Lake Prags in the Dolomites
Lake Braies, or Lake Prags in German, a jewel of legendary beauty, is nestled in the majestic landscapes of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park in the Dolomites. With its emerald green water, this lake is not only a breathtaking natural wonder, but also a favourite destination for visitors from all over the world.
Where is Lake Prags located?
The emerald green Lake Prags is located in the valley of the same name, the Prags Valley in the Dolomites, which branches off to the south between Niederdorf and Welsberg. Countless hikes to mountain pastures and huts, to the striking summit of Mt. Seekofel and the Dolomites Alpine Path no. 1 start directly at the Pragser Wildsee/Lake Prags lake.
Arrival & tickets
During the summer months, there are car park and traffic regulations for getting to Lake Prags. The lake can be reached at any time by bike and via the hiking trails in Prags.
The best accommodation in the area
Whether it is a hotel by Lake Prags, an apartment in one of the surrounding farms or a campsite in Hochpustertal – there are numerous options when choosing your accommodation. Your holiday at Lake Prags in Italy will be a unique experience.
Dolomite lake par excellence
Lake Prags in Hochpustertal is not called the "Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes" for nothing. The clear mountain waters, which are framed by steep rocky slopes and lie at the foot of the mighty Mt. Seekofel massif (2,810 m), blend picturesquely into the Dolomites landscape.
Bathing & water temperature
Situated at 1,496 metres above sea level, Lake Prags is approximately 31 hectares in size and has a maximum depth of 36 metres. The maximum water temperature on hot days is 14 °C. Is swimming allowed in the lake? Theoretically yes! Only a few people are allowed to jump into the cold water, and it can be quite dangerous.
The surrounding mountains and forests create a picturesque backdrop that adds to the mystical aura of the lake. Although it is known as South Tyrol's largest natural mountain lake, Lake Prags harbours countless secrets and stories waiting to be discovered.
A gem in the Dolomites
Ever since the railway ran through the Pustertal Valley, the lake has been a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, families and nature lovers. However, few people know that Lake Prags is the protagonist of an old Dolomites legend. According to the legend, the lake was the entrance to the underground part of the "Kingdom of Fanes", which was accessible from here by boat. This gate is said to have been buried in the meantime and is located at the foot of Mt. Seekofel. In Ladin, the summit is still called "Sas dla Porta" (gate mountain).
Lake Braies in summer
In the warmer months, numerous visitors circle the lake – the lake circuit is 4 kilometres long and can be completed in around 1 hour –, enjoy the sun on the shore or in a rowing boat or hike to the surrounding peaks.
Rowing boats & boat hire
If you visit Lake Prags in summer, you should definitely take a boat trip on one of the wooden rowing boats. These can be hired from "La Palafitta" boat hire.
Lake Prags in winter
The mountain lake is also popular in winter. If you don't want to improve your ice skating skills on the lake, you can go on wonderful snowshoe hikes and ski tours in the surrounding area.
Lake Prags in films & on TV
Since many years, Lake Prags has also become a famous setting for film and TV productions. For instance, the Italian TV series “Un passo dal cielo” (A step from heaven) with Terence Hill displays the lake in its most beautiful facets. Prags and the homonymous lake, Innichen, Mt. Kronplatz and the unique peaks of the Dolomites in the environs were chosen to take part of the series.
As well, the lake was also the location for the German film production “Burg Schreckenstein” and the war drama “The Silent Mountain” with William Moseley.