Braies Valley Farm
A jewel of the Dolomites, Lake Braies enchants with its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain vistas, offering serene walks and boat rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere & clear photos
Braies Valley Farm
Best Time
Tranquil atmosphere & clear photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A jewel of the Dolomites, Lake Braies enchants with its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain vistas, offering serene walks and boat rides.
"It's really better to go and see it in person. I don't know what other words I can use to describe this place."
🚗 Book Parking Early!
Essential for July-Sept visits. Book online days ahead or risk no entry. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For the scenic loop walk and potential nearby trekking. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Lake View
Lakeshore
Experience the surreal turquoise waters and dramatic Dolomite backdrop. Unfiltered beauty!
Boat Rentals
Lakeshore
Glide across the pristine water in a traditional wooden rowboat for a magical perspective.
Lakeside Loop Walk
Around the lake
An easy 3-3.5km stroll offering breathtaking views from every angle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Parking & Tickets in Advance
Best Time to Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Early!
Essential for July-Sept visits. Book online days ahead or risk no entry. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For the scenic loop walk and potential nearby trekking. :athletic_shoe:
Exploring amazing Val di Funes on the Adolf Munkel trail - Hiking in Dolomites, Italy
🧺 Picnic by the Lake
Bring your own food & drinks, but please pack out all trash. :picnic_table:
📸 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for pristine shots of the turquoise water. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Early!
Essential for July-Sept visits. Book online days ahead or risk no entry. :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For the scenic loop walk and potential nearby trekking. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic by the Lake
Bring your own food & drinks, but please pack out all trash. :picnic_table:
📸 Go Early for Photos
Beat the crowds for pristine shots of the turquoise water. :camerawithflash:
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Enjoy the views from the shore or a boat, but swimming is prohibited. :no_swimming:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking, almost surreal beauty of Lake Braies, with its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning Dolomite backdrop. The scenic loop walk and boat rentals are highly recommended. However, be prepared for significant crowds during peak season, and booking parking well in advance is essential.
"The most beautiful lake. Option to rent boats from 10am. The walking loop around the outside is very easy. The first stretch going anti-clockwise is incredibly accessible with lots of dogs. If you go clockwise, it’s a bit more of a hike with stairs up and down, but very easy. The entire walk has incredible views"
Holly
"I loved this place, that was so beautiful.
There are parking there, I really recommend you buy your ticket before go there, because can be you didn’t find this option available.
You can have many moments alone or with your family, there are some table for you have meal and take photos.
You need to buy a ticket if you would like to go in the lake with a boat, that option is available on time when you arrive (normally)"
Tiago Moretti
"Another overrated place in Italy that, thanks to those empty headed influencers, I now place on the same level as Positano.
You can literally find many lakes in Italy (and Switzerland, Austria, etc) with the same color water and no crowds. Why on earth would you come here other that because of FOMO.
Parking is expensive too (I think it was $10 for an hour on P1, so consider instead parking on P2 for a longer walk but half the price). During the summer there's an online reservation system.
If you want to see the alpine colors you see in Instagram pictures you'll have to come when the sun hits the lake directly, so around noon in the Fall and Winter."
Diego Gorgazzi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, but parking must be booked in advance during peak season (July-September). Alternatively, shuttle buses operate from nearby towns like Dobbiaco or Villabassa, offering a convenient option if you can't secure parking.
Yes, public buses run to Lake Braies, especially during the summer months. Check local schedules for routes from Bolzano or other nearby towns.
Several parking lots (P1-P4) are available, with prices varying based on distance. Booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially from July to September.
Absolutely! Shuttle buses are a great alternative to driving. You can also consider cycling to the lake if you're an avid cyclist, as there are scenic routes in the area.
Arriving very early in the morning, before 9 AM, is the best strategy to avoid traffic and crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there's no entrance fee for the lake itself, you must book parking in advance during peak season (July-September).
Parking fees vary, typically around €15-€18 for a few hours, with higher rates for longer stays. Booking online is advised.
Yes, parking reservations are mandatory for July, August, and September. Book your spot online well in advance.
Lake Braies is accessible year-round, but facilities like boat rentals and restaurants have seasonal hours. The natural beauty is always available.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food for a picnic. Just remember to be respectful of the environment and dispose of your trash properly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a scenic walk around the lake, rent a rowboat, take photos, and have a picnic. Nearby trekking trails are also available.
No, swimming is not permitted in Lake Braies to preserve its pristine condition.
The loop walk around the lake is approximately 3-3.5 kilometers and takes about 1-1.5 hours at a leisurely pace.
Boat rentals can be around €50 per hour for a private boat, or you can share with others for about €15 per hour.
Yes, it's a great destination for families. The loop walk is easy, and the stunning scenery is enjoyable for all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant near the lake offering meals, but it can be a bit pricey.
Besides the lakeside restaurant, you can find more options in nearby villages like San Candido or Dobbiaco.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food for a picnic is a popular and enjoyable option. Just be sure to clean up after yourself.
The restaurant typically serves local South Tyrolean cuisine, including pasta, regional specialties, and desserts.
The on-site restaurant is generally considered pricey due to its prime location. Packing a picnic is a more budget-friendly choice.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers the best light and fewest people for stunning, clear shots. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant blue of the water.
The entire loop walk offers fantastic photo opportunities. The iconic view from the boathouse is a must-capture.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas to preserve the environment and visitor experience. Check local regulations.
The incredibly vibrant turquoise water, framed by the dramatic Dolomite peaks and lush pine forests, creates a truly unique and photogenic landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Access
For those who prefer not to drive, public transport options are available, with buses running to the lake. Cycling is also an option for the more adventurous, with scenic routes leading to the valley.
The key takeaway is to plan ahead, especially for parking, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this stunning location. Experiencing the Lake's Magic
A must-do activity is the easy loop walk around the lake, which takes about 1-1.5 hours. This 3-3.5 km path provides constantly changing, spectacular views from every angle.
Best Times for Photography
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, like mid-September, when the crowds thin out, and the autumn colors might start to appear, adding another layer of beauty to your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit