Exploring the Stunning Lago Di Braies in the Italian Dolomites: Suggestions for Your Visit!
Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Northern Italy, offers a serene and picturesque experience for visitors. With its emerald-clear waters and stunning mountain reflections, this mountain lake is a must-visit destination.
Getting There ---------------
The journey to Lago di Braies is an enjoyable one. By car, it's approximately 377 km (5 hours) from Milan, and 207 km (3 hours) from Venice. For those seeking the best deals on rental cars, Discover Cars is highly recommended for booking a vehicle in Italy. The closest city to Braies is Bolzano, Italy.
For those travelling from further afield, the distance from the Austrian border is just 29 km (30 minutes) by car, and from Verona, it's 252 km (3 hours) by car.
Accessibility and Parking ---------------------------
Lago di Braies is a popular destination, especially during high season. It's strongly advised to arrive early—preferably before 9 or 10 AM—to secure parking and avoid large crowds. In peak season, a shuttle bus service operates as parking is limited. Public transport options exist but are less frequent, so it's essential to check schedules in advance.
Parking at Lago di Braies is free for the first hour, then €8 EUR per day.
Exploring Lago di Braies -------------------------
Boat Rental -----------
Renting a rowboat at Lago di Braies is a highly recommended activity to fully enjoy the lake's beauty. Rowboats can be rented from the boathouse located by the northern shore of the lake. It's best to rent a boat early in the day (around sunrise if possible) to avoid crowds and have a peaceful experience on the water. Plan about 45 minutes for boating around the lake.
Hiking Trails -------------
There is a scenic circular hiking trail around Lago di Braies that covers approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles). The loop is relatively easy and offers numerous viewpoints to admire the lake and surrounding Dolomites. Walking the loop takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an ideal complement to your boat trip. Along the way, you can visit a small chapel by the lake and take plenty of photos of perfect reflections.
Additional Activities ---------------------
Nearby lakes like Lago di Dobbiaco and Lago di Misurina are great alternatives or extensions to your day trip. Facilities at the lake include a small restaurant and accommodation options around the shore.
By combining boating, hiking, and early arrival for easy parking or shuttle use, you can enjoy a serene, picturesque experience at Lago di Braies in the Italian Dolomites.
Additional Tips ---------------
- Allocate around 3 hours total to rent a boat and walk the loop comfortably. - For travel insurance, SafetyWing offers affordable coverage while abroad.
Lago di Braies is part of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies nature park and boasts a small chapel on the West side of the lake, built in 1904. With its stunning beauty and numerous activities, Lago di Braies is an unmissable destination for any traveller seeking a memorable Italian adventure.
Embarking on a boat rental at Lago di Braies early in the day allows for a serene experience, preferably around sunrise. This peaceful rowboat journey complements the scenic circular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding Dolomites.
After exploring Lago di Braies, nearby lakes like Lago di Dobbiaco and Lago di Misurina provide great alternatives for a memorable Italian adventure. These additional activities, combined with travel insurance from SafetyWing, make for an unforgettable home-and-garden and travel lifestyle in the beautiful Italian Dolomites.
