---
title: "Malga Federa"
type: "mountain-hut"
lang: "en"
elevation_m: 1800
capacity: "10 Guests"
opening_dates: "Year-round"
region: "Veneto"
locality: "Cortina d'Ampezzo"
url: "https://dolomites-guide.com/mountain-huts/malga-federa/"
description: "Guide to Malga Federa at 1,800 m near Lago Federa. Year-round alpine dairy lodge with 10 beds, mirror-like reflections, near Cortina d'Ampezzo."
---

# Malga Federa

A tiny alpine dairy farm turned mountain lodge perched above the shores of Lago Federa, one of the most photographed lakes in the Cortina basin.

## At a glance

- Elevation: 1800 m
- Capacity: 10 Guests
- Opening: Year-round
- Region: Veneto
- Locality: Cortina d'Ampezzo

## Description

Malga Federa sits at 1,800 m (5,906 ft) on a grassy shelf overlooking **Lago Federa**, a small alpine lake framed by larch forest and sheer Dolomite walls. The malga operates year-round and is one of the most intimate overnight options near **Cortina d'Ampezzo**, with space for just ten guests. Its position between **Croda da Lago** and **Becco di Mezzodì** makes it a quiet alternative to the busier refuges along the main corridors.

The lake itself is a short walk below the hut and is famous for the mirror-like reflections of the surrounding peaks at dawn. In autumn the golden larches ringing the shore create one of the most iconic landscapes in the **Ampezzo Dolomites**. Trails from here connect to **Forcella Ambrizzola** and onward to **Rifugio Palmieri** at **Croda da Lago**.

Access is typically on foot from **Passo Staulanza** or via a forest track from the **Campo di Sotto** area above Cortina. The hut serves traditional South Tyrolean dishes and fresh dairy products. Given its tiny capacity, reservations are essential at any time of year - especially during the autumn foliage season.