Lago di Carezza has a reputation for being the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites, and in good light it earns it. It sits at about fifteen hundred metres in a forest of spruce below the jagged crest of the Latemar and the great towers of the Rosengarten, and its water is a deep, shifting emerald that changes from green to blue to turquoise depending on the sky and the angle of the sun. The German name is Karersee, and the Ladin name is Lec de Ciareja. Local people call it the rainbow lake, and there is a legend to match.
The story goes that a water nymph lived in the lake and a sorcerer fell in love with her, and that in trying to win her he disguised himself as a merchant. The nymph's friends saw through him, and in his rage he tore a rainbow from the sky and threw it into the lake, where its colours broke into pieces and gave the water its shades. It is a charming tale and it fits the view. The lake has no visible inflow or outflow, which only adds to the mystery, and its level changes with the seasons.
The ride up from Bolzano to Carezza follows the Val d'Ega, or Eggental, through a narrow gorge and then a green valley with orchards, farms and woods. The road is well surfaced, with moderate bends and gentle gradients, and the views of the Latemar grow steadily. It is part of the Great Dolomites Road, which links Bolzano with Cortina. The area is busy in summer, and the car park at the lake fills with coaches and cars, so early morning and late afternoon are better. A path leads from the road to a boardwalk and viewing platforms around the water, and a short walk gives different views of the mountain reflection.
Please stay on the paths. The lake is fragile and swimming and wading are not allowed. A nearby hotel and a cafe provide coffee and food, and the village of Nova Levante, about three and a half kilometres away, has more choice, including fuel, shops and restaurants. Bolzano, further down the valley, is the larger city.
The best time to see the colour is on a clear, calm morning, before the wind ruffles the surface, and in autumn the larches around the lake turn gold, which makes a lovely frame.