The Lago di Braies loop is one of the easiest and most rewarding walks in the Dolomites. It circles what is probably the most photographed alpine lake in Italy, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Dolomites". A nearly flat 3.5 km path hugs the emerald shore, and the view of the imposing Croda del Becco reflected in the water keeps shifting as you go.
The colour of the lake runs from emerald green to deep turquoise, changing with the light and the season as snowmelt feeds it. The famous wooden jetty with its rowing boats on the northern shore is the iconic shot of Lago di Braies, one of the most shared photos in the entire Dolomites.
The route really does suit everyone: families, older walkers and, on the first stretch, even pushchairs, with no real difficulty or climbing. Its fame comes at a price, though. In high season car access is capped by timed quotas during the middle of the day, and the northern shore gets very crowded.
How to get there — Parcheggio Lago di Braies (1.494 m)
You reach Lago di Braies from Monguelfo in Val Pusteria, driving up Val di Braies to the paid car park in front of the historic hotel. From mid-July to mid-September, during the day (roughly 9:30–16:00), car access is quota-controlled and needs booking ahead, so it is better to take the local bus from Val Pusteria or arrive before 9 am. Always check this year's access rules.
The trailhead is in the Val Pusteria e Lago di Braies area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Western shore and the boat jetty
From the car park follow the shore path past the famous wooden jetty and boat-hire point, on a comfortable, level trail.
2. Head of the lake and eastern shore
Reach the far end of the lake at the foot of the Croda del Becco, then come back along the opposite shore, which is wilder and more shaded.
When to go & weather
You can walk the lake from May to October. In winter it freezes into a wonderfully atmospheric sheet of ice. The water colour peaks between June and July. To dodge the crowds, go at first light or late afternoon, when the light is also far better for photos. Autumn brings golden larches on the slopes around the shore.
Recommended gear
- Comfortable walking shoes or light trekking footwear
- A light jacket (it can be cool by the water even in summer)
- Camera
- Cash for the car park and rowing-boat hire
Useful tips
- Arrive at dawn. The lake is empty, the water mirror-still and the light perfect for photos
- Book a wooden rowing boat in the summer months (hourly rate)
- In high season take the bus instead of the car, because of the quota-controlled access
- Carry on past the loop into Val di Foses if you want a longer hike
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Lago di Braies by car?
In high season road access is quota-controlled during the middle of the day. Arrive before 9 am or take the local bus. Check this year's access rules before you visit.
Can you hire a rowing boat on Lago di Braies?
Yes. You can hire traditional wooden rowing boats in the summer months at the jetty near the hotel, charged by the hour.
How long does the Lago di Braies loop take?
The full circuit is about 3.5 km and takes 60–90 minutes at a relaxed pace with photo stops. The northern shore is the easiest and most accessible. The opposite side is wilder and more shaded.
Can you swim in Lago di Braies?
People do not swim here. The water is ice-cold year-round and the site is protected. You stick to the lakeside walk, photos and rowing-boat trips.