Lake Braies
Why visit Lake Braies the first time?
Review by Baldassarri Giuseppe
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Lake Braies, also known as Lago di Braies, is a picturesque alpine lake located in the Dolomites of northern Italy. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, it offers a serene and tranquil setting. Here's an itinerary to help you explore Lake Braies and enjoy the local attractions, food, and wine specialties:
Day 1: Arrival and Lake Braies Exploration
- Fly into the nearest airport, which is usually Innsbruck Airport in Austria or Venice Marco Polo Airport in Italy, depending on your travel plans.
- Rent a car or take a combination of public transportation (trains and buses) to reach the village of Braies (Prags), which is located near Lake Braies.
- Check into your accommodation in Braies and spend the afternoon exploring the lake. You can rent a rowboat and leisurely paddle across the crystal-clear waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake's shores, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
- In the evening, dine at a local restaurant in Braies and savor some traditional South Tyrolean cuisine. Popular dishes include Schlutzkrapfen (spinach and ricotta-filled pasta), Speckknödel (bacon dumplings), and apple strudel.
Day 2: Nature Trails and Cultural Exploration
- Start your day with a hike in the Braies Valley. There are several well-marked hiking trails that allow you to explore the pristine alpine landscapes. One popular route is the Prato Piazza hike, which offers panoramic views of the Dolomites.
- After your hike, visit the Visitor Center in Braies to learn more about the natural and cultural history of the region. The center provides information about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.
- In the afternoon, take a short drive to the nearby village of San Candido (Innichen) and explore its charming streets, historic buildings, and local shops.
- Return to Braies for dinner and enjoy more South Tyrolean specialties paired with regional wines.
Day 3: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time in the morning to further explore Lake Braies or do some souvenir shopping.
- Depart for your next destination, either by car or public transportation, based on your travel plans.
For an ideal itinerary, plan to spend at least 2-3 days in the Lake Braies area. This will give you enough time to fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, embark on a hike, and explore the nearby cultural attractions. However, if you have more time, you can extend your stay to explore other nearby lakes, valleys, and towns in the Dolomites.
In terms of accommodations, there are a few options in Braies, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
When visiting the region, you should also consider tasting the local specialties. South Tyrolean cuisine combines Austrian and Italian influences. Apart from the dishes mentioned earlier, you can also try local cheeses like Stelvio or Pustertaler, and sample wines from the Alto Adige region, such as Lagrein, Gewürztraminer, and Vernatsch.
Remember to check the weather conditions and trail accessibility before your visit, as they can be influenced by the season and weather conditions.
Enjoy your trip to the enchanting Lake Braies and its surrounding landscapes!
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Tour of Lake Braies and itinerary to discover the attractions and local food and wine specialties to taste, how to get there, where to stay in Italy, How many days should the itinerary be?
