Italy’s Dolomites Mountains: Home to the Country’s Most Stunning Natural Swimming Pools

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Italy's Dolomites Mountains: Home to the Country's Most Stunning Natural Swimming Pools

While many travel to Italy for its wonderful old towns — like this underrated city that boasts exquisite food and awe-inspiring historic sites — Europe’s largest peninsula is also a terrific destination for those seeking natural splendor. Italy is full of outdoor gems, including rocky islands, hidden beaches, sparkling lakes, and a beautiful coastline with hiking trails. 



While you could spend a lifetime exploring the arresting landscapes the country has to offer, Italy probably delivers its biggest blast of outdoor wonder in its mountainous north, where you’ll come up against the southern rise of the mighty Alps. It’s here where you’ll find the Dolomites, the crown jewels of Italian mountains that are so fairytale perfect that they may seem unreal. Not only is the area a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also a national park with incredible mountain views. And for those willing to get a bit off the beaten track, you’ll also find the Emerald Pools (Pozze Smeraldine), one of the country’s best natural swimming basins.

Jump into crystalline waters in perfect alpine surroundings

Emerald Pools in the Dolomites, Italy



Situated along a stretch of the Meduna River in the adjacent Friulian Dolomites Nature Park, the Emerald Pools are a series of idyllic, crystal clear pools with a brilliant greenish hue. The pools vary in size and depth and are surrounded not only by lush, verdant forest, but also large white boulders that make the perfect platforms for lounging and sunbathing.

The Emerald Pools are the perfect destination on a hot summer day in the Friulian Dolomites, though you should get there early during those scorching days as they can draw crowds. A jump into the rejuvenating, pristine mountain water will have you deeply refreshed, just be warned that — given their mountainous location — the pools stay chilly year-round.

The pools are located two and a half hours north of Venice near the village of Tramonti di Sopra in the scenic Val di Tramontina region, and are about a 20-minute walk from the hamlet. The trail is well marked, and make sure to stop along the way at the natural spring of Sgurlina. This idyllic spot is the perfect place to take a deep drink of the pure mountain water before topping off your bottle and carrying on to the pools.

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Experience the wonder of the Friulian Dolomites

Cows resting in the Friulian Dolomites

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.