Toblacher See / Lago di Dobbiaco

On a par with the migratory birds

When summer arrives, it drives the excursionists onto the boats. Then you can explore all the hidden places of the lake and enjoy the richness of bird species that feel at home here. It is no wonder that Lake Toblach is known and popular among all bird watchers in the region. Especially in spring and autumn, the number of sightings increases, as the lake is located on a well-used route of many migratory birds. And some of them are rarely seen.

Because the importance of the lake for gentle hiking tourism is also recognized, a nature trail was created in 2000, which takes about two hours to walk around the lake and presents fascinating facts about the local natural landscape on several information boards. Here you can learn a lot about the animals, plants, and rock formations that can be discovered around the lake.

And as you take your stroll, you occasionally come across traces of a dark past. Not far from the water, there are five bunkers that were built at the end of the 1930s on the orders of the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. They were part of the Alpine Wall in South Tyrol and were intended to protect the Italian border from the German Reich during the Second World War – so strangely enough, from Mussolini's most important ally at the time. After a personal intervention by Hitler and German protests, the construction work was finally stopped. The facilities were never attacked and thus still provide a well-preserved testimony of the war years to this day.

At more than 1,100 meters above sea level, there are of course perfect trails for mountain bikers as well as climbing routes for hobby mountaineers and experienced climbers. With the mighty peaks and summits of the Dolomites always in view, sporting achievements can be achieved in a particularly impressive environment.

For those who want to pitch their tents here for longer, this can be taken literally, as a campsite in the immediate vicinity opens its doors to nature-loving holidaymakers all year round. In line with eco-camping, great emphasis is placed on environmental protection here. However, this does not mean that you have to do without any comfort. A washroom with generously designed showers is available, as well as rentable private bathrooms, washing machine, tumble dryer, and W-LAN.

A fine selection of restaurants ensures culinary well-being – be it Italian specialties, grilled delicacies, South Tyrolean treats such as the traditional Schlutzkrapfen or freshly caught trout from Lake Toblach.
And when the stomach is satisfied, the soul can also be soothed – and that is one of the most important goals of a vacation, isn't it?