The Prags Valley in South Tyrol

Pragsertal – Natural gem in the Dolomites 🌄

Nestled in the majestic backdrop of the Dolomites lies the Braies Valley, a side valley of the Puster Valley. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’, it delights visitors with its unspoilt nature, breathtaking mountain panoramas and the famous Braies Wild Lake 🌊🛶🏔️ – one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in South Tyrol. The valley stretches from the village of Niederdorf deep into the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park 🌲🏔️ and offers visitors a landscape full of diversity: from gentle alpine meadows to rugged Dolomite peaks.

Exploring – hiking & being active

The Prags Valley offers numerous opportunities for exercise in every season:

🥾 Hiking: Circular routes such as the circuit around Lake Braies (approx. 1 hour) or the tour to the Seekofelhütte (2,327 m) are among the classics.
🚴‍♀️ Cycling: Mountain bikers appreciate the forest trails up to the alpine pastures, while e-bikers enjoy the support on longer distances.
👉 Tip: The tour from Schmieden to the Grünwaldalm (1,590 m) is particularly popular. The route leads through forests and meadows, is approx. 10 km long and offers fantastic views of the Pragser Dolomites.
❄️ Winter: In the snow, snowshoe hikes, ski tours or small toboggan runs await. The winter tranquillity around the frozen Wildsee lake is particularly charming.

Feel the history – culture & tradition

In the Braies Valley, you can still encounter the rural way of life in South Tyrol today. Old mountain farms characterise the landscape, and small chapels tell of deep religious devotion. The region belongs to the Ladin cultural area,🎶 where tradition and language have been preserved for centuries. The recent past also offers exciting stories: during the Second World War, the valley was the scene of historic events that are now commemorated by memorials and guided tours 🕯️.

💡 Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Pragsertal

How do I get to Lake Braies?

Lake Braies is located in the Braies Valley, accessible via Villabassa or Monguelfo in the Puster Valley.

🚗 By car: Access via the Braies road. In summer (July–September), the 🚧 road is closed during the day – you can only get there by shuttle bus, on foot or by bike.

🚌 By bus: Regular buses run directly to the lake from Niederdorf and Welsberg.

🚆 By train: Travel to Niederdorf or Welsberg, then continue by shuttle bus.

How long does the hike 🥾 around Lake Braies take?

The circular route is approx. 3.5 km long and takes about 1 hour at a leisurely pace.

✨ What are the highlights nearby?

There are a number of highlights around the Prags Valley that you can easily present as excursion destinations or additions to a trip. Here are the most important ones:

Plätzwiese (approx. 2,000 m) 🏔️🌿
A vast high plateau with panoramic views of the Dolomites. Perfect for hikes, leisurely walks or simply to take a deep breath.
Three Peaks ⛰️⭐
World-famous landmark of the Dolomites, accessible via Sesto or Misurina. Popular for hiking and photo spots.
Dürrensee 🌊🏞️
An idyllic mountain lake near Dobbiaco, located directly on the road to Lake Misurina – a great photo stop.
Pragser Hochalpengebiet 🐐🌲
Part of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park, with rustic huts, alpine pastures and wonderful hiking trails.
Lago di Dobbiaco (Lake Dobbiaco) 🌊🚣
A crystal-clear lake that is ideal for walks and easy hikes. You can also go boating here.
Three Peaks Nature Park House in Dobbiaco 🏞️🏡
Exciting exhibition on the natural and cultural history of the Dolomites – ideal in bad weather.
Kronplatz ⛷️🚠
South Tyrol's most famous ski mountain with a modern ski area in winter and a wide range of activities in summer (mountain bike trails, museums at the summit, 360° views).
Bruneck Old Town 🏘️☕
Charming small town with cosy alleys, cafés and museums – a beautiful contrast to the mountains.

Can you swim in Lake Braies 🏊‍♀️❄️?

Yes, you can swim in Lake Braies 🌊, but the water is freezing cold even in summer (12–14 °C). There is no official bathing beach, so it's more of an experience for the brave than for leisurely bathing.

📸 Many visitors therefore prefer to take a rowing boat trip 🛶 or a leisurely walk around the lake 🥾 to enjoy the special magic of the Wildsee.

Lake Braies[1/3]

Lady of Sorrows Chapel[2/3]

Lake Braies[3/3]

Finally out again, finally on holiday!