One of Italy’s most picturesque lakes! Lake Braies is simply a must visit!

Italy is one of those countries that can boast of the multitude of lakes it possesses. There are over 1,000 of them, both large and well-known, as well as smaller ones about which hardly anything is known. Each lake is special in its own way, but Lake Braies is truly one of those lakes that take your breath away in every way and which every Italian, as well as a tourist, wants to visit.

Located in the very north of Italy in the embrace of the rugged Dolomites, specifically the Braies Valley, Lake Braies is nicknamed the Pearl of the Dolomite Alps for a reason.

Lake Braies, Photo: oneinchpunch, Depositphotos

Spreading over an area of ​​31 hectares and at an altitude of more than 1,400 meters above sea level, Lake Braies is a natural lake that lies at the foot of the Seekofel rock. About 400 meters wide and 1.2 kilometers long, this picturesque mountain lake has a maximum depth of 36 meters and an average temperature of 15°C. In summer, the water temperature reaches up to 20°C.

Beautiful at any time of the year, Braies takes on an emerald green color due to the nature that surrounds it.

Lake Braies, Photo: Alessandro.Spinello, CC BY-SA 4.0

Over the centuries, it changed its name, so even today it is known under the names Pragser Wildsee, Lake Prags, and Braies, while its official Italian name is Lago di Braies.

Nature and various activities such as swimming for the bravest, and winter sports such as curling, walking, and boating attract large numbers of tourists eager for adventure to this lake every year.

The Italian series Un passo dal cielo and the documentary Hostages of SS were also filmed on the lake.

Lake Braies can be reached very easily, by road and from the north side from the direction of the town of Brunico/ Bruneck. Take into account that due to its great popularity and availability by vehicle, access to the lake is controlled, so in the strongest seasonal months, you will have to plan your arrival in advance and reserve parking.

The price of parking is 38 euros for cars and 25 euros for motorcycles. For those who want to stay longer, there is Hotel Lago di Braies.