A red lake in the heart of the Dolomites
At an altitude of 1,178 metres, Lago di Tovel is one of the largest alpine lakes in the Trentino region. Its water is clear and reflects the surrounding limestone peaks of the Dolomites, giving it a fairy-tale appearance. Yet its greatest fame is due to an unusual phenomenon that occurred here until the 1960s - the water turned red during the summer months.
This phenomenon was so pronounced that the lake earned the nickname 'Lago Rosso' (Red Lake). For a long time, locals and scientists alike have been trying to get to the bottom of why this strange colouration occurs.
How and why did the lake change colour?
The colouration of the lake was caused by algae that produced a red pigment. As the temperatures rose and the water level dropped, the algae began to multiply and form a red film on the surface. Organic material and nitrogen from cattle grazing in the area encouraged the growth of this algae. And the high summer temperatures also suited them - the warmer it was, the more the algae multiplied. Less water, in turn, meant a higher concentration of algae and a more intense red colour.
So it wasn't pollution or a chemical reaction, but a completely natural biological process.
In the 1960s, the red colouration gradually began to fade until it finally disappeared completely. The reasons for this are not entirely clear, but experts agree that the main factor was the end of traditional cattle grazing around the lake.
Once the nutrients entering the water from livestock excrement ran out, the algae lost their main source of food and their population declined dramatically. In addition, climate change and water clarity may have played a role, which has been further improved by regulating tourism and protecting the park.
Today, Lago di Tovel has a classic alpine blue-green colour that changes according to the seasons and the weather. It will delight you in the same way as, for example, Lago di Braies.
What can you see and experience at Lago di Tovel?
We definitely recommend a trek around the lake - the circular route around Lago di Tovel (approx. 4 km) offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You can also observe the wildlife. The area is home to chamois, marmots and even the rare brown bear.
If you fancy a more challenging trek, you can climb from the lake to one of the peaks of the Brenta massif - Monte Peller.
To learn more about the lake, we recommend a visit to the Casa del Parco Lago Rosso, a small museum dedicated to the history of the lake and its former red colour.
The surrounding area is also ideal for mountain biking.
When and why visit Lago di Tovel?
The lake is accessible from spring to autumn. It is at its most beautiful in spring, when the water is at its clearest and the surrounding forests are bursting with fresh colours, and in autumn, when the landscape turns fiery tones. In summer, the area can be busier, but still offers many quiet places to relax.
Today, Lago di Tovel may no longer be red, but it is still one of the most magical lakes in Italy. Whether you come here for hiking, nature or history, you won't regret it.
