The best running trails around Prags - Braies

Lake Braies, also known as the "Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes" (Italian: Lago di Braies), is a stunning mountain lake in South Tyrol, Italy, nestled within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. It is located in the Pragser Valley (Alta Pusteria) in the Dolomites. The lake is located at approximately 1,494 to 1,496 meters above sea level. It is famous for its crystal-clear, emerald-green to turquoise-blue water. The color is created by the reflection of light off the finest limestone particles from the Dolomite rocks. It is framed by imposing mountain peaks, particularly the mighty Seekofel massif (2,810 m), which rises majestically on the southern shore. The lake was formed naturally by a mudslide or landslide that blocked the river's course, thus forming a natural dam.

Beautiful mountain lake in the Dolomites

The western shore of Lake Wildsee is the most easily accessible area for visitors of all ages. The well-developed section of the circular trail here allows for barrier-free strolls and child-friendly short excursions.

The southern shore of Lake Braies is dominated by the steep rock faces of the Seekofel, creating a particularly wild and impressive landscape. According to legend, a gateway to the underworld was said to have been located at the southern end of Lake Braies, where the mighty Seekofel towers 2,810 meters above the water. From here, according to legend, one could take a boat into the mysterious realm of the Fanes.

In contrast to the flatter and easily accessible west shore, the eastern shore reveals its wilder side. The narrow path runs directly along the foot of the steep rock faces, requiring crossing stairs and wooden walkways in places. It is precisely this natural, somewhat more inaccessible nature that makes the eastern shore so appealing: It appears quieter, more pristine, and offers impressive views across the water to the opposite shore and the surrounding Dolomite peaks. Those who walk around the lake will experience the most dramatic scenery here, as the steep slopes of the Seekofel mountain seem to rise directly from the water.

Lake Braies (Italian: Lago di Braies) lies at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters in the Prags Valley, a side valley of the Puster Valley. It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the region and is often called the "Pearl of the Dolomites" due to its clear, emerald green to turquoise-blue shimmering water. Surrounded by steep rock faces and dense forests, the lake offers an impressive natural backdrop and is one of the most photographed motifs in South Tyrol. It is approximately 1.2 kilometers long, up to 36 meters deep, and can be circumnavigated on foot in about an hour on a scenic circular path. Excursions in traditional wooden rowboats are particularly popular in summer, lending the lake a romantic character. In addition to its scenic beauty, the lake also has historical significance, as it was the scene of a liberation of concentration camp prisoners during World War II. An information panel about this is located at the entrance to the Chapel of St. Mary.

The view of Lago di Braies, nestled in the Dolomites and dominated by the striking Seekofel peak, is one of the most famous panoramas in South Tyrol. Especially when the water surface is calm, the emerald-green lake reflects the surrounding peaks and forests, making it a popular photo subject. The classic postcard view is captured at the boat rental with its wooden jetty, but the approximately four-kilometer circular path around the lake offers many other, often more tranquil perspectives. For particularly impressive atmospheres, a visit in the early morning hours is worthwhile, when the light is soft and the water's surface is smooth as glass. Those seeking an even larger panorama can take more challenging hiking trails to the Seekofel Hut or climb to the summit and experience the lake from a bird's eye view.

Wonderful view, it is one of the largest parks in South Tyrol.