Croda da Lago is a compact mountain chain west of San Vito di Cadore, rising to 2,709 metres and enclosing the beautiful Lago Federa at its base — one of the most photogenic lakes in the Dolomites, set against sheer dolomitic walls and typically framed by wild flowers in July. The chain sits between the Cortina basin and the Fiorentina valley, and the approach from Cortina (via the Pocol plateau) is more common, but the peaks are clearly visible from San Vito and reachable in a long day.
The walk to Lago Federa from the Cortina side takes around two hours one-way on a well-marked trail with significant elevation gain. The Rifugio Palmieri sits beside the lake and serves food and offers overnight accommodation, making the area popular for a two-day circuit. The rock walls above the lake host advanced climbing routes. From San Vito the best approach is by car to the Pocol road above Cortina, then on foot.