Lago di Brais

Lago di Brais/Pragser Wildsee, Italian Dolomites

Lago di Braies is the largest natural lake in the Dolomites, spanning approximately 31 hectares. Encircled by majestic mountains, this alpine lake, also known as the "Pearl of the Dolomites," captivates with its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.

It is one of the deepest lakes in the Bolzano territory, with a maximum depth of 36 meters. It is surrounded by the peaks of the Dolomites on three sides. Its largest tributary is the Braies River, which is also its only outflow.

Legend has it that the lake owes its beauty to a treasure hidden within the depths of its waters. The lake was the gateway to the underground kingdom of the Fanes, an ancient people intent on safeguarding gold and precious stones from the greed of local shepherds. In order to put an end to the constant thefts, they decided to open underground sources of water, causing springs to rush in that formed the lake to swallow up the wealth.

The large hotel located on the shore of Lake Braies was an important scene in one of the last episodes of World War II. It served as the stage of the transport of concentration camp inmates in Tyrol. Strong historic characters, such as the then French prime minister, who were held captive in these prisons, were released here in 1945.