Marta Chianale reveals to us a dream destination in the Dolomites: the Lake Braies
Situated in Val Pusteria (Puster Valley), inside the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, the Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee in German) is a stunning alpin lake near the town of Bolzano, in Trentino Alto-Adige, Northern Italy. Located 1.500 meters above the sea level and surrounded by dark green forests, the lake was originated by a landslide that blocked the river Braies, at the foot of the rock wall of Croda del Becco (2.810 meters).
An incredible landscape
In the summertime, the color of this beautiful body of water is a spectacular emerald green. Here, you can rent and sail an ancient boat to enjoy the unspoilt nature in a peaceful atmosphere. Swimming, fishing and canoeing are all suitable alternatives for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape is majestic even in the winter: indeed, the surface becomes solid ice, on which you can ice-skate and enjoy a really amazing experience.
In general, throughout the year, this place offers all kinds of outdoor activities, such as excursions, field trips, hiking and nature trails. It is also possible to do a round trip around the lake: the main route is on the western side and takes about one hour and half to walk around the entire perimeter. The Braies Lake is also the start point of the famous Alta Via no. 1 (Alpine Path no. 1) of the Dolomites, which traverses the mountain range at high altitudes for 150 kilometers, all the way to Belluno, in Veneto.
Escape mass tourism
This place is also famous for an historical fact. Indeed, in 1945, at the Pragser Wildsee Hotel located near the lake, some of the most influent German prisoners of war were released by the American troops. Finally, the lake was also the set of an Italian popular TV show ‘Un passo dal cielo‘, starring the famous actor Terence Hill. Fifty whole episodes of the series have been shot in the Valley of Braies. This made the lake even more famous but, although nowadays it is visited by people all over the world, here you can still escape mass tourism.
In conclusion, the lake also known as the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’, is definitelly worth the visit. You will be amazed by its beauty!
Practical info:
Boat rental from 10:00 to 17:00
Prices: 12 euros (30 minutes), 20 euros (1 hour)