Particularly suggestive after sunset, when the calm waters of the lake reflect the lights of the town, giving us an exciting play of shapes and colors. This is the magic of Alleghe lake on a summer night, where a light breeze that moves the hair and the scent of the woods is enough to awaken our natural instincts. This splendid deep green lake is nestled between the Zoldo Dolomites, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, in the province of Belluno.
It is an ideal destination for a nice boat trip, a relaxing walk along its banks or very simply to enjoy a few hours of sunshine on the various beaches with a cool drink in hand. Not to be missed is the "Competition of Illuminated Boats", a well-established tradition, in which illuminated boats ply along the lake, each representing a free theme. At the end of the ceremony, the traditional fireworks display is held, thus illuminating the imposing Dolomites and filling the calm waters of the lake with reflections.
The Alleghe Lake is the consequence of a remarkable catastrophic event, which occurred in the 18th century due to abundant autumn rainfall and the harsh winter, which led to the freezing of the ground. All this caused, in January 1771, a collapse downstream of the top of Monte Piz, thus obstructing the Cordevole torrent and consequently impeding its flow of water.
The event led to the destruction of three villages, Riete, Fusine and Marin and the death of many people. In the following months the stream began to fill the valley floor, submerging the ruins of the inhabited areas and the castle of Sommariva.
The water level continued to rise, and before reaching the top of the barrier and starting to flow, which at that time was much higher and reached the town of Caprile, it began to submerge many other houses, forcing the inhabitants to escape in the the heart of winter to seek a safe haven. Only later did the Serenissima Republic of Venice, owner of the territory, after various attempts by its engineers, rebuild the village upstream precisely where today Alleghe stands.
A totally mountain area, embroidered by incredible valleys and well-kept villages.
