What to See in Val di Fassa: The Area from Costalunga Pass
At 1,753 metres above sea level, you find yourself at the exact point where Val di Fassa meets South Tyrol. Costalunga Pass is not just a destination: it is your front-row balcony overlooking three undisputed icons of the UNESCO Dolomites. Lake Carezza, the spires of the Latemar and the grandeur of the Catinaccio (Rosengarten) are quite literally your backyard. Discover what makes this corner of the world a masterpiece of nature.
Lake Carezza: Just a Stroll Away
Known in Ladin as "Lec de Ergobando" (Lake of the Rainbow), it is one of the most photographed bodies of water on Earth. And you have the privilege of reaching it on foot.
The Colours and the Magic of the Water
Emerald in the morning, turquoise at noon, deep green at dusk. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Carezza shift colour with the sunlight, creating a flawless mirror in which the peaks of the Latemar are reflected. Comfortable wooden walkways and the suspension bridge let you admire this spectacle from every angle, in full respect of the protected landscape.
Getting There: The Luxury of Forgetting Your Car
While other visitors hunt for a parking spot, you simply step out of CostaLungaHouse. A flat, easy stroll of just 20 minutes through the woods, suitable even for pushchairs, brings you to the lakeshore. And if you prefer public transport, bus line 180 stops right outside and whisks you there in no time.
Lake di Mezzo: A Secret in the Forest
Few people know about it, and that is precisely its charm. Following the evocative "Legends Trail" for another 10 minutes beyond Lake Carezza, you will reach Lake di Mezzo (Mittlerer Karer See). A pocket of absolute peace, far from the crowds, perfect for anyone seeking the silence of the true mountains.
The Legend of the Water Nymph Ondina
Why does the lake shimmer with the colours of the rainbow? Legend tells of a powerful sorcerer from the Latemar, who fell in love with the beautiful nymph Ondina dwelling in the waters of the lake. To seduce her, the sorcerer conjured a magnificent rainbow between the mountains. But the nymph, frightened, plunged beneath the surface forever. Furious at being rejected, the sorcerer shattered the rainbow, scattering its thousand coloured fragments into the lake.
The Lake in Winter and the Rebirth After the Storm
Even under the snow, the magic endures: ice captures the reflections of the Latemar and evening lantern walks conjure fairy-tale atmospheres. And if you look at the surrounding woods, you will notice the marks left by Storm Vaia in 2018: today nature is regenerating, and from the fallen spruce trees, precious handcrafted violins have been born, a symbol of this land's resilience.
Discover what to do in winter →The Catinaccio: The Pink Mountain Outside Your Window
It is not simply a rocky massif: it is the stage for one of the most moving natural spectacles in the world, one you can witness every evening from your own terrace.
The Enrosadira and the Curse of King Laurin
Every evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, the Dolomite rock of the Catinaccio catches fire, blazing in intense shades of pink and violet. This is the Enrosadira. Science explains it through the reflection of light on dolomite stone, but legend tells a far more romantic story: King Laurin of the dwarves, defeated in battle, cursed his splendid rose garden on the Catinaccio, commanding that no one should ever see it again, neither by day nor by night. He forgot, however, about twilight, and it is precisely in that suspended moment that the roses bloom once more upon the rock.
A Hiker's Paradise
From Costalunga Pass you have direct access to trails that defy gravity. Set off towards Rifugio Roda di Vaèl or reach Rifugio Fronza alle Coronelle, the gateway to the legendary Vajolet Towers. (You will find all the detailed itineraries on our Summer page).
Discover summer hikes →Nova Levante and Costalunga Pass: Your Perfect Centre of Gravity
You are standing at the exact meeting point between the Ladin culture of Val di Fassa and the South Tyrolean tradition of the Eggental (Val d'Ega). At 1,753 metres you enjoy the peace of the high altitude, yet with unbeatable logistical convenience. Everything you need is close at hand: just 10 minutes by car you will find the centres of Nova Levante (Welschnofen) and Vigo di Fassa (with pharmacies, banks, supermarkets and restaurants). Bolzano is only 30 minutes away and lovely Moena just 20. And remember: thanks to the Val di Fassa Guest Card included with your stay, you can travel across the whole of Trentino for free using the public transport that stops right outside your door. At Passo Costalunga, however, you already have everything you need: pizzerias and restaurants, bars, tobacconists.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Area
How far is Lake Carezza from CostaLungaHouse?
Just 20 minutes on foot, along an easy woodland trail, or 5 minutes by bus or car.
Can you swim in Lake Carezza?
No, it is a strictly protected natural area. Its beauty is purely contemplative: you admire it from the dedicated wooden walkways, to preserve its delicate ecosystem.
Why does the Catinaccio (Rosengarten) turn pink at sunset?
The phenomenon is called Enrosadira. Dolomite rock is rich in calcium and magnesium carbonate, which at sunset reflects the red and orange wavelengths of the sun. From our apartment terrace you have a perfect view.
How do I get to Costalunga Pass?
By car: from Bolzano (SS241, 30 min), from Trento (via Val di Fiemme, 1 h 15 min) or from Verona (A22 exit Egna-Ora, 1 h 30 min). Once you arrive at CostaLungaHouse, your free parking space is always guaranteed.
What to See in Val di Fassa: Your Stay in the Heart of the Dolomites
If you are wondering what to see in Val di Fassa, the answer is all around CostaLungaHouse. From this apartment at 1,753 metres, the best things to do in Val di Fassa begin without needing to start the car. You can walk to the famous Lake Carezza to admire its emerald waters, explore the hidden Lake di Mezzo, or be moved by the Enrosadira on the Catinaccio right from your balcony. Whether you want to discover the legends of the Latemar, stroll by lantern light in winter, or explore the area between Nova Levante and Vigo di Fassa, this is the perfect base. Forget the crowded hotels near the lake: choose a 75 sqm apartment with a full kitchen, panoramic views and free parking. By booking directly on our website, you secure the best guaranteed price with no commissions and open the door to your perfect Dolomites holiday.
20 Minutes from Lake Carezza · Catinaccio View · Free Parking
CostaLungaHouse is about 20 minutes on foot from Lake Carezza. Apartment for 6 people, direct booking, best price guaranteed.