Lago di Stramentizzo — The Drowned Village
Few visitors to Val di Fiemme know that the luminous turquoise reservoir shimmering along the valley floor between Cavalese and Molina di Fiemme conceals an entire village beneath its surface — the hamlet of Stramentizzo was flooded in 1954 when the dam was built, and when water levels drop in late summer, the ghostly outlines of stone walls and a church foundation re-emerge from the shallows. It
The Story of the Drowned Village
The Avisio river was dammed to create a hydroelectric reservoir, and the 300 inhabitants of old Stramentizzo were relocated to a new village on the hillside above — they left in a hurry, and local legend holds that the church bell was never retrieved.
A small open-air exhibition panel on the lakeside road near Molina di Fiemme tells the story with archive photographs; the before-and-after images are quietly devastating.
The Lake Today
The reservoir's colour shifts from deep jade to brilliant turquoise depending on the light and season, and the surrounding larch and spruce slopes reflect perfectly in calm morning conditions — photographers who arrive at sunrise will find compositions that rival anything in the Tre Cime area.
A gravel path runs along the western shore for about 3 km, passing picnic benches and a small beach where locals swim in July and August; the water is cold and clear.
How to Visit
The lake is best reached by car or e-bike along the SS612 between Cavalese and Molina di Fiemme; pull off at the signed layby just north of the dam wall for the best elevated view of the reservoir and the valley beyond.
Late August to early October offers the lowest water levels and the best chance of seeing the submerged ruins; combine with a drive up to the Passo Lavazè above for panoramic views of the Latemar massif.
More of Cavalese
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Cavalese →
