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.
"Enchanting place! 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. I can only say that God is really great in his creation of the world. There are many parking lots, but the price also depends on the distance. During high season, it's better to book online, because the parking lots are really full, it's really visited by many tourists. You can bring food and you can have a picnic near the lake, but just be mindful of your trash, throw it in the right place. There is also a restaurant there, if you don't want to bring food, but of course it's a bit pricey. If you can, you can also go trekking and there are many trails there that you can go through. We didn't do it because I have a small child, & we don't have the proper shoes for trekking, we just walked nearby. You can't swim in Lake Braies, but you can rent a boat to go around the lake. Visiting Lake Braies is really a great experience, so I encourage you to go with your family."
Roma Galang
"Amazing place, touristic but definitely worth to visit. We came here mid September so it was not packed with people. The lake is beautiful and you must hike around it. The path is around 3-4km and easy. Perfect activity with family. There is an option to rent a boat, i think it costs 50€/h if you want it by yourself or 15€/h with other 5 people. The parking is 15€ for 3h"
Amita Jakulevičiūtė
"Very amazing experience! The boat ride was also nice. Booked online parking spot at P4 parking one day before and it was a great decision. The walk on the lake was very scenic and summer season with cloudy covers made it the best time to visit!"
Prathamesh Kulkarni (PK)
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