Trekking around Lake Molveno: 10 trails for hikers
April 11, 2025
Lake Molveno, located in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, is a true gem for mountain hikers. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Brenta group, it offers not only breathtaking views, but also an extensive network of trekking trails of varying degrees of difficulty. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out on mountain trails, the Molveno area has something to offer everyone. In this article, we'll highlight 10 of the most interesting trails that will allow you to discover the beauty of the region while enjoying active recreation in nature. From gentle trails around the lake, to scenic paths leading to waterfalls, to challenging climbs to the surrounding peaks, there is something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will stay in your memory for a long time!
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Trails for beginners and families with children
Molveno Lake is the perfect place to start your trekking adventure, offering gentle trails ideal for beginners and families with children. One of the most popular and easiest trails is the 'Sentiero per il Lago', which goes around the lake. It's a great option for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the crystal clear water and surrounding mountains. The trail is well marked and maintained, making it safe even for the youngest hikers.
For those looking for a little more excitement, we recommend the route to 'Cascatelle Molin dei Mori'. This scenic trail leads to charming waterfalls, offering the shade of the forest and the pleasant sound of the water along the way. The route is relatively flat and easy, as confirmed by the reviews of many tourists. As one visitor noted: 'The route is practically flat and easy, in fact I saw many people with baby strollers.' It's an ideal place for a family outing, where children can explore the beauty of nature.
Another attraction that will delight children and adults alike is 'Parco SCIURY - Ingresso Molveno'. This educational and nature park offers a 2-kilometer route full of attractions. As one visitor describes: "A beautiful 2-kilometer circular walk (about a 2-hour walk) through forests and panoramic points, interspersed with small amusements for children and wooden statues along the route. This is the perfect place to combine nature study with active recreation.
Also worth mentioning are the 'Scale d'Acqua,' which, while not a typical trekking trail, is an attractive walking destination. These 'water steps' formed by the Rio Masso just before it flows into Lake Molveno, are one of the most picturesque places in the area. As one tourist noted: "A few hundred meters before entering Lake Molveno, the Rio Masso forms a series of waterfalls, a sort of 'water staircase' that is very beautiful.
Comparing these routes, it's worth noting that 'Sentiero per il Lago' and 'Cascatelle Molin dei Mori' are the easiest and most accessible, ideal even for families with strollers. 'Parco SCIURY' offers a slightly longer route, but with many activities for children, which can be a plus for families looking for an educational experience. 'Scale d'Acqua' is a rather short walking destination, but offers exceptional views. All of these destinations have high ratings (from 4.7 to 5.0 stars), a testament to their popularity among tourists.
Trails for intermediate hikers
For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the area around Lake Molveno offers several interesting trails of medium difficulty. One of them is the 'Sentiero Andalo-Molveno', connecting two picturesque villages. This route of about 6 kilometers offers a variety of landscapes and slightly more challenging sections. As one tourist describes: 'The path is not as easy as I describe it, and I do not recommend it for families with strollers.' The route requires some fitness, but rewards you with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Another interesting option is the 'Sentiero del rio Lambìn Andalo-Molveno.' This route, running along the Lambìn stream, offers a pleasant walk in the shade of the forest. One hiker describes it this way: 'A path connecting Andalo and Molveno, which runs along the Rio Lambin, roughly 4.5 kilometers Completely immersed in the forest, really beautiful, you can breathe nature.' However, it is worth remembering that some sections can be steep, especially towards Molveno.
For mountain bikers, but also hikers, the 'Paganella Bike Dolomites' is an interesting option. Although mainly known for its bike trails, it also offers hiking trails of varying difficulty. As one visitor notes: 'One of the most beautiful mountain bike rides. We started from the shore and climbed to the top.... A complete route with difficult climbs and medium difficulty, the same goes for the descents.'' The trails offer great views of the Dolomites and the opportunity to reach an altitude of about 1,600 meters above sea level.
For those who want to combine trekking with panoramic views, the 'Lake and Panorama of the Brenta Group' is an ideal destination. This spot offers breathtaking views of Lake Molveno and the surrounding peaks of the Brenta Group. One tourist describes the place as "Absolutely fantastic!" highlighting the beauty of the landscape and the purity of the lake water.
When comparing these routes, several aspects are worth noting. 'Sentiero Andalo-Molveno' and 'Sentiero del rio Lambìn' are of similar length (about 4.5-6 km) and offer picturesque views, but 'Sentiero Andalo-Molveno' can be a bit more challenging due to the variation in terrain. 'Paganella Bike Dolomites' offers the greatest variety of trails and cable car access, which may appeal to those looking for a variety of activity options. 'Lake and Panorama of the Brenta Group' is more of a hiking destination than a route itself, but offers the most spectacular views.
All of these places enjoy high ratings (from 4.5 to 4.8 stars), a testament to their popularity among tourists. The choice of a particular route depends on individual preference - whether you prefer a walk in the shade of the forest, or are more interested in panoramic views. Regardless of your choice, each route offers an unforgettable experience and the opportunity for close contact with the beauty of the Dolomites.
Challenges for experienced hikers
For experienced trekkers and lovers of mountain challenges, the area around Lake Molveno offers several routes that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience and the satisfaction of conquering more difficult terrain. One of the most ambitious goals in the area is to climb 'Cima Paganella'. This peak, rising to 2125 meters above sea level, offers not only a challenge for experienced hikers, but above all spectacular views of the entire area. As one tourist describes: 'Super place for various activities, ferrata, biking, as well as rest. The trip by train first cabin and then by four-person chair. At the top, a chalet with a great restaurant viewing terraces, deck chairs, benches and plenty of space on the grass all for families. It is worth remembering, however, that despite the amenities of the cable car, the summit itself and the surrounding ferratas are challenging for those in good shape and experienced in mountain hiking.
For those who want to combine a challenging route with learning about the local shepherd culture, a trip to 'Malga Tovre' is an interesting option. Located high in the mountains, this traditional shepherd's farm offers not only the opportunity to taste local products, but also beautiful views and contact with nature. One visitor describes the place this way: 'An educational farm with many animals: chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, pigs and two adorable donkeys to cuddle. Here you can eat quality products from the mountain pastures, cheese and milk, yogurts and panna cotta. The road to Malga Tovre can be challenging, especially if you take the longer route through the mountain trails, but the reward of a delicious meal and beautiful views is well worth it.
For those looking for adventure and a variety of trails, consider the 'Paganella Bike Dolomites' complex, which offers challenging hiking trails in addition to bike trails. As one user notes: "High prices for renting bikes and equipment, but if you do it once a year, you can also spend €80 'including the chairlift.' The only drawback is that there is no connection to the Andalo cable cars. So you have to pedal. This place offers trails of varying degrees of difficulty, including the most challenging ones that take you through steep slopes and technical sections.
When comparing these routes for experienced hikers, several aspects are worth noting. 'Cima Paganella' offers the highest vantage point and the possibility to use the cable car, which may be attractive to those who want to save their strength for exploring the summit itself. 'Malga Tovre' is a unique combination of challenging route and cultural attractions, ideal for those interested in local heritage. The 'Paganella Bike Dolomites', on the other hand, offers the greatest variety of routes and a choice between trekking and biking.
In terms of difficulty, 'Cima Paganella' is probably the most challenging due to its altitude and exposure. The route to 'Malga Tovre' can be less technically challenging, but requires good fitness due to its length and elevation. 'Paganella Bike Dolomites' offers routes of varying degrees of difficulty, so there is something for everyone.
The infrastructure is also worth noting - 'Cima Paganella' and 'Paganella Bike Dolomites' offer facilities in the form of railroads and huts, while the route to 'Malga Tovre' has a more wild character. All of these places enjoy high ratings (from 4.5 to 4.8 stars), a testament to their appeal to experienced hikers.
Regardless of the route chosen, each offers an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to deeply immerse yourself in the beauty of the Dolomites. Keep in mind, however, that these routes are intended for people in good shape and experienced in mountain hiking. Always prepare properly, check weather conditions and carry the right equipment.
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