The Lakes Santo (Lech Sant) and Iman (Lech da Iman) are two beautiful alpine lakes located on the Alpe Mastlé, above 2,000 metres, in the heart of Val Gardena. Overlooking the Odle peaks, this area is perfect for a summer hike thanks to its wide alpine meadows, open views and the presence of several traditional mountain huts. This loop trail starts from the upper station of the Col Raiser cable car and combines alpine lakes, panoramic viewpoints and a scenic descent towards San Giacomo and Santa Cristina.
1. From Col Raiser to Lakes Santo and Iman
Time: approx. 1h15 – Difficulty: easy
From Col Raiser, follow trail no. 2, which leads in just a few minutes to the Rifugio Fermeda, an excellent first panoramic stop. Continuing towards Sella Cuca, the path opens onto bright alpine pastures that lead to Lake Santo, nestled in a grassy hollow at the foot of the Odle.
From here, climb gently until you meet trail no. 6, which crosses the Alpe Mastlé, passing first the Ristoro Mastlé and then the Ristoro Troier. A short descent finally reaches the peaceful Lake Iman, smaller and more secluded, ideal for a quiet break.
2. From Lake Santo to Pic and the Cristo del Seurasass
Time: approx. 2h to the valley – Difficulty: moderate
Back at Lake Santo, follow trail no. 6 again southwards, climbing towards the Pic (2363 m), a natural balcony with spectacular views of the Dolomites. The route continues to the famous Cristo del Seurasass, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Val Gardena.
From here, trail 6 descends towards San Giacomo and Ortisei, but before the main descent a red-marked deviation branches off to the southeast. Follow it to a junction, then keep the right-hand path to reach trail no. 4.
- Right → descent to San Giacomo
- Left → towards Uleta and then Santa Cristina
Along the descent, a short detour leads to Laguscèl, a small forest lake.
