Like many lakes in Trentino, Lake Molveno has also been used for hydroelectric purposes, which has partially altered its appearance. Formed by a landslide, the lake marks the natural boundary between the Brenta Dolomites to the west and the Paganella–Monte Gazza massif to the southeast.
A submerged forest was discovered on its lakebed, consisting of a large number of uprooted or broken trunks buried in the sediment, as well as several trees still standing and rooted in the ancient forest soil. The analysis of this forest allowed scientists to determine the lake’s formation date: around 3,000 years ago.
With a surface area of 3.27 km², Lake Molveno is the second-largest natural lake entirely within Trentino. It is also known for its rich fish population, and documents from the 1600s confirm the long presence of Arctic char.
“A precious pearl in an even more precious casket,” wrote the author and poet Antonio Fogazzaro, a frequent visitor. Its crystal-clear waters and beach have been awarded the title of “Most Beautiful Lake in Italy” for the sixth consecutive year by Legambiente and the Italian Touring Club. Molveno has also received the TCI Orange Flag for environmental and tourist quality.
Size of Lake Molveno
Width: 1.5 km
Length: 5.1 km
Maximum depth: 123 meters
Area: 3.27 km²
What to do at Lake Molveno
Lake Molveno, with its crystal-clear waters fed by the Brenta peaks and the slopes of the Paganella, offers water‑sports enthusiasts the chance to enjoy windsurfing, canoeing, sailing, rowing and pedal boats.
Families will find a true mountain lido with 12 hectares of beach, lawns and mini‑golf for children, the Acqua Park with slides and water games, a mini‑club and a pump track with a skill area for young mountain‑bike learners.
With the Panoramic Cable Car, open from May to October, you can reach the Pradel Plateau, a starting point for numerous hikes in the Brenta Dolomites and a stunning viewpoint over the lake.
About ten minutes by car from Lake Molveno lies the Spormaggiore Wildlife Park.
Tour of Lake Molveno
A beautiful 11‑km walk (about two hours), also suitable for cycling, circles Lake Molveno. The route starts from the campsite towards the Ponte Romano and the Fortini di Napoleone, then continues along the western shore before joining the panoramic path on the eastern side. The return to Molveno follows the Re dei Belgi trail and the Bior bridge.
