Boathouse

LAKE BRAIES

Locally referred to as the Pearl of the Dolomites, Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its emerald waters, endearing boat house, fragrant spruce pines forests and towering limestone peaks.

Nestled between mountains and forest in Pusteria Valley in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, Lake Braies offers the most breath-taking views. It boasts 31 hectares and is located at an altitude of 1,500m above sea level. The lake, with an average depth of 17 m, measures 36 m at its lowest point and is the ultimate attraction for recreation seekers, nature lovers and hikers, in both summer and winter. It is highly recommended for people of all ages as well as for couples, families and solo explorers.

Legend has it that the gateway to the underground kingdom of Fanes (whose people are the original inhabitants of the Dolomites) is at the south end of the lake below the Croda del Becco (Seekofel Mountain) which could only be reached by boat. In modern times, due to the Italian TV series Un passo da cielo the lake has only become more popular, attracting the attention of domestic and international tourists alike.


Boats
Walking path

Coordinates:
46°41'39.5"N 12°5'7.4"E

How to get there:
The easiest way to get here is by car but public transport is also available. From Bolzano you can take the train to Villabassa (Niederdorf) and from there catch the local bus 442 to the lake for €3. Please note that the local bus only runs seasonally from June 20th to September 20th.



Tips & friendly reminders
  • The lake can be visited all year round, expect highs of 20 in the summer and lows of -10 in the winter.
  • The 3.2km path around the lake takes around 1.5-2hrs to complete and offers spectacular scenery.
  • From May to October you can rent a boat to share with others from the local wooden cabin for 30mins (€15). Alternatively, you can have the boat all to yourself (€50). If you are interested in a private boat sunrise photoshoot, personal photographers are available but they cannot be reserved more than 4 days in advance. For the more adventurous, e-bikes are available to rent for the day (€69) which include a 30min shared boat ride.
  • If you would like to use a drone in the area, you must request a permit from the administrative office of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park.
  • If you would like to spend the night in this magical place, Hotel Lago di Braies is situated almost directly on the shore of the lake. Booking is recommended 2-3 months in advance. The hotel has a parking if you plan to come by car. If you are looking for a less expensive opton, Hotel Tenker is only 5 minutes by car from the lake.
Hotel Lago di Braies