Let's start our hike from the very heart of the region - Lake Braies (Lago di Braies). This magical place, located at 1,496 meters above sea level, is a true jewel of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park. The lake impresses with the turquoise color of the water, which changes depending on the time of day and year, reflecting the majestic peaks of the Dolomites.

The path around the lake, known as 'Sentiero al Lago di Braies,' is the perfect start to our adventure. This relatively easy trail, about 3.5 kilometers long, allows you to fully enjoy the beauty of the lake from different perspectives. The route is accessible to everyone, even families with children or the elderly. However, it is worth remembering that during the summer season (from July 10 to September 10) it is best to arrive here before 9:30 in the morning to avoid crowds and find a parking space.

As you walk around the lake, you will encounter several viewpoints that beg for a souvenir photo. I especially recommend stopping on the eastern shore for a panoramic view of the distinctive peaks of Croda del Becco. This is where those iconic photographs we know from postcards and guidebooks are often taken.

For those who want to experience the lake from a different perspective, boats are available for rent. For 15 euros per person, you can paddle along the crystal clear surface of the water for 45 minutes, admiring the surrounding mountains from a completely different perspective. It's an unforgettable experience, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is most picturesque.

Lake Braies is not only a place to admire - it is also the starting point for many longer trails. One of these is the path leading to the Malga Foresta hut. This trail, starting at 'Inizio sentiero per Malga Foresta', offers a slightly more challenging route, but rewards you with beautiful views of alpine meadows and forests. Along the way, you can meet grazing cows and enjoy local specialties such as cheese and speck at the lodge.

It is important to remember to prepare properly for the hike. Although the route around the lake is easy, it is always a good idea to bring comfortable shoes, water and snacks. The weather in the mountains can be changeable, so it's also a good idea to bring a warmer jacket and a rain cape.

Lake Braies is not only a destination in itself, but also a gateway to further adventures in the Dolomites. From here we can begin exploring the entire Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, which offers dozens of kilometers of trails of varying difficulty. This is the place where nature speaks to us in the fullest way, teaching us humility and delighting us with its unique beauty.

Leaving the immediate surroundings of Lake Braies, we enter the fascinating world of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park. This vast protected area, covering more than 25,000 hectares, is a true paradise for mountain hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers a wide range of trails, from easy walks to challenging high-altitude routes, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

One popular trail is the one leading from Braies Lake to Forcella Sora Forno Pass. It's a roughly 6-kilometer hike of moderate difficulty that rewards you with magnificent views of the Braies Valley and the surrounding peaks. This route is particularly charming in early summer, when the alpine meadows are covered in a colorful carpet of flowers.

For more experienced hikers, the park offers the challenge of a trail to the summit of Picco di Vallandro (2839 meters above sea level). This route, although challenging, is extremely rewarding. The summit offers panoramic views of the entire Dolomites, including the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo group. It's worth planning this hike for a full day and setting off early in the morning to make sure you make it back before dark.

If you're looking for something in between, a great option is the trail to the Rifugio Biella hut. This trail, about 8 km one way, leads through scenic valleys and offers great views of the Croda Rossa massif. The hut, located at an altitude of 2,327 meters above sea level, is an ideal place to relax and enjoy traditional Tyrolean specialties.

The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park is not only a beautiful landscape, but also a rich ecosystem. While hiking, we can encounter a variety of alpine fauna, including chamois, marmots or golden eagles. In spring and summer, the park turns into a real botanical garden, with rare species of alpine plants blooming at every turn.

Worth mentioning is the 'Sentiero delle Fiabe di Tesido' themed trail, which is especially attractive for families with children. This path, combined with the stories and legends of the region, makes the hike a fascinating educational adventure for the little ones.

When planning hikes deep into the park, remember to prepare properly. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so it is always a good idea to bring warm and waterproof clothes, even on summer days. And don't forget a map, compass or GPS - although the trails are well marked, cell phone coverage may be limited in the more remote parts of the park.

The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park is a place where you can truly take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in wild, untouched nature. Every path, every turn of the trail offers new and breathtaking views. It's a space where a person can feel a small part of the great, majestic world of the mountains.

When planning a trip to the area around Lake Braies and the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park, it's worth keeping in mind a few practical aspects that will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of the region.

First, the issue of transportation and parking. During the summer season, especially from mid-July to late August, the area around the lake is very popular, which can result in parking problems. P3 parking at the lake, costing €8 per day (as of 2023), often fills up early in the morning. The alternative is to take public transportation or arrive early in the morning (before 9:30am) or in the afternoon (after 4:30pm), when traffic is lighter.

If you are planning a longer hike, consider staying overnight in one of the local mountain huts. Rifugio Biella or Malga Foresta offer not only accommodation, but also the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine and fully immerse yourself in the mountain atmosphere. Booking in advance is usually necessary, especially during peak season.

When hiking, remember the 'Leave No Trace' rule - take all trash with you and try to minimize your impact on the environment. Picking plants and disturbing wild animals is prohibited in the park. Following these rules will help preserve the beauty of the park for future generations.

For those looking for less crowded places, I recommend considering a visit outside the main season. Early autumn, when the leaves begin to change colors, offers equally spectacular views, and the trails are much quieter. In winter, the region turns into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, offering cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing opportunities.

Local cultural attractions are also worth mentioning. Nearby towns such as San Candido and Dobbiaco offer opportunities to experience Tyrolean culture, architecture and cuisine. These are great places to relax after a day on the mountain trails.

As for equipment, in addition to standard hiking gear, it's worth investing in good trekking shoes and poles, which make hiking much easier, especially on more challenging trails. And don't forget sunscreen - UV radiation is more intense at altitude.

For photographers, both amateurs and professionals, the Braies Lake area is a real paradise. It is worth getting up early in the morning to capture the magical light of the rising sun reflected in the surface of the lake. Sunsets, when the last rays illuminate the peaks of the Dolomites, also offer incredible photo opportunities.

Keep in mind that the region is not only about beautiful views, but also about rich history and culture. Take time to learn about local legends and traditions that add depth to our mountain experience.

All in all, Braies Lake and the surrounding trails are a place where nature presents itself in its finest form. Whether we are looking for quiet relaxation on the shores of the lake or challenges on high mountain trails, the region has much to offer. Let's remember to enjoy this beautiful land with respect and responsibility, preserving its charm for future generations of explorers and mountain lovers.