The hike to Lake Limides is one of the most accessible and scenic excursions in the Cortina d’Ampezzo area, ideal for families, photographers and lovers of Dolomite landscapes. Thanks to the large parking area at Rifugio Col Gallina (2055 m), easily reached by car along the road to Passo Falzarego, the walk starts already at high altitude and immediately immerses you in an authentic alpine environment.
From the refuge, follow trail 419 towards Forcella Averau: a gentle, well‑marked path that winds through a bright forest of larches and Swiss pines. The ascent is gradual and offers increasingly wide views of the surrounding peaks. After about an hour of walking, you reach Lake Limides, a small alpine pond that provides one of the most iconic reflections in the Dolomites.
In its clear waters you can admire the mirrored silhouettes of Averau, Sasso di Stria, Lagazuoi, and the majestic Tofana di Rozes, creating a postcard‑perfect panorama that changes with the light of the day. It’s an ideal spot for a break, for photography, or simply to enjoy the silence of the high mountains.
Rifugio Col Gallina, the starting and ending point of the hike, is an excellent base for spending a day outdoors. Around the refuge stretches a large grassy area equipped with a playground, inflatables, swings and slides—perfect for children to play safely. From the panoramic terrace, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the main Dolomite peaks: to the north rise Lagazuoi and the Tofane group, while to the south Cima Gallina, Croda Negra, Averau, Nuvolau, and the Cinque Torri dominate the landscape.
A simple yet emotion‑filled excursion, perfect for discovering one of the most photogenic lakes in the Dolomites.
