Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park Dolomites
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park boasts iconic lakes, dramatic peaks, and vast alpine meadows for unforgettable hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy crisp air
Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park Dolomites
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park boasts iconic lakes, dramatic peaks, and vast alpine meadows for unforgettable hikes.
"The Dolomites are truly the most beautiful place I have ever travelled to and could have easily spent a month there."
Book Parking Early! :car:
Secure your parking spot for Lago di Braies online in advance. It's essential and can be pricey .
Rent a Boat :rowboat:
A rowboat on Lago di Braies offers a unique perspective and unforgettable photos. Book ahead if possible!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lago di Braies
Braies
The iconic emerald lake, framed by dramatic peaks. Rent a rowboat for a magical experience.
Seceda Ridgeline
Val Gardena
Dramatic, jagged peaks offering panoramic views. A must-see for hikers and photographers.
Alpe di Siusi
Seiser Alm
Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow, perfect for leisurely walks and stunning vistas.
Val di Funes
Villnößtal
Charming valleys with iconic churches and rolling green hills against dramatic mountain backdrops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Parking in Advance
Embrace the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Parking Early! :car:
Secure your parking spot for Lago di Braies online in advance. It's essential and can be pricey.
Rent a Boat :rowboat:
A rowboat on Lago di Braies offers a unique perspective and unforgettable photos. Book ahead if possible!
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Hiking is key! Trails vary, so good footwear is a must for exploring the park's beauty.
Pack Layers :cloud:
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Parking Early! :car:
Secure your parking spot for Lago di Braies online in advance. It's essential and can be pricey.
Rent a Boat :rowboat:
A rowboat on Lago di Braies offers a unique perspective and unforgettable photos. Book ahead if possible!
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Hiking is key! Trails vary, so good footwear is a must for exploring the park's beauty.
Pack Layers :cloud:
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures.
Consider a Road Trip :motorway:
The Dolomites are best explored by car. Scenic drives connect many of the park's highlights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of Fanes-Sennes-Braies, particularly Lago di Braies and the dramatic mountain landscapes. Many highlight the joy of hiking and the unique experience of renting a rowboat. However, some find the park, especially Lago di Braies, to be overly crowded and expensive, with parking and food costs being significant drawbacks.
"It was so lovely and it would be great to bring a mat to enjoy the beautiful scenery!! There were some swimming people but looked a bit cold even it is July!! I didn’t know we needed to book the parking lot in advance. You need to check on the website and book it. I bought a parking ticket of P4, expensive but only available at that time, it is included 15€ voucher for drinks/foods. P4 was the nearest parking lot so it was convenient. When you buy the ticket you need to enter the plate number then automatically the gate is working."
HY Kim
"This is the closest stop coming down from Innsbruck. Buying a parking ticket in advance is highly recommended to secure the closest parking spot. Spare 2-3 hours there to get the most out of it, for the 55-Euro paddling and free trekking around the lake. The trail has various steep slopes. There is a bathroom at the other end of the lake."
Preeyakorn Palm
"Beautiful lake. Definitely worth renting a boat to row around. You get roughly an hour."
Jerry Lau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is best accessed by car, offering flexibility to explore its various attractions. Major nearby airports include Venice, Verona, and Innsbruck. From these cities, you can rent a car and drive to the park's entrances. Public transport options exist but are less convenient for reaching specific trailheads or viewpoints within the park.
While challenging, it's possible. Buses connect towns like Cortina d'Ampezzo and Dobbiaco to some park areas. However, to truly experience the vastness and hidden gems, a car is highly recommended for flexibility and reaching more remote spots.
Key access points include areas around Lago di Braies, San Vigilio di Marebbe, and Dobbiaco. Each offers different hiking opportunities and scenic routes.
Some areas, particularly around popular spots like Lago di Braies, may have limited shuttle services during peak season. It's best to check local information for current availability.
Driving is the most efficient. If relying on public transport, plan your routes carefully using local bus schedules, as connections can be infrequent.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the nature park itself is generally free. However, specific popular attractions, like the parking area for Lago di Braies, require advance booking and payment.
Parking at Lago di Braies can be expensive, often around €40 for the day, and must be booked online in advance. Some parking tickets include vouchers for food or drinks.
It is highly recommended to book parking for Lago di Braies well in advance, especially during peak season (summer and autumn weekends), as spots fill up quickly.
Most hiking trails within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park are free to access. Fees are typically associated with specific facilities like parking or cable cars.
The park is open year-round, but access to certain areas and facilities may be seasonal or weather-dependent. Lago di Braies parking access is controlled by booking times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Lago di Braies is a highlight, but don't miss the dramatic Seceda ridgeline, the vast Alpe di Siusi meadows, and the picturesque Val di Funes.
The park offers a wide range of hiking, from gentle lakeside strolls around Lago di Braies to challenging multi-day treks like the Alta Via 1.
Trails cater to all fitness levels.While the water is stunning, swimming in Lago di Braies is generally discouraged due to the cold temperature, even in summer. Some visitors do brave it for a quick dip.
Facilities vary. Lago di Braies has restrooms (some requiring cash payment) and cafes, but they can be crowded and expensive.
Pack snacks and water for longer hikes.Absolutely! The park is a photographer's paradise with its dramatic peaks, serene lakes, and vibrant alpine meadows. Golden hour is particularly magical.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find mountain huts (rifugi) offering traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, especially along hiking routes. Near Lago di Braies, there are cafes and restaurants, though they can be pricey.
Many rifugi offer hearty, simple dishes. While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, you can often find pasta, polenta, and vegetable sides. It's best to inquire directly.
Expect dishes like Speck (cured ham), Canederli (dumplings), Schlutzkrapfen (stuffed pasta), and Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake). Local cheeses and wines are also popular.
Yes, many scenic spots are perfect for a picnic. Bringing your own food and drinks is a great way to save money and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace.
Prices at mountain huts can be higher than in towns due to the logistics of supplying them. However, they offer a unique dining experience amidst stunning scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Lago di Braies is iconic, especially with its boathouse. Seceda's ridgeline offers dramatic shots, and Val di Funes provides classic alpine church vistas.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers the most dramatic light. Early mornings at Lago di Braies can provide fewer crowds and beautiful reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A tripod is useful for low light and long exposures, especially at sunrise/sunset.
Drone regulations can be strict in nature parks. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Fanes-Sennes-Braies.
Include foreground elements like trees, rocks, or people to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower vantage point can also emphasize the height of the mountains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lago di Braies: Tips and Tricks
Once you've secured your parking, you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake. The path is relatively flat and accessible, taking about an hour to complete. For a truly memorable experience, renting a traditional wooden rowboat is highly recommended. Gliding across the crystal-clear water with the Seekofel peak towering above is an unforgettable moment. While swimming is possible, be warned that the water is extremely cold, even in July.
Be aware that Lago di Braies can feel like a 'tourist trap' to some, with high prices for food and services, and the prevalence of 'Instagram-inspired' stone stacks. However, if you manage your expectations and plan ahead, the sheer natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings is undeniable and worth experiencing.
Hiking Adventures in Fanes-Sennes-Braies
For breathtaking panoramic views, the hike to Seceda is a must. This iconic ridgeline offers dramatic, jagged peaks that are a photographer's dream. Another popular area is Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow. It's perfect for leisurely walks amidst rolling green hills and wildflowers, with stunning views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks.
When planning your hikes, always check the weather forecast as mountain conditions can change rapidly. Wear sturdy hiking boots, carry plenty of water and snacks, and inform someone of your hiking plans. Many mountain huts (rifugi) are scattered throughout the park, offering refreshments and a place to rest.
Autumn's Embrace: Fall in the Dolomites
Hiking in autumn is particularly rewarding. The crisp air is invigorating, and the vibrant foliage provides a stunning backdrop for your adventures. Trails around Lago di Braies and through the valleys become even more picturesque. The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park is known for its unique geomorphology, including karst formations, which add an interesting dimension to the autumn landscape.
While the weather can be unpredictable, with potential for early snow, autumn generally offers clear, sunny days perfect for exploring. It's a fantastic time to visit if you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience with the Dolomites' natural beauty.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit