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Park · Cortina d'Ampezzo, Vêneto
Lago di Braies
Alpine lake with green water at 1.496 metres, at the foot of the Croda del Becco wall in Alto Adige, with a trail around it, rowboats in season and limited car access at the height of summer.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies, Pragser Wildsee in German, lies in a side valley of the Val Pusteria in Alto Adige, about 50 km from Cortina. It sits at 1.496 metres, beneath the Croda del Becco which reaches 2.810 metres and is reflected in the green water. It formed when a landslide dammed the river. It is about 1.2 km long and up to 36 metres deep.
A roughly 3.5 km trail circles the lake and takes about 1h30 to 2 hours. The side with the boathouse and the hotel is wide and flat; the side under the Croda del Becco is narrower, with steps. In season you can rent rowboats at the wooden jetty. The lake is also the starting point of the Alta Via 1, the multi-day route that crosses the Dolomites.
At the end of World War II, in April 1945, the lakeside hotel received prisoners brought by the SS, including European politicians, who were freed there.
At the height of summer, generally from July to September, the road closes to private traffic at midday unless you have a reserved parking spot; buses run from Dobbiaco and Villabassa.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours, including the circuit around the lake.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the water is calmer and there are fewer people. June, September and October are usually quieter than July and August. In winter the lake freezes.
How to get there
From Cortina, about 50 km via Dobbiaco and Val di Braies. By bus, line 442 from Dobbiaco and Villabassa; the nearest train station is Villabassa, on the Val Pusteria line. At the height of summer, drivers must book parking online or arrive outside the restricted hours.
Tip
Start the circuit on the hotel side and save the section beneath the Croda del Becco for last, with the light behind you. Check the current access rules beforehand, as they change with the season.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lago di Braies
Do you need a reservation to go to Lago di Braies?
At the height of summer, generally July to September, yes for those coming by car at midday, and also for buses. Outside that period access is free. Check the rules for the year.
How long does the walk around the lake take?
About 1.5 to 2 hours, over a 3.5 km trail, with a stretch of steps on the north side.
Can you go boating on the lake?
In season, yes—rowboats are rented at the pier. There is no reservation: arrive early in the busiest months.
Is Lago di Braies in Cortina?
No. It is in Alto Adige, about 50 km from Cortina, but it is a common day trip from there.