Natural Pools and Waterfalls in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are not just towering peaks and panoramic trails. Hidden among the valleys, between conifer forests and rock faces, lie some of the most magical water spots in the Alps: thundering waterfalls, emerald pools and crystal-clear basins where you can cool off on the hottest summer days. Here is our guide to the best natural pools and waterfalls to discover during your Dolomites holiday.

Fanes Waterfalls

A Spectacle in the Heart of the Nature Park

The Fanes Waterfalls sit within the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, reachable via a roughly two-hour hike from San Vigilio di Marebbe. Water cascades over several tiers of smooth rock, carving out natural pools of intense turquoise.

Distance from San Vigilio: approximately 2 hours on foot
Difficulty: moderate (well-marked mountain trail)
Water temperature: 8-12°C in summer
Best period: July and August

The trail crosses the Nature Park with views of the surrounding peaks that make the hike memorable long before you reach the falls. Bring a swimsuit and a towel — the pools beneath the cascades are swimmable, though the water is decidedly fresh.

Set off early in the morning to have the waterfalls practically to yourselves. The trail from San Vigilio is well marked, but wear hiking boots with non-slip soles — the rocks near the water can be slippery. Water shoes are essential for entering the pools safely.

Riva Waterfalls (Campo Tures)

The Tallest Waterfalls in the Aurina Valley

The Riva Waterfalls, near Campo Tures, rank among the most spectacular in South Tyrol. Three successive drops totalling over 40 metres in height, with a well-maintained path featuring walkways and viewing platforms that let you admire them up close.

Distance from San Vigilio: approximately 1 hour by car (60 km)
Altitude: 900-1,100 m
Entry: free
Visit time: 1-2 hours

The route suits families with children thanks to safe walkways. The water spray creates a natural cooling effect — perfect on July and August days when valley temperatures climb above 30°C.

Lake Braies: Swimming in the Jewel of the Dolomites

Lake Braies needs no introduction: its turquoise waters are among the most photographed in the world. But did you know you can swim in them? The water is cold (14-18°C at the height of summer), but a quick dip after a hike is an unforgettable experience.

Water temperature: 14-18°C (July-August)
Advice: enter gradually and do not stay in the water too long
Best period: mid-July to late August

Do not expect a beach day — this is a bracing, rejuvenating plunge that makes you feel alive. The quietest shores are on the eastern side of the lake, away from the boat dock.

Water temperatures in Dolomite lakes and pools range from 8°C to 18°C, depending on altitude and time of year. July and August are the best months for swimming, but even at the height of summer the water remains cool. Always bring a full change of dry clothes and a warm jacket for afterwards.

Rio Gadera Pools

San Vigilio's Best-Kept Secret

The Rio Gadera flows right through the San Vigilio di Marebbe valley, and along its course small natural pools form where locals cool off on the hottest days. You will not find these pools in tourist guidebooks — they are the area's best-kept secret.

Access: on foot from San Vigilio centre (15-20 minutes)
Water temperature: 10-14°C
Depth: varies from a few centimetres to roughly 1 metre

Look for the spots where the stream slows and widens: that is where the best pools form for sitting and enjoying the cool water. The water is crystal clear over a bed of smooth pebbles. After your dip, dry off on the flat rocks along the bank.

Barbiano Waterfalls

The Spectacle of the Isarco Valley

The Barbiano Waterfalls in the Isarco Valley offer one of South Tyrol's most exciting water trails. A scenic path climbs along the watercourse for about 3 km, with views of successive falls and small bridges crossing the stream.

Distance from San Vigilio: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car (75 km)
Elevation gain: approximately 300 m
Walking time: 2-3 hours (return)
Best period: June to September

The trail is shaded by forest for much of the way, making it pleasant even during the hottest hours. At the top, the main waterfall plunges into a pool where the bravest visitors take a dip.

Safety Tips for Mountain Swimming

The beauty of mountain swimming spots demands respect and care. Here are the fundamental rules:

Before Entering the Water

Water shoes: essential for walking on slippery rocks and riverbeds
Enter gradually: cold water can cause thermal shock — ease in slowly
Never dive in: the depth of natural pools is unpredictable
Never swim alone: especially in remote areas, always go with company

What to Bring

Swimsuit and towel
Water shoes
Full change of dry clothes
Warm jacket (you will feel cold after your swim)
Energy snacks and water
Rubbish bag (leave nature as you found it)

The Perfect Day: Waterfall + Zipline

Want to combine aquatic relaxation with pure adrenaline? Here is the ideal programme for a summer day in the Dolomites:

Morning: hike to the Fanes Waterfalls with a dip in the natural pools. Afternoon: adrenaline on our 7-run zipline in San Vigilio — after the chill of mountain water, the speed of the zipline makes you feel incredibly alive.

Many of our guests describe this combination as the highlight of their holiday. Nature, adventure and well-being in a single day.

Book the Zipline and Complete Your Day

When to Go: the Best Months

The ideal months for natural pools and waterfalls in the Dolomites are July and August. During this period:

Water temperatures reach their peak
Days are long and sunny
Trails are completely free of snow
Streams carry good water levels without flooding

June and September are viable but the water is noticeably colder. Avoid mountain swimming during or immediately after heavy thunderstorms — stream levels can rise rapidly.

Plan Your Water Adventure

San Vigilio di Marebbe is the perfect base for exploring the waterfalls and natural pools of the Dolomites. You can pair each outing with our activities for a complete mountain experience.

To plan your Dolomites holiday of waterfalls, lakes and adventure, get in touch — we will be happy to suggest the best routes based on your preferences.