Lake Kaltern

© Alin Andersen, Unsplash

Suitability for swimming: high
Suitable for: warm bathers, water rats, splash addicts, sunbathers and families.

With a maximum depth of four meters, Lake Kaltern warms up quickly and reliably - not only in early summer, but also after rain showers. This way, the largest lake in South Tyrol brings it to another record: it's the warmest lake in the Alps. Highlight: in summer, the temperature of the crystal clear water regularly rises to a pleasant 28 degrees - almost like at home in the bathtub, but it's much nicer. Until October, the bathing pleasures last with consistently high water quality; the summer vibes are supported by boat rentals and beach bars and restaurants. And you can also enjoy yourself on dry land here - it's not for nothing that Kaltern is considered one of the most beautiful wine villages in Italy.

Braies Lake

© Mauritius Image

Recreation factor: high
Suitable for: cold water swimmers, rowers, romantics and nature lovers.

Even at the height of summer, the water of Braies Lake - one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the Dolomites - doesn't get warmer than a maximum of 20 degrees, and even then only on the hottest summer days. The reason: the lake, which is squeezed into a rocky basin, is up to 36 meters deep. Who wants to swim here, should think about neoprene! Highlight: for this, the lake shines in the most beautiful shades of blue, turquoise and green, and an imposing mountain backdrop is reflected in its waters. The Pragser Wildsee pleases the eyes, warms the heart and is the ideal place for a romantic rowing boat tour for two. Also, a walk along its shore means pure relaxation for the soul.

Karer Lake

© Antonio Ristallo, Unsplash

Romantic factor: high
Suitable for: fairy tale fans, wizards, wanderers and rainbow seekers.

Lake Karer is praised as the fairy-tale lake of the Dolomites, which shines emerald green under the peaks of the Latemar six kilometers from Nova Levante in the beautiful Val d'Ega. According to a legend, a magician once fell in love with a water mermaid here - to impress her, he stretched a rainbow of jewels from the Catinaccio to the Latemar. But because he let himself be seen, she was frightened and disappeared forever. Furious, he threw the jewels into the water; only their colors remained. Highlight: in 20 minutes you can walk around the lake - one of the many highlights of the Val d'Ega, which lies between the most famous Dolomite peaks and has stone pyramids, an observatory and two ski areas.

Best rafting route

Adventure in the cool water

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Glide down the Eisack River from Freienfeld near Sterzing in a rafting boat and experience the cool water: it's an exciting nature experience in South Tyrol! Whether for beginners or experienced rafters - the vigorous paddling keeps the muscles fit and provides the right adventure kick. All tours start in Freienfeld and lead downstream through the unique river loops of the Eisack. Whether as a group, a family or alone: rafting is a unique experience. Each target group can expect a tailor-made program with various levels of difficulty. The Tiger Rafting Team Sterzing organizes daily tours from May to October. All boat guides are highly trained and undergo regular training to meet the latest safety standards.

Web: raftingsterzing.it

Best diving site

Into the depths

© Getty Images

In the refreshing bathing lake and in the six-meter deep diving pool of the Quellenhof See Lodge near Merano you can try diving or make the diving license under guidance. Trial diving for adults and children is available for 70 €.

Web: quellenhof-seelodge.it