The Beauty of Lake Braies: A Hidden Gem in the Dolomites
Where Is Lake Braies?
Nestled in Val di Braies, a side valley of the Val Pusteria in Trentino-Alto Adige, Lake Braies is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Italian Alps. It is located within the territory of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park and was formed by a landslide from Sasso del Signore, which blocked a mountain stream.
The Allure of Lake Braies
With an area of just 0.31 km² (or 31 hectares), Lake Braies might be small, but it holds a special place among the Dolomite peaks. The lake’s emerald waters are particularly spectacular in the summer, contrasting with the surrounding rugged mountains like Croda del Becco at 2,810 meters.
How Deep Is Lake Braies?
Lake Braies reaches a maximum depth of 36 meters, making it one of the deepest lakes in South Tyrol. Swimming is prohibited here to protect its fragile habitat and ensure safety, as its waters can be quite cold, even during summer. In winter, the lake freezes over, becoming a snowy wonderland.
Activities at Lake Braies
Lake Braies lies at an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level, making it a popular destination for a variety of activities. Visitors can walk the simple route that circles the lake in just over an hour, suitable for families, although not entirely stroller-friendly. The lake is also ideal for rowing boat trips, available for rent on-site, and offers many hiking trails for different experience levels.
Exploring the Surroundings of Lake Braies
The Dolomites are a favorite destination for hikers and climbers, with numerous trails available, including the Alta Via n°1, which extends over 150 km and leads to Belluno. The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, established in 1980, spans 25,453 hectares and includes the striking Croda Rossa d’Ampezzo.
A notable site in the park is Forte Prato Piazza, an old Austrian fortification located at 2,040 meters, which offers stunning views of the valley. The Prato Piazza plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also offers cross-country ski trails and snowshoe routes during winter.
Braies and the TV Series “A Step from Heaven”
Lake Braies gained fame as a filming location for the TV series “A Step from Heaven”, starring Terence Hill. Fans can easily recognize the wooden stilt house from the series, which serves as a boat rental station during the summer. The forest station, featured in the show, is located between the Hotel Pragser Wildsee and the small lake church, making a visit here particularly exciting for fans.
Best Time to Visit Lake Braies
The summer season offers the most pleasant temperatures, longer daylight, and the possibility to rent a boat. However, this also brings more tourists, traffic, and higher accommodation prices. Late spring is a good compromise, though the weather can be unpredictable. In autumn, the foliage creates a beautiful, colorful landscape, and winter offers a special charm with frozen lakes and snow-covered landscapes.
How to Get to Lake Braies
Lake Braies is easily accessible from Bolzano by traveling towards Brixen and continuing through Bruneck on the SS49 of Val Pusteria towards San Candido. From Dobbiaco or Villabassa, visitors can take bus no. 422, which goes directly to the lake. In summer, there is also a shuttle service from Monguelfo to the lake.
Where to Park at Lake Braies
After passing San Vito, there are several paid parking lots close to the lake. During peak summer months, traffic to the lake is regulated. Visitors can leave their vehicles in a designated parking area and either use the shuttle service or continue on foot along path no. 1 for about 5 km.
