After seven years of returning to the Dolomites, I finally made it to the famous Lago di Braies. A visit to one of the most picturesque locations in the Dolomites did not disappoint.
Lago di Braies, also known as Pragser Wildsee, is one of the most picturesque lakes in the Dolomites. Surrounded by majestic mountains, its turquoise waters delight visitors all year round.
Interesting facts about Lake Braies:
- Depth: the lake reaches a depth of up to 36 meters
- Origin: Lago di Braies was formed due to a natural barrier created by a glacier
- Water: The water in the lake is crystal clear and cold, as it is fed by mountain springs and melting snow.
- Legend: According to local legend, the lake is the entrance to the underworld of the kingdom of Fanes.
Walk around the lake
The circular path around the lake is varied and offers beautiful views of the surroundings. This walk is a must, wear hiking boots and a good foothold! The path climbs and descends, but is protected by a fence at all times, making it safe and suitable for small hikers. We started the walk on the left side, past the hotel and the pier where they rent boats.
Tip for an easier option: Start the walk on the right side of the hotel, where the path halfway to the lake is also suitable for strollers with large wheels, bicycles or pushchairs. The entire circuit around Lake Braies is more suitable for walking only or for children in baby carriers.
Walk to Malga Foresta
Halfway through the circular route, a wide gravel road branches off, leading to Malga Foresta. This additional hike only slightly extends the trip. A wide gravel road leads to the mountain pasture. We met cows along the way, which was especially interesting for the children. On the mountain pasture, we enjoyed excellent homemade yogurt with forest fruits (with a Dolomite price of €8.50), and they also offer other homemade food and drinks. In addition, Malga Foresta also has a playground for children, which makes the stop even more enjoyable (for parents and children!).
Playground time
The entire circuit around the lake and the path to the Foresta hut is a good 7 kilometers in total. At the end, by the church, there is a wonderful children's playground with a wooden ball. The ball costs 2 € and the children throw it down three wooden polygons. This ball can be a nice souvenir that you can take with you, as there are quite a few such playgrounds in the Dolomites, including at Cascate di Riva and La Crusc.
Practical tips
- Parking: Parking at Lago di Braies is chargeable, but campers can also stay overnight there
- Crowds: do the walk in the morning to avoid crowds
- Food: bring a snack and water, but you can also enjoy delicious food on the Foresta mountain or in the restaurants by the lake
Additional excursion: Rifugio Prato Piazza
If you are near Lago di Braies and have some energy left, I also recommend a trip to Rifugia Prato Piazza. The starting point for this trip is in the valley at the Ponticello (Brückele) parking lot, where you can leave your car. You can climb up to the Prato Piazza plateau on foot along a steep path, which takes about an hour to walk, or you can get to the plateau by bus or by car (you have to pay a toll, it is a mountain road similar to our Mangart road). We went up by bus (it runs every 30 minutes), and part of the team went on foot.
Prato Piazza is a high alpine plateau, located at an altitude of around 2,000 meters above sea level. Due to its altitude, it offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the mighty Croda Rossa mountain. The plateau is also part of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, which means that the area is protected and unspoilt. It is truly beautiful! You can walk to one of the huts on the plateau, such as Rifugio Prato Piazza or Rifugio Vallandro, where you can enjoy local specialties and wonderful views.
For more ideas on where to go in the Dolomites with kids, buy my guide Dolomites for Little Mountaineers . In it you will find detailed descriptions of hiking trails, travel tips, a list of equipment and attractions that you should not miss when visiting the Dolomites.