Hey Lykkers! If you’re dreaming of a quiet mountain escape with jaw-dropping views, let me tell you about a secret spot in the Dolomites that’s stolen my heart: Lake Baste (Lago delle Baste), sitting right under the towering Mount Pelmo.
This isn’t your average tourist stop—it’s pure alpine magic, where a crystal-clear lake perfectly mirrors one of Italy’s most iconic peaks, and the only soundtrack is the whisper of the wind and distant birdcalls.
Where Is This Hidden Gem?
Lake Baste, or Lago delle Baste, rests high on the Mondeval Plateau, a peaceful meadow surrounded by wildflowers and dramatic cliffs. Just below you looms Mount Pelmo, its throne-like shape that dominates the skyline. The whole area feels untouched and incredibly special.
How to Get There
Drive or take the bus from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Passo Giau, then hike about 1 to 1.5 hours along an easy, scenic trail to reach the lake.
Why You’ll Love It
The hike is the kind that makes you fall in love with hiking all over again—easy enough for most people, but with plenty of “wow” moments. You’ll pass meadows sprinkled with colorful flowers, watch marmots popping their heads out of burrows, and breathe in some of the freshest mountain air you can imagine. When you reach Lake Baste, the reward is that mirror-like water perfectly reflecting Mount Pelmo’s rugged face. It’s the kind of view you want to sit with for hours—just soaking it all in.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can keep going to Monte Mondeval—only about 30 minutes further—and explore an ancient archaeological site where they found the remains of “Mondeval Man,” a Mesolithic hunter buried thousands of years ago. How cool is that? Hiking here isn’t just about nature—it’s a little history lesson too.
Nearby Adventures to Add On
If you have extra time, don’t miss the nearby alpine lakes like Lago di Misurina or the famous Lago di Braies. Both are within an hour’s drive and offer beautiful walks, quaint cafes, and plenty of photo ops.
For longer hikes, the Alta Via 1 trail cuts through this part of the Dolomites, perfect if you want to spend several days trekking through some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Where to Crash After a Day in the Mountains
You’ve got some solid options nearby:
Hotel Piccolo Pocol: A budget-friendly, cozy spot just outside Cortina, perfect if you want to be close to Passo Giau and hit the trail early.
Cost: Around $250–$300 per night.
Ciasa Vervei: If you want a bit more comfort with a rustic alpine vibe, this guesthouse in Pocol is a wonderful choice. It feels like a mountain chalet, and the peaceful setting is perfect for unwinding.
Cost: Approximately $140–$180 per night.
Food That Hits the Spot
After all that hiking, you’ll want some seriously good food:
Berghotel Passo Giau: This mountain inn right at the trailhead is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. Their polenta with mushrooms or local casunziei (beetroot-filled pasta) is exactly the kind of fuel you need.
Meal cost: Around $18–$25 per person.
Rifugio Monte Pelmo: A rustic refuge serving simple, delicious mountain fare with stunning views. Try their cheese canederli (bread dumplings) or potato gnocchi with wild mushrooms for a comforting meal after exploring.
Meal cost: About $15–$22 per person.
Baita Fraina: For a special treat, this restaurant near Cortina offers elevated local cuisine in a cozy, elegant atmosphere. Their smoked cheese or risotto with walnuts are standout options
Meal cost: Roughly $30–$40 per person.
Guided Tours (For Those Who Want the Inside Track)
If you’d rather explore with a local expert, several guided hikes and alpine tours unlock Lake Baste’s secrets.
Dolomite Mountains offers small-group hikes led by naturalists who share insights about the area’s geology, flora, and the fascinating story of Mondeval Man. For a deeper dive, try sunrise or sunset photography tours to capture the lake’s mirror-like reflections at golden hour. Tours typically range from $80–$150 per person, including lunch at a rifugio—worth it for the hidden viewpoints and stories you’d miss solo.
Why You Should Go Now
Lake Baste isn’t some crowded tourist trap. It’s a slice of quiet beauty that feels like it belongs just to you once you get there. The hike is refreshing but manageable, the views are straight-up breathtaking, and the whole experience is exactly what you need to unplug, recharge, and fall in love with the mountains all over again.
If you want to escape the noise and discover a truly special part of the Dolomites, pack your boots, grab a camera, and don’t forget your sense of wonder. This place is a memory waiting to happen.
