering silhouette of Punta Sorapis, an imposing peak rising more than 10,500 feet high in the eastern-central part of Italy’s Alpine region. As you progress, breathtaking views of forested ravines will accompany your journey until you reach a vividly turquoise lake renowned for being among the most stunning sights within all the Dolomites.
Drawn in? Absolutely! The simplest method to incorporate this fantastic trek into your travel plans for this year is by flying into Venice’s Treviso Airport. Next, embark on a two-hour journey to Cortina d’Ampezzo; then, once you’re set to begin your expedition, make the additional 15-minute trip to the trailhead situated at the pass. Parking spots are available for free near pull-outs alongside the route heading towards the starting point of the trail, yet securing one can be challenging during high season due to frequent occupancy.
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A Comprehensive Guide to Hiking to Lago di Sorapis
The route begins by passing through a lush meadow and then creeps gradually upwards through thick forests of spear-like pines. You’ll start to see the outline of the craggy Veneto Dolomites through the woods now and then at this point.
The central part of the trail is the toughest one. As you progress here, the route becomes narrower, clinging closely to the sheer cliff face of Cime del Laudo. You will encounter portions along slender ledges where metal cables anchored into the stone provide necessary stability, alongside several hanging ladders precariously affixed to the steep drops. Approximately at the 4.5-mile point, there’s an option to divert towards Rifugio Vandelli. However, hold off on settling down for your meal since the lake still lies ahead…
Look beyond the hill, and you’ll see Lago di Sorapis right there.
TripAdvisor
reviewer calls it a “must-go place in Cortina. The Tiffany blue lake is so beautiful!” True enough, the lake is famed for its gleaming teal-turquoise hue, which is caused by an inflow of gravel and dust from the surrounding mountains. While away some time here in awe of the views, or take the path that loops the lake to get a variety of gorgeous perspectives over the water.
Stunning Vistas of the Dolomites Are Plentiful
Get ready to marvel at the vistas from the trail leading to Lago di Sorapis. At journey’s end, you’ll encounter a shimmering lake characterized by its unusual milky hue. Along the way, you’ll traverse one of the most breathtaking valleys in the Veneto mountain range. To your north lies Lago di Misurina, a dark expanse of water nestled below the sharp summit of Monte Cristallo. If you turn westward, you can’t miss the majestic Punta Sorapis horseshoe-shaped bowl dominating the skyline.
The standout vista undoubtedly comes from Rifugio Vandelli when viewed head-on. This delightful mountain refuge – operational between June and September – entices guests with traditional regional dishes just next to the lake. Take your place at one of the seats on the stony terrace outside and savor the sweeping views, including a distant sight of the immensely popular Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Should you wish to venture deeper into the wilderness upon reaching the lake, additional surreal vistas await. Instead of retracing your steps, take trail 216 which leads higher than the treeline. This demanding path is reserved for seasoned hikers exclusively, yet it offers breathtaking glimpses of the surrounding mountain passes.
premium mountain retreat in Cortina d’Ampezzo
.
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Read the
original article on Islands
.
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