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© Angela Pierdonà
© Valentina Pagot
Lake Santa Croce is one of the most popular natural destinations in Alpago, in the province of Belluno, and the second-largest lake in the Veneto region. Located between Farra d’Alpago, Puos d’Alpago and Ponte nelle Alpi, near the border with the province of Treviso, it offers a spectacular landscape with crystal-clear waters surrounded by the mountains of Alpago and Mount Nevegal.
Created after a landslide blocked the Val Lapisina valley and changed the course of the Piave River, today Lake Santa Croce is the perfect destination for travellers looking for nature, relaxation and outdoor activities near the Dolomites.
Things to do at Lake Santa Croce
Lake Santa Croce is especially famous for water sports thanks to its favourable winds, making it one of the best locations in Veneto for windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing.
During the summer, the lakeside beaches are ideal for relaxing, enjoying a picnic and swimming in the designated bathing areas.
Families and outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy beach volleyball courts, playgrounds and several hiking and mountain bike trails around the lake.
Sbarai Oasis: birdwatching and nature
On the shores of Lake Santa Croce lies the Sbarai Oasis, an important wetland area in Alpago and a perfect spot for birdwatching.
The protected area is home to many water bird species, including herons, little grebes, lapwings and reed warblers, as well as rich vegetation with white willow trees.
The oasis can be reached via a flat walking path, suitable also for families.
Baia delle Sirene and the fish farming centre
On the southern shore of the lake, in the Baia delle Sirene, visitors can find the Farra d’Alpago experimental fish farming centre, created to protect local fish species such as whitefish, pike and trout.
The centre also offers educational activities focused on lake biodiversity and the importance of preserving the natural environment.
Cycling and walking route around Lake Santa Croce
One of the best ways to discover the lake is to follow the scenic loop trail of around 17.4 km, suitable both for walking and cycling.
The route starts from Puos d’Alpago and passes through Farra d’Alpago, Pojatte, Santa Croce del Lago, La Secca and Bastia d’Alpago, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Useful information about Lake Santa Croce
- Location: Alpago, province of Belluno, Veneto
- Main activities: windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, hiking, cycling and birdwatching
- Swimming: allowed in designated areas during the summer season
- Best time to visit: from spring to early autumn
- Lake loop trail: approximately 17.4 km
How to reach Lake Santa Croce
Lake Santa Croce is easily accessible from the A27 Venice–Belluno motorway:
- from Treviso and Venice: exit at Lago di Santa Croce-Alpago on the A27;
- from Belluno: follow directions to Ponte nelle Alpi and Alpago;
- from Cortina d’Ampezzo and Cadore: take the SS51 road towards Longarone and Ponte nelle Alpi.
Lake Santa Croce is an ideal destination for a nature weekend, combining outdoor sports, relaxation, Dolomite landscapes and the discovery of the unique environment of Alpago.
Where to stay near Lake Santa Croce
Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodation options in the Alpago area, including Farra d’Alpago, Puos d’Alpago and Tambre. The area offers hotels, bed & breakfasts, holiday apartments, farm stays and campsites, perfect both for relaxing by the lake and enjoying outdoor activities.
Accommodation facilities in the area provide easy access to beaches, cycling routes, the Sbarai Oasis and the main nature trails of Alpago. For summer holidays, lakeside accommodation is particularly popular, while mountain villages nearby are ideal for hikers and travellers looking for panoramic views of the Dolomites.
