Best lakes around Sauris are situated in the Carnic Alps, a region characterized by its high-altitude landscapes and unique cultural heritage. The area is home to Lake Sauris, a significant artificial lake created by a 136-meter-high dam. This setting provides opportunities for various outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, amidst a backdrop of mountains and forests. Sauris is also known for its distinct German-speaking linguistic island and traditional architecture.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
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Fishing lake along trail 317. The lake managers also have a cabin with some comforts. We had a drink and a blueberry tart. The managers were very kind and helpful.
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Enchanting place after a breathtaking climb
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A wonderful place that invites you to linger. A very beautiful plateau, which is hardly to be expected given the altitude of 1800m. The water level in the ponds changes depending on the season. From the mountain/saddle ridge there are breathtaking views in all directions.
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The scattered community of Forni di Sopra is located in the southern Carnic Alps in the upper valley of the Tagliamento at 907 m asl. as the crow flies about 63 km northwest of Udine. The municipal area borders on the province of Belluno in the Veneto region. The Tagliamento rises at the Mauria Pass (1298 m) on the border with Veneto. The modern village consists of three fractions: Andrazza, Cella and Vico. Neighboring municipalities of Fornis are Cimolais, Claut, Domegge di Cadore, Forni di Sotto, Lorenzago di Cadore, Sauris, Vigo di Cadore. South of Forni di Sopra extend the Friuli Dolomites with the nature park of the same name, the Parco Naturale Dolomiti Friulane. (Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forni_di_Sopra) From here there is a multi-day hike through the Friuli Dolomites
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Nearby is the Casera Festons hut with great treats and beer from the Zahre Beer brewery
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Super nice park that invites you to linger. Several clear, green ponds complete the idyllic atmosphere.
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Small, quiet road (SP 73) from Ampezzo to Lago di Sauris. Many hairpin bends in the middle. Later, many tunnel sections follow in the upper area. Attention! Unlit and with cobblestone pavement. Very beautiful landscape. Finally, the beautifully situated Lago di Sauris. More information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sauris
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While Lake Sauris is the most prominent and well-known, offering breathtaking views and a range of activities, other popular spots include Lake Festons, a high-altitude plateau with stunning panoramic views, and Ziegelhütte Pond, a family-friendly fishing lake along trail 317.
Yes, the Sauris area offers several family-friendly options. Ziegelhütte Pond is noted as a family-friendly fishing lake with a cabin offering amenities. Additionally, Laghetti Pineta Forni di Sopra is a park with clear, green ponds that provides an idyllic atmosphere for lingering. Around Lake Sauris itself, you can find flat paths suitable for families, and activities like canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding.
The lakes around Sauris are excellent for various outdoor activities. At Lake Sauris, you can enjoy sport fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and windsurfing. The surrounding area also offers extensive hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy paths to challenging mountain routes. For an adrenaline rush, there's even a zip-line over Lake Sauris.
Absolutely. Lake Sauris is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, from flat paths suitable for leisurely strolls to more challenging routes climbing the high slopes of the Carnic Alps. You can find detailed hiking routes, including the 'Stavoli Raitern Heritage Trail' or the 'Lago di Sauris — ring tour in the Natural Park of the Friulian Dolomites', on the Hiking around Sauris guide.
The Sauris lakes are beautiful throughout the warmer months, generally from late spring to early autumn, when outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports are most enjoyable. The region's high altitude means pleasant temperatures. The stunning scenery, with mountains and forests reflecting in the water, is particularly vibrant during these seasons. Winter offers a different, tranquil experience, though some activities may be limited.
Lake Sauris is unique due to its artificial origin, created in 1948 by a 136-meter-high dam that was once Italy's highest. This high-altitude lake (977 meters above sea level) is nestled in the Carnic Alps, offering an 'aquamarine mirror' surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It's also known for occasionally revealing traces of the ancient submerged village of La Maina during maintenance draining, adding a historical dimension to its natural beauty.
Yes, the Sauris area is popular for cycling. There are numerous trails for mountain bikers, and road cyclists can enjoy scenic routes like the 'Lake Sauris – Lake Sauris loop'. The adventurous road leading to Sauris itself, with tunnels and bridges, offers spectacular views for cyclists. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Sauris guide.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The journey to Sauris itself offers spectacular views, especially along the adventurous road with its tunnels and bridges. For a specific vantage point, consider the View of Lago di Sauris and Val Tagliamento from Punta dell'Uccel, which is easily accessible via the Weiss path and provides a beautiful panorama of Lake Sauris and the Tagliamento valley. The nearby village of Lateis also offers remarkable views.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Sauris area is known for its unique German-speaking linguistic island, traditional architecture of wood and stone, and local culinary specialties. You can explore villages with distinct cultural heritage and sample local products like cured ham and craft beer. The occasional revealing of the submerged village of La Maina in Lake Sauris also offers a glimpse into the region's past.
Yes, the Sauris region, situated in the Carnic Alps, features several high-altitude bodies of water. Lake Festons, for example, is located at an altitude of 1800m, offering a wonderful plateau with breathtaking views. Lake Sauris itself is at an elevation of 977 meters above sea level, providing a high-mountain lake experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and tranquility of the Sauris lakes. The 'aquamarine mirror' of Lake Sauris, surrounded by mountains and forests, offers incredible photo opportunities and a peaceful escape. The pure air, absence of light pollution, and the 'high vibes of the mountains' are frequently mentioned. The diverse outdoor activities, from gentle walks to thrilling zip-lines, also contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.


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