The small lake of Fiè allo Sciliar

The small lake of Fiè lies among shaded woods in front of the peaceful Sciliar Massif. In the summer of 2010 it was nominated as the most beautiful lake in Italy on account of its stunning landscape and the quality of its waters. The lake is not natural. It was created in the XVIth century by Leonhard von Vòls (Fiè) – Colonna, Captain of Tyrol, as a fishing lake. Today fishing is not allowed. Swimming, however, is very popular among hikers and mountain climbers who wish to find somewhere cool off. A beach on the lake shore has a bar and shower/toilet facilities. The lake is divided into two by a grove of reeds. Half of the lake is a nature reserve where swimming is not allowed. In winter a part of the lake freezes and is perfect for ice skating. As the lake is only 3.5 m deep it freezes quickly during the winter.