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Lago di Limides Hike

By François · updated in November 202511/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Very easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
1h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
2.4km
out and back
Elevation gain
150m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
2,184 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
Moderate
Start point
46.51959, 12.01933
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

Lago di Limides is a small mountain lake located on a bench between Col Gallina and Forcella Averau in the Ampezzo Dolomites. On calm days, the lake's waters reflect the Tofana di Rozes to the north and the Monte Averau to the south, making it one of the region's most remarkable natural mirrors. The round-trip hike is short and accessible to all. It is particularly well-suited for a late afternoon visit in raking light. Note: The lake depends entirely on precipitation and snowmelt, so it may be dry by late summer.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Lago di Limides Hike

Description and difficulties of the hike

From the Col Gallina parking lot, trail no. 419 and then no. 441 lead south toward the lake and the Rifugio Averau. The path gradually climbs through a sparse forest of pines and larches, reaching the lake in about thirty minutes. Feel free to walk around the lake to enjoy the various viewpoints, and then return via the same route. Regular red-and-white waymarking, unambiguous navigation.

What you'll love

  • The reflections of the Tofana di Rozes and Monte Averau in the lake's waters.
  • The quick access to a typical Dolomite landscape, with no physical commitment required.
  • The significantly lower visitor numbers compared to the region's famous lakes (Braies, Sorapis).

Practical information

Parking

Large free lot at Col Gallina, below Passo Falzarego, about 16 km from Cortina d'Ampezzo. It fills up quickly during peak season. Plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Extension

Trail No. 441 continues well beyond the lake toward Forcella Averau, Monte Nuvolau, and the Cinque Torri. See the Lago Limides, Monte Nuvolau, and Cinque Torri Circuit page for the complete itinerary.

Lago di Limides – photo 1
Lago di Limides – photo 2
Lago di Limides – photo 3
Lago di Limides – photo 4
Lago di Limides – photo 5
Lago di Limides – photo 6
Lago di Limides – photo 7
Lago di Limides – photo 8

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/hiking-dolomites/lago-di-limides-hike/