Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Pragser Wildsee—also known as Lago di Braies—enchants visitors with its emerald-green waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. The dual names reflect the region’s unique heritage. This part of northern Italy is South Tyrol, where both German and Italian are official languages. No matter what you call it, the lake is breathtaking, even on a drizzly May day like ours.
Walking the Lakeside Path
One of the best ways to experience Pragser Wildsee is the footpath that circles the lake. The loop is about 4 km—perfect for families looking for a manageable adventure. It took us about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with plenty of stops to skip stones, snap photos, and simply soak in the scenery. We loved that the path quickly became less crowded as we got further from the entrance. If you start on the left (by the boathouse), be prepared for a few uphill sections and stairs—great for energetic kids, but not so much for strollers. The right-hand side, starting by the bistro, is flat and stroller-friendly. If you’re traveling with little ones, you could easily do this section. For the full loop, a hiking backpack is much easier than a stroller.
Marble Run Fun
While there’s no playground at the lake, our kids were thrilled to discover three marble run stations near the Cappella Lago di Braies (the little lakeside church on the right-hand side). For just €2, you can buy a wooden marble and race it down the tracks. It’s a simple activity but kept our kids entertained while we enjoyed the peaceful setting.
Paddle Boats
If you’re looking for a classic Dolomite experience, you can choose between a shared or private boat rental to glide across the emerald water. We noticed the line for boats grew quickly, so we’d recommend going early if you want to avoid a wait. On this visit, we opted for the hike instead, as the kids were eager to stretch their legs after the car ride.
Dining at the Lake
All that fresh air works up an appetite, and there are several spots to eat right at the lake. We chose Emma’s Bistro, a self-service restaurant with a good selection of pasta, pizza, and sandwiches. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, and it’s conveniently close to the marble run—perfect for families. The food was tasty and the atmosphere relaxed, making it a great pit stop before heading back out to explore.
Parking Tips
Parking at Pragser Wildsee is well organized, with several lots available. P3 is the closest to the lake and was a lifesaver on our drizzly day. Parking is paid (bring cash, just in case), and even in May, it was starting to feel busy by the afternoon. If you’re visiting during the peak summer months, you’ll need to reserve your parking in advance, as numbers are strictly controlled to protect this beautiful spot.
Pragser Wildsee / Lago di Braies is one of those places that feels magical no matter the weather. It’s a place where families can hike, play, and simply enjoy nature together. Whether you’re skipping stones, racing marbles, or just admiring the view, this Dolomites gem is sure to be a highlight of any family adventure.