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Pearl of the Dolomites

Lake Braies in Italy (Italian: Lago di Braies, German: Pragser Wildsee) is South Tyrol’s most famous lake – an icon of the Dolomites, a much-loved subject for photographs, and the starting point for some unforgettable hikes and walks. The Italian TV series “Un passo dal cielo” (English: One Step from Heaven) with Terence Hill brought the lake’s incredible beauty to the attention of the general public, but its beauty has always held a special place in the hearts of mountain lovers. Its crystal-clear water, lit by the sun, takes on every shade of green and blue, nestled among the imposing rock faces of Seekofel mountain (Italian: Croda del Becco) which, at 2,800 metres above sea level, creates a magnificent backdrop that takes your breath away.

This alpine gem, located at an altitude of almost 1,500 metres, offers a different experience every season, transforming from a sparkling stretch of water to a silent, frozen landscape, without ever losing its magic.

Where is Lake Braies?

  • So, where exactly is Lake Braies? The lake is situated at the foot of Prags Valley (Val di Braies), a branch of Pustertal Valley (Val Pusteria), in the municipality of Braies, about 97 km from Bolzano in northern Italy. It is located within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, a protected area that forms part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. The nearest small towns are Schmieden/Ferrara di Braies and St.Veit/San Vito. Although easy to reach, its location is the secret behind its seclusion and wild charm.

Things to do at Lake Braies all year round

A holiday or a weekend break at Lake Braies is a great idea at any time of year, with each season revealing a different side to its character.

Lake Braies in summer

Summer is the most dynamic time of the year. The main activities you can do include:

  • Circular walk around Lake Braies: an easy, scenic walk of around 3.5 km that takes you around the whole lake in about an hour and a half. The route offers ever-changing views of the water and surrounding landscape. The section on the west of the lake is flat and suitable for all abilities, whereas the section on the east has a few steps and a narrower path.

  • Boat rental: the most iconic experience is without doubt hiring a rowing boat from the famous boathouse on stilts. Gliding gently across the emerald waters is a wonderful way to admire Seekofel mountain from a unique vantage point.

  • Hiking: the lake is the starting point for a number of walks, such as the hike to the Malga Foresta mountain hut, a gentle, rewarding walk.

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Harald Wisthaler

Lake Braies in autumn

Autumn, especially from October to the start of November, transforms the landscape into a palette of warm colours. The larch trees surrounding the lake take on a rich golden-yellow hue, creating a spectacular contrast with the deep blue of the water, becoming even more striking at sunset. It is the favourite season of photographers wanting to capture the colour of the autumn leaves.

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Manuel Kottersteger

Lake Braies in winter

Lake Braies in winter freezes over completely and a thick blanket of snow covers everything, creating a quiet, magical atmosphere. It is possible to go snowshoeing along the lake edge or simply enjoy the otherworldly silence of this enchanted landscape.

(C) KOTTERSTEGER 2020

Places to visit at Lake Braies and in the surrounding area

As well as its natural beauty, the lake and surrounding area offer some fantastic places of interest that will make any visit more rewarding. The most recognisable image is undoubtedly the wooden stilt house with its iconic rowing boats, a not-to-be-missed photo opportunity that captures the spirit of the place. 

Walking along the western side of the lake, you’ll discover the small yet charming Lake Braies Chapel (Cappella del Lago di Braies), built in 1904 and dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows. This sacred place was also the site of an important historical event linked to the liberation of prominent prisoners during the Second World War. 

If you’re exploring the surrounding area, Prato Piazza (Plätzwiese) is well worth a visit – a magnificent plateau at an altitude of 2,000 metres that offers spectacular panoramic views over some of the most famous peaks in the Dolomites, such as Picco di Vallandro (Dürrenstein), Croda Rossa (Hohe Geisel) and Monte Cristallo (Kristallspitze).

 

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Manuel Kottersteger
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Manuel Kottersteger

Access to Lake Braies

Access, parking and entrance fee

There’s no entrance fee to visit Lake Braies, but you do have to pay for transport or parking. In the summer months (usually from July to September), the lake road is closed to private vehicles during the day to protect the delicate ecosystem. Outside this period, there is generally free access.

To reach the lake, you can:

  • IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige
    Book parking online:

    This is the most convenient option if travelling by car. You must book and pay for your parking space in advance.

  • IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige
    Take the shuttle bus:

    Leaving from Monguelfo and Dobbiaco. It is also recommended to book your bus ticket online.

  • Camping at Lake Braies

    Wild camping is strictly prohibited throughout the nature park. To camp close to Lake Braies, you must use the designated areas in Pustertal Valley.

How to reach Lake Braies

Lake Braies is an extraordinarily beautiful place and extremely popular with tourists from all over the world. We recommend leaving your car at your accommodation and using the convenient public transport to get there. That way, you won’t have to worry about traffic or parking, and you’ll be able to make the most of your day.

  • IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige

    Getting there by public transport

    You can reach Lake Braies directly by taking the 442 bus from Dobbiaco/Villabassa. Public transport fares apply. From 11 September, Mobilcards, prepaid cards and the Südtirol Alto Adige Guest Pass will also be valid on the 442 bus. You can buy a Mobilcard at südtirolmobil ticket offices and at tourist offices. Bus tickets can also be purchased directly from the driver. Booking is not required.

     

  • Winter traffic regulations at Lake Braies

    After 11 September, online booking to access Prags Valley is not necessary. Lake Braies can be visited at any time. Paid parking is available at Lake Braies and at the Ponticello car park. Please note: parking spaces are limited and subject to a charge.

    In winter conditions (snow, slush or ice), all vehicles travelling on state and provincial roads in South Tyrol must be fitted with winter tyres or snow chains (or with equivalent approved equipment).

     

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Naturally beautiful

Shimmering water, fresh lake air, green Alpine pastures, imposing cliffs, Mediterranean towns – in South Tyrol, an all-round holiday package awaits you. Relax at the bathing lakes, marvel at the mountain massifs and enjoy a well-deserved aperitif in idyllic alleyways.

Kalterer See lake

Bathing Lakes & Outdoor Pools in South Tyrol

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