Lake Braies
It is often called the 'Pearl of the Dolomites', and indeed, the emerald green lake, framed by dark green forests and the rock walls of the Seekofel, lies like a jewel before the eyes of hikers.
Lake Prags (1496m) - lakeside walk with hotel and church
At Lake Prags (1496 m) with Seekofel (2810m)
Chapel at Lake Prags (1496m) with Seekofel (2810m)
The Pragser Wildsee was created by a massive, prehistoric rockslide, which formed a natural dam in the narrow valley. The water flowing from several mountain streams behind it eventually fed the lake. The main outflow is actually underground at a depth of around 36 meters and only emerges further downstream.
Around the lake, there is a cozy, romantic hiking trail, passing by the boathouse, a chapel, and the Grand Hotel "Pragser Wildsee," which has a history of over 110 years. It was opened in 1899 and is still largely in its original architectural state. Recently, the hotel was chosen as the "Historical Guesthouse of the Year 2013 in South Tyrol."
The Pragser Wildsee is already located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites and is a popular destination for young and old. Especially on beautiful summer days, numerous vacationers as well as locals flock here. At the boat rental, you can rent rowboats and take them out onto the lake. The shallower southern shore is also used as a beach, and the very brave even venture into the (very) cool water.
The lake is also an ideal starting point for hikes in the Pragser Dolomites. The Seekofel, in particular, is a popular destination for mountaineers. At the entrance to the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park, you enter a true hiker's paradise; the Großer and Kleiner Roßkofel, Rote Wand, and Hohe Gaisl are some of the impressive and rewarding peaks. The high plateau of the Plätzwiesen is also stunningly beautiful – in winter, it is a wonderful cross-country skiing area.
The gate to the realm of legends
In the Ladin legends, the Pragser See plays a significant role, as one can reach the underground realm of the Fanes by boat across the lake. This legendary people had to retreat into the world of marmots after a catastrophically lost war and are waiting for the promised time when their earthly kingdom shall rise again. The Ladin name for the 2,810-meter-high Seekofel is "Sass dla porta," meaning Gate Mountain.
For those who want to enjoy the idyllic atmosphere of the Pragser Wildsee in peace, it is best to visit in the off-season or early in the morning. Then, this natural gem reveals itself in all its silent splendor and beauty. The evening atmosphere at the lake is also incredibly romantic, as the rocks of the Pale Mountains glow in the evening sun and the lake blends into the green of the forests.
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