A tip from VIVODolomites: the Lake Braies circular route
The tour around Lago di Braies / Lake Braies is a hiking pleasure for young and old alike and requires no special conditions. It can be done either clockwise or anti-clockwise, as described below. From the Lake Braies hotel, follow a wide path along the lakeshore, past the small chapel to the turn-off to Grünwaldtal. The way so far is also suitable for pushchairs. Once at the southern shore of the lake, you can relax on a small meadow on the shore. Now the trail narrows slightly and leads over steps close to the cliff over the eastern shore of the lake to the starting point at the Lake Braies hotel, which you should reach after walking for about 1.5 hours.
Recommended hotels & accommodation near Lake Braies
To all accommodation
Your Dolomites travel inspiration
Receive handpicked tips, hidden spots, hotel recommendations, and seasonal ideas for your next trip to the Dolomites.
Frequently asked questions about Lake Braies
Is Lake Braies worth visiting?
Yes, it is well worth a visit – Lago di Braies is rightly considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites, with turquoise-green waters, the Croda del Becco rising behind it, a scenic trail around the lake and rowing boats available in summer. Lago di Braies is also well known as a film location.
How do you get to Lake Braies?
Outside the peak season (1 July–15 September), you can also drive to Lago di Braies and park nearby, with the lake just a maximum five-minute walk away; parking is available for a fee. During this period, the road is only open to private vehicles with a reserved parking space. Parking spaces can be reserved and paid for online - here. Lago di Braies can be reached on foot or by bike at any time, without restrictions. Another option is to take a public bus from Monguelfo or Villabassa/Dobbiaco. However, you must also reserve and pay for your round-trip ticket online in advance, otherwise access is not possible. Make a reservation.
How long does it take to walk around Lake Braies?
The circular walk around Lago di Braies starts directly at the Hotel Lago di Braies, following the wide path along the right-hand shore of the lake. The full circuit takes around 1–1.5 hours, excluding longer stops, for example along the southern shore of the lake.
How hard is the Lago di Braies hike?
The circular hike is an easy hike. The first part, up to the southern shore of the lake, is even suitable for prams. The second part involves going up steps close to the rock face, but these are also easy to manage.
Can you swim in Lake Braies?
No, Lago di Braies is not an officially designated swimming lake. The water temperature in the mountain lake is simply too cold for that.
What is the closest city to Lake Braies?
If you really mean a “city”, then the answer is Brunico. From there it’s about 30 km to the lake. The nearby hamlets of San Vito and Ferrara, both part of the municipality of Braies, are located close to the lake.
What is the best time of day to visit Lake Braies?
Early morning, just after sunrise, is the best time to visit: the water is usually mirror-still, the light is soft and the crowds have yet to arrive – in summer, the lake becomes busy rapidly from late morning onwards. Late afternoon or early evening (after 5 pm) is another good option: the light is atmospheric again, and most day-trippers have already left.
What is the latest recommended time to arrive at Lago di Braies?
There is no officially set “latest arrival time” – the lake is freely accessible all year round. However, if you want to walk around the lake and enjoy it, you should arrive at least 2-3 hours before sunset.
Interesting topics, just for you