Just over 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of Venice, Lake Misurina is a popular day trip from Venice and a highlight of tours of the Dolomite mountains. Set 5,700 feet (1,737 meters) above sea level, the waters of the lake reflect the slopes of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the Cadini, Sorapiss, and Cristallo peaks in the heart of the Dolomites.
A 1.6-mile (1-kilometer) path runs around the lake, perfect for a relaxing walk past picturesque lakeside hotels. Together with Lake Santa Caterina and the pretty mountain town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, Lake Misurina is a top attraction in this corner of the Dolomites and the perfect spot for a scenic getaway from the canal city of Venice.
Touring Lake Misurina requires a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
The path around the lake is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Photography buffs will want to capture the breathtaking alpine views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
There are a number of hotels with restaurants and cafés lining the lake.
Lake Misurina is accessible via public transit from Venice, but the easiest (and fastest) way to get there is by renting a car or booking a private tour that includes transportation and a stop in the ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Because of its elevation, Lake Misurina can be tricky to access during the winter months, when mountain passes are often closed due to heavy snowfall. Visit from spring through fall to enjoy the lush Dolomite scenery and mild microclimate of the lake.
Surprisingly, this little-known lake high in the Dolomites contributed to Olympic history. During the 1956 winter games, hosted by Cortina d'Ampezzo, Lake Misurina was the site of the last Olympic speed skating events held on natural ice.
