Lago di Braies Travel Guide

Everything about Lago di Braies, the heart of Dolomites

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What is it?

Lago di Braies, also known as Lake Braies or Pragser Wildsee, is a picturesque lake located in the Dolomites of northern Italy. This stunning alpine lake is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks and lush forests. It's a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hiking, boating, and photography.

One of the iconic features of Lago di Braies is its boat rental service, allowing visitors to paddle across the serene waters and take in the breathtaking scenery from a unique perspective. The lake is also the starting point for various hiking trails that offer different levels of difficulty and showcase the natural beauty of the Dolomites.

Lago di Braies has gained significant attention through its appearances in movies, TV shows, and social media, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque escape.

Where is it?

Lago di Braies is nestled in the heart of the Dolomites in northern Italy. More specifically, it's situated in the Braies Valley, in the South Tyrol region, within the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. This pristine lake is about 97 km (around 60 miles) northeast of Bolzano, the capital city of South Tyrol. The nearest town is Prags (Braies), which offers easy access to this stunning natural gem. Cortina d'Ampezzo, typically used as a travel base for visiting the lake, is located approximately 48 km (30 miles) away from Lago di Braies.

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When is the best time to go?

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The best time to visit the Dolomites largely depends on the activities you're interested in:

  • Summer (June to early October): This is the most popular time to visit, with warm, sunny weather ideal for hiking, paragliding, mountain biking, and exploring the stunning landscapes. The mountain huts and cable cars are also open during this period1.
  • Fall (September to November): The weather is still pleasant, and the vibrant autumn colors make for beautiful scenery. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors without the peak summer crowds1.
  • Winter (December to April): The Dolomites transform into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The region hosts several winter sports events, and the snow-covered peaks create a magical atmosphere1.
  • Spring (April to May): The weather starts to warm up, and the wildflowers begin to bloom, offering a different kind of natural beauty. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the fresh, mild weather1.

During our visit in early September, we enjoyed sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C at night to up to 30°C in the sun. The conditions were perfect for hiking, although the sun was very strong. We highly recommend using plenty of sunscreen.

How can i get there?

Getting to Lago di Braies is relatively straightforward, but it's important to plan ahead, especially during peak tourist season. Here are your options:

  1. By Car: The easiest way to reach Lago di Braies is by car. From Cortina d'Ampezzo, it's about a 1-hour drive (46 km). There are several parking lots near the lake, but note that from July 10 to September 10, vehicle restrictions are in place to reduce traffic. During this period, you'll need to park in designated areas and take a shuttle bus to the lake1.
  2. By Bus: If you prefer public transportation, you can take bus 442 from Toblach/Dobbiaco to Lago di Braies. During the vehicle restriction period, bus 439 runs from Welsberg/Monguelfo to Lago di Braies1. It's a good idea to check the bus schedules and book tickets in advance, especially in the summer months.
  3. By Train: You can take a train to major cities like Bolzano or Bressanone and then transfer to local buses or shuttles to reach Lago di Braies. Trains offer a scenic route through the mountains and are a great option if you want to enjoy the views.
A different side of Lago di Braies.

Where to stay?

We recommend staying in Cortina d'Ampezzo, a town located 48 km (30 miles) from the lake. It is commonly used as a base to explore the Dolomites due to its comprehensive infrastructure.

Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, but it is known to be a bit pricey. We stayed at Parc Hotel Victoria and had an amazing time. It's conveniently located near the town center and boasts excellent infrastructure. We highly recommend it.

What is there to do?

Here are some popular things to do:

  1. Hiking: There are several trails around the lake, including an easy walk around the lake that takes about an hour. The trail number 19 leads to the western shore of the lake2.
  2. Boat Rentals: You can rent rowboats to paddle on the lake. It's a serene way to experience the beauty of the lake1.
  3. Helicopter Tours: For a bird's eye view of the lake and surrounding Dolomites, you can take a helicopter tour. There are different options ranging from 15 to 45 minutes2.
  4. Picnicking: There are several spots around the lake where you can enjoy a picnic with a beautiful view.
  5. Visiting Nearby Villages: You can explore nearby villages like San Candido and Brunico, which offer charming architecture and local culture.
  6. Tasting Local Cuisine: Try the local specialties like Pragser Stange cheese at mountain huts and dairies.
  7. Winter Activities: In winter, you can admire the frozen lake and go for a walk along its icy surface.

Map of Lago di Braies

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Our Experience

We visited at the end of summer and had an amazing time.

We chose to take the bus from Cortina d'Ampezzo, it was pleasant and punctual.

As we entered the lake area, the views were simply stunning. The blue color of the lake contrasted beautifully with the towering mountains in the background. We walked around the lake and captured some incredible photos. Afterward, we found a perfect spot to sit and contemplate the beauty of the place.

Regarding the boat ride, we decided not to go because we found it a bit pricey. However, if that isn't an issue for you, I'm sure it would be an amazing experience.

Boats to rent at Lago di Braies.
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