Lake Braies, Prags Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy

© Daniel Dickman/Getty Image

Lake Braies, Italy

Considered by many to be one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Braies is located at an altitude of around 1,500 metres above sea level in the heart of the Dolomites. The area is a huge attraction for nature lovers who visit all year round. In cold weather, the surface of the lake is covered with a blanket of ice and the shores are covered in snow, which is when you’ll find visitors mountaineering and snowshoeing. During the summer months, the lake is an intense emerald green, attracting visitors in search of relaxation on the water. However, even though Lake Braies is listed as a bathing lake, the water is chilly (even in summer), so swimming is only for a brave few. It’s also possible to cross the banks by row boat, like those in today’s image.

While visitors are still welcome, to put a stop to excessive numbers of tourists, the mayor of the town has established that this year, from 10 July to 10 September, the lake will be accessible only on foot, by bike or by bus (including organised tourist buses), while those arriving by car or motorbike must first book parking. The aim is to limit access to the valley to no more than 5,500 people per day to protect the beauty of Lake Braies. So, if you want to visit one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, start booking your ticket!