Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee, is a stunning alpine lake located in the Dolomites of South Tyrol, Italy. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its perfect destination for day trip. 

Day Trip to Lago di Braies

By Car

• From Bolzano (Bozen): ~1.5 hours (100 km) via A22 and SS49
• From Cortina d’Ampezzo: ~1 hour (50 km) via SR48 and SS51
• From Innsbruck, Austria: ~2 hours (120 km) via A13/A22

By Public Transport

• From Bolzano or Innsbruck: Take a train to Villabassa/Niederdorf or Dobbiaco/Toblach and then a bus (line 442) to the lake.
• From Cortina d’Ampezzo: Bus 445 to Dobbiaco, then bus 442 to Lago di Braies.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–September): Ideal for hiking & boat rentals but very crowded.
• Fall (October): Beautiful colors and fewer crowds.
• Winter (December–March): Frozen lake & snow-covered scenery—great for photography and snowshoeing!

What to Do in Lago di Braies

– Hike Around the Lake

There’s a well-maintained trail that loops around the lake, offering breathtaking views from all angles. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. While part of the trail is stroller-friendly (you won’t be able to go all the way around the lake), a carrier is recommended for small children.

– Boat Rides

You can rent a rowboat to explore the lake up close, experiencing its serene beauty and clear waters. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis and are available from late May to early November.

Capacity: Maximum of 5 people per boat. Dogs are only allowed on private boats. That means that you need to book a whole boat for yourself.

Prices:

45 minutes (Private Boat Experience): €50

45 minutes (Shared Boat Experience): €15 per person

– Hiking Seekofel/ Croda del Becco

For those looking for more adventure, the hike up to Seekofel is a rewarding challenge. The trail is steep and can be strenuous, but the panoramic views from the top are spectacular.

Start: Lago di Braies (1,494 m)
Distance: ~10 km round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,300 m
Time: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging (steep, some scrambling)

Route:

1. Follow trail No. 1 around the lake, then steep switchbacks through the forest.
2. Reach Rifugio Biella (2,327 m) in ~3 hours—great for a break.
3. Final ascent: Steep, rocky climb to Seekofel summit (2,810 m).
4. Descend the same way or via Malga Foresta for a loop.

– Photography

Lago di Braies is incredibly photogenic, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The reflections of the mountains in the calm water make for stunning photographs. Also the water is especially vibrant in the sunlight.

Where to Stay in Lago di Braies

Lago di Braies is a beautiful destination with several accommodation options that cater to various preferences and budgets. Here are some notable places to stay:

Hotel Lago di Braies (Hotel Pragser Wildsee):

This historic hotel is located right on the shores of the lake, offering stunning views and direct access to the water. It’s the same hotel where the World War II prisoners were held.

Amenities: Traditional alpine decor, restaurant, terrace with lake views, hiking and boating opportunities.

Hotel Trenker:

Situated a few kilometers away from the lake, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to Lago di Braies and surrounding attractions.

Amenities: Spa and wellness center, restaurant, bicycle rentals, guided tours.

Gasthof Huber:

A charming guesthouse located in Braies, offering a cozy and authentic Tyrolean experience.

Amenities: Restaurant serving local cuisine, free parking, close proximity to hiking trails.

Gstattlhof:

A farm stay option that provides a unique and rustic experience, perfect for those who enjoy nature and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Amenities: Homemade products, pet-friendly, playground for children, scenic views.

Camping Olympia:

If you prefer camping, Camping Olympia offers a great campsite with modern facilities not too far from Lago di Braies.

Amenities: Campsite pitches, mobile homes, swimming pool, restaurant, playground, and various outdoor activities.

It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best options for your stay.

Parking Explained

Low Season

(Before July 10th and After September 10th)

There are no driving restrictions in Pragser Tal Valley, allowing you to drive directly to the car parks  near Lago di Braies.

High Season

(July 10th – September 10th)

Driving Restrictions from 9:30 am to 4 pm, that means that you can either drive to Lago di Braies before 9:30 am or after 4 pm or access by public transportation, on foot, by bicycle, or with an online reservation or valid transit permit.

Tip: If you plan to visit between 9:30 am and 4 pm during high season, pre-book your parking.

Available parking lots (each operated by different party)

– P4 Car Park

200 meters from the lakeshore

Fees: First 15 minutes free; €10 for 3 hours (6 am – 5 pm); €0.80 per additional 30 minutes; maximum daily rate €15

Payment: Pay at “Kasse/Cassa” machine (cash or debit card); credit card payments inside Hotel Lago di Braies; lost ticket fee €50

Pre-Booking: Available from July on pragsparking.com. Fee – 38 EUR. This includes passage to the car park (anytime of day), a reserved parking spot, and a 15 EUR voucher, which you can redeem at Emma’s Bistro, or the Panorama Restaurant & Chalet.

– P3 Car Park

500 meters from the lakeshore

Fees: €7 for the entire day

Payment: Cash only, collected by an attendant

Pre-Booking: Available on parking.speckstube-eggerhof.it. Fee – 7 EUR for a whole day.

– P2 Car Park

800 meters from the lakeshore

Fees: €6 for cars, €2 for motorbikes, €12 for buses, €9 for campers

Payment: Pay at the ticket machine next to the kiosk (coins or card; bring coins in case the card machine doesn’t work)

Pre-Booking: Available on prags.bz

– P1 Car Park (Säge/Segheria)

5.5 km from the lake

Fees: Parking and shuttle fees

Pre-Booking: Available on prags.bz

Note: Use only if no other options are available during high season

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