Lake Anterselva

A legendary mountain lake situated in the homonymous valley.

The Lago di Anterselva is situated in Valle Anterselva, which diverts from the Val Pusteria near Valdaora. This lake, which is the third lake in South Tyrol regarding dimensions, is surrounded by great mountain scenery as well as the glaciers of the nature park Vedrette di Ries-Aurnia, perfect for extended hikes.

Those who prefer pleasant walks will enjoy a path leading round the lake, which in 2003 has been transformed into a nature trail. Along this trail you might get to know several curiosities about the lake as well as nature in general. You might for instance come across the myth of the origin of Lake Anterselva:
Once upon a time there were three prosperous farms in this area. When one day a beggar came to ask for charity and the farmers refused, the beggar foretold that there would come up three fountains, destroying the farms. The farmers laughted at him, but some days later this prediction came true… and this was the rise of Lago di Anterselva…

However, walking round the lake is great fun, as numerous games are waiting both for adults and children. Moreover you will come across information panels which affirm that also in this area there are flesh-eating plants… :-)

Not far from the lakeshore, there is also the biathlon centre, venue for world championships as well as numerous international competitions, as well as a cross-country ski centre. When the lake is frozen in winter you can enjoy ice skating surrounded by a fairytale-like winter landscape. In summer, however, the lake is a perfect setting for mountain bike tours, for example the popular “Klammlrunde”.

Altitude: 1,642 m asl
Surface: 44 hectares
Maximum depth: 38 m
Average depth: 25,5 m
Shoreline: 2.7 km
Category: Mountain lake