Forget crowded Como. This is Italy's most beautiful lake
Named Italy's most beautiful lake by the Italian Touring Club, it's not hard to understand why Lake Molveno caught their eye. The lake shimmers in an impossible shade of blue in the summer, but it's equally resplendent in winter when snow casts its magical spell over the scenery.
The imposing backdrop of the Dolomites adds drama to the scenery, making the views simply phenomenal. You're treated to gorgeous vistas at every turn on the lakeside path. Better still, you'll get incredible aerial views by taking the cable car to the Predal ski resort directly from Molveno.
But it's more than just Lake Molveno's beauty and views that get our attention. There's a white-sand beach (yes, really), fabulous hiking trails, and watersports on the lake, giving us plenty to do on the long summer days when the temperatures are in the pleasant mid-20s. And because it's lesser known than other Italian Lakes like Como, Garda, and Maggiore, it's less crowded, and there's an 'I've been let in on a secret' feeling about it, too.
If Lake Molveno sounds like somewhere you'd like to get to know better, Country Living has a special holiday visiting the glorious lake and the Dolomites in 2025. So, what are you waiting for? Book now before too many more people get to know about the most beautiful lake in Italy.
In the meantime, here are six reasons why Lake Molveno deserves a place in your 2025 travel plans...
It sits in a dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Brenta Dolomites, a mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surround Lake Molveno, providing a dramatic backdrop. Adventurers use the town of Molveno as a base, whether hiking, biking, or trying adrenaline sports in the mountains. But it's not all high-octane pursuits—Lake Molveno is an exceedingly peaceful place for a holiday, too.
You can hop aboard one of the mountain railways for something more relaxing. If you join Country Living's exclusive trip in 2025, two famous railway journeys are included.
You get incredible lake and mountain views
The best views across Lake Molveno are from Predal, a pretty town set at a lofty 1,367 metres. You can get there by taking the cable car from the centre of Molveno, although it's possible to walk if you're something of a hiker. Predal is a popular family ski resort too, but it's just as lovely in the summer, and you can see for miles on a clear day.
The water is famously clean
Lake Molveno is considered one of Italy's cleanest lakes, consistently winning awards for its quality, making it a lovely spot for swimming. In summer, the water temperature is a refreshing 14 degrees, but if that's a little cool, stay dry and take a pedalo or kayak out on the water instead. You can hire boats from the Molveno Lido between June and September.
You can walk around the entire lake
The lake's namesake town sits at its northern tip. It's a lovely place for a stroll, admiring its alpine architecture. From Molveno, you can set off on a circular walk around the lake, but you'll need to allow around three hours to complete the circuit.
On a Country Living trip to Molveno, there's plenty of free time factored in around your tours and activities, so you can plan to take a walk around the lake.
There's white sand beach in the summer...
Unlike the pebbly beaches of Lake Como, Molveno has a beautiful recreational beach with lawns, children’s playgrounds, and an open-air swimming pool with slides and water games.
If you stay at Hotel Ariston on Country Living's Dolomites holiday, you're just a short walk from the beach.
... and it looks magical in the winter
Lake Molveno is a lovely winter destination and a family-friendly ski resort. It's not just skiing and snowboarding though. There are all sorts of snowy activities to try, from sledging and ice skating to snowshoe walking and following winter trails.
Still, we're minded to go in the spring or summer and enjoy hikes and train rides in warmer weather. Join Country Living on an eight-day holiday and you'll get to see some of the best bits of Lake Molveno and the surrounding region.
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