Best attractions and places to see around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora include a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities in the Val Pusteria valley. This artificial lake, created in 1958, dams the Rienza river for hydroelectric power. Located at the foot of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area offers impressive alpine landscapes. A significant portion of the municipality of Olang lies within the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park, providing diverse natural features and cultural sites.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
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Popular around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
MTB Trails around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Cycling around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Road Cycling Routes around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Hiking around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora

Gravel biking around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Running Trails around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Mountain Hikes around Olanger Lake - Lake di Valdaora
Nice rest area, bad bike path
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Beautiful lake, bad bike path
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Rest area with rain shelter directly on the cycle path.
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Beautiful reservoir on the way to Lake Braies, for example.
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Beautiful cycle path along the reservoir. The water surface shines in the sun.
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The Olang Reservoir (also Welsberger Reservoir, Welsberger Lake or Olanger Lake, Italian Lago di Valdaora) is located in the upper Puster Valley in South Tyrol. It dams the Rienz River at a height of up to 1055 m and covers an area of up to 44 hectares. The reservoir is used to generate energy. In addition to the water from the reservoir, the associated Bruneck-Olang hydroelectric power station also uses catchments on the Rienz tributaries Antholzer Bach, Brunstbach, Furkelbach and Wielenbach.
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Very nice cycle path with good signage and great panorama.
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Very nice cycle paths with good signage and a great panorama. It's really fun to cycle here.
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The region around Olanger Lake offers diverse natural beauty. Beyond the lake itself, you'll find the impressive Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a significant portion of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. This park features stunning alpine landscapes, rugged peaks, and unique geological formations like the Earth Pyramids. You can also discover natural lakes such as Pragser Wildsee (Lake Braies) and Toblacher See within the nature park.
Yes, the area is very family-friendly. A notable attraction is Children's World Olang, which features a climbing area, a waterworld, a woodland playground, and a 56-meter-long giant slide. It's designed to be accessible with prams or pushchairs. Additionally, many of the trails around the lake, such as the one on the south side of Lake Olang (Olanger Reservoir), are easy and suitable for families.
Valdaora boasts several interesting historical and cultural sites. You can explore the Lippa Sawmill, the last Venetian sawmill in the Val Pusteria valley, or visit the Peter Sigmayr Monument. The region also has culturally significant churches like the Chiesetta Kappler-Kappler Stöckl chapel and the Parish Churches in Valdaora di Sopra and St. Wolfgang. Don't miss the Old Lime Kilns or the Welsperg Castle, a well-preserved inner castle with a high keep.
The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy pleasant hiking and cycling paths along the lake's shores, including a gravel bike path on the south side of Lake Valdaora (Olanger See). The Pusterbike Cycle Route also passes by the lake. For more specific routes, you can find various easy hikes, road cycling routes, and gravel biking tours in the surrounding area.
Yes, the region offers several spots with great views. The Messner Mountain Museum Corones, located at 2,275 meters above sea level, provides panoramic 360° views of the Dolomites, Marmolada, Ortles/Ortler, and the Zillertal summits. Additionally, highlights like the Rest area by Lake Valdaora offer views directly over Olanger Lake.
Olanger Lake is beautiful year-round. In summer, it's popular for hiking, cycling, and fishing. Winter offers activities like ice hole fishing. The autumn months are particularly scenic for hiking, with vibrant foliage. The Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park is accessible for exploration during warmer months, while the Olang 1 Gondola provides access to higher elevations for scenic views in various seasons.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Olanger Lake during the summer months, provided you have the necessary license. In winter, ice hole fishing is also organized, offering a unique seasonal experience.
Yes, there are several designated rest areas and shelters around Olanger Lake. The Rest area by Lake Valdaora is a popular spot with views of the lake, and the Shelter at Lake Olang (Olanger Stausee) offers an ideal place for a break in any weather, complete with tables and benches.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and accessibility of the area. The easy trails around the lake, like the one on the south side of Lake Olang (Olanger Reservoir), are highly rated. The gravel bike path along Lake Valdaora (Olanger See) is also a favorite for its good views. The convenient rest stops and family-friendly facilities contribute to a positive experience for many.
Yes, the region is home to the unique Earth Pyramids, which are fascinating geological formations. These can be accessed via mountain biking tours from Olang/Valdaora, offering a glimpse into the natural history of the area.
While specific dog-friendly trails are not detailed, the numerous hiking and cycling paths around Olanger Lake and within the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park generally welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners follow local regulations. It's always advisable to check specific trail rules before heading out.
The Olang 1 Gondola is a major tourist attraction in Valdaora, providing easy accessibility to higher elevations. It offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular choice for those looking to experience the alpine environment without extensive hiking.


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