Everything you need to know to plan your Elopement at Lago di Braies in the Dolomites

So, you’ve chosen to say “I do” in the Dolomites, Italy – honestly, what an amazing decision! The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places on earth, and while there are so many breathtaking spots to choose from, Lago di Braies truly stands out. It’s not only incredibly stunning but also super accessible, making it the perfect location for an unforgettable elopement. In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to plan your dream elopement at Lago di Braies, step by step. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

1. How to get to Lago di Braies

2. Accommodations – Where to stay

3. How to Rent the Boathouse at Lago Di Braies

4. Best Time of Year to Elope at Lago di Braies

5. The Perfect Sunrise Elopement Timeline

6. Book your Elopement Photographer!

How to get to Lago di Braies

To reach Lago di Braies in the Dolomites, you’ll want to plan your trip with both transportation options and hiking routes. Here’s how you can get there:

By Car:

Lago di Braies is located in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy. If you are deciding to drive, you’ll want to fly into a city near this region. Here are a few major cities to consider flying into.

Distance from each city:

Milan: 4.5 hour drive
Venice: 3 hour drive
Innsbruck: 2 hour drive
Treviso: 2 hour drive

By Public Transport:

There are plenty of trains and buses that will take you straight to Lago di Braies if you decide to go the public transportation route. Specifically, there is a direct train that takes you from Bolzano to Brunico. From there you’ll hop on the 442 bus that takes you straight to Lago di Braies.

You can find more information on public transit to Lago di Braies here!

During Summer Months:

Shuttle Services: In the summer, there are additional shuttle buses specifically for tourists going directly to the lake. Be sure to book these services in advence!

Hiking to the Lake:

If you’re a hiker and are wanting more of an adventurous day, there are several trails lead to Lago di Braies. You can combine them for a more scenic route through the Dolomites if you desire! Some starting points for hikes include:

Lago di Braies Loop: The trail from here takes around 1-1.5 hours.

Prato Piazza: A more challenging hike for those looking for a longer trek, taking about 4-5 hours.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Season: The lake is accessible year-round, but during winter, the road might be closed in some sections due to snow, so be sure to check road conditions.

Parking: Lago di Braies is a popular spot, and parking can get crowded in the high season (especially July and August). It’s often best to arrive early or use shuttle services.

Accommodations- Where to stay

Lago di Braies is a stunning area in the Dolomites, and there are several great options for staying nearby. Whether you’re looking for hotels, mountain huts, or more unique experiences, here’s a guide to help you plan where to stay around Lago di Braies:

2. Hotels in towns nearby:

Hotel Pragserhof: A charming hotel offering homey rooms with mountain views and delicious breakfast options.

Steinwandterhof: Located close to the lake, this is a more intimate, traditional guesthouse tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

Perfect for: Budget travelers or those seeking a quieter stay in the area.

4. Mountain Huts (Rifugios)

If you enjoy more rustic, adventure-style stays, there are several mountain huts in the surrounding Dolomites that you can book for an unforgettable experience.

Rifugio Biella: A beautiful mountain hut about 2-3 hours from Lago di Braies, with incredible views of the Dolomites. It’s perfect if you’re into hiking and want to spend a night surrounded by nature.

Rifugio Fanes: A higher-altitude option, ideal for those who want to experience more of the Dolomites’ rugged beauty.

Perfect for: Hikers or those seeking a more immersive mountain experience.

5. Camping & Glamping

Camping Pragser Wildsee: A campsite located not far from the lake, offering a more budget-friendly option. During summer, you can also rent glamping tents for a more comfortable camping experience.

Perfect for: Nature lovers and campers who want to wake up surrounded by the Dolomites’ beauty.

6. Airbnb or Vacation Rentals

There are a number of Airbnb properties and vacation rentals in the area, including private apartments, chalets, and cozy cabins.

Perfect for: Those who prefer more privacy and flexibility, or larger groups.

Considerations When Choosing a Place:

Season: During peak summer (June-August), accommodation can get crowded, so book well in advance. In winter, some places may be closed or harder to access due to snow.

Proximity to the Lake: If you want to be near Lago di Braies for early morning or evening photos, look for accommodation close to the lake itself (like the Hotel Lago di Braies or Gasthof Pragser Wildsee).

Activities: If you plan on hiking, staying in nearby mountain huts or guesthouses can help you get an early start on the trails.

How to rent the Boathouse for an Intimate Sunrise Elopement at Lago di Braies

If you’re looking to have a more private ceremony at Lago di Braies, you’ll want to book the 1.5 hour private shooting which is available in the morning from 6:30-8am (from June 16th-September 9th) before the boathouse opens to the public.

In 2024, this cost €400 for 1.5 hours and includes the use of 2 of the wooden boats. Be sure to take advantage of the free boat ride, as this makes for some pretty incredible photos!

For 2025, La Palafitta will open bookings for the Private Shooting on Tuesday 04 March at 10:00 am (European time).

Best Time of Year to Elope at Lago di Braies

Best for serenity and stunning natural beauty: Late Spring (May-June) and Early Fall (September-October) are perfect for couples seeking a peaceful elopement with beautiful landscapes and fewer tourists.

Best for summer activities and vibrant scenery: Summer (June-August) offers lush greenery and all services, but expect more visitors.

Best for a unique winter wonderland experience: Winter (December-February) is perfect for a magical snowy elopement, but be ready for cold temperatures and fewer services.

Eloping at Lago di Braies in the Dolomites is a magical experience, and the best months for an unforgettable, serene wedding depend on the atmosphere you’re aiming for. Here’s a breakdown of the best months to elope at this beautiful location, taking into account the weather, scenery, and overall vibe

1. Late Spring (May – Early June)

Pros: The crowds are fewer compared to summer, which means a more intimate experience. The surrounding meadows, forests, and mountains are lush and green, with flowers starting to bloom, providing stunning backdrops for photos.

Cons: The lake might still be a bit cold for boat rides, but the views and serenity are worth it.

2. Summer (Late June – August)

Pros: This is the time when the lake and its surroundings are in full bloom, with lush greenery and clear blue waters. The rowboats are available for rent, so you can enjoy a romantic boat ride on the lake. Lastly, hotels, restaurants, and the surrounding area are fully operational with all services available.

Cons: Summer is the peak tourist season, so Lago di Braies can get quite crowded, especially in July and August. If you’re looking for more privacy, this can be a downside. Early mornings or weekdays are the best times to avoid crowds.

3. Early Fall (September – Mid October)

Pros: The foliage turns into vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange, making the landscape even more breathtaking and perfect for wedding photos.

The summer tourists start to dissipate, offering a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere while still having all the services available. Temperatures are still pleasant, ranging between 10-18°C (50-64°F), and you can still rent boats for that romantic ride.

Cons: As the month progresses, the weather can cool down, and there’s a chance of rain, especially in late October.

4. Winter (November – March)

Pros: If you dream of a winter wonderland, this is the time. The lake freezes over, and the snow-covered mountains make for a stunning backdrop for your elopement. With fewer tourists in the winter months, you’ll have more privacy and tranquility. The winter landscape offers a unique, serene atmosphere that contrasts with the typical summer wedding photos.

Cons: Temperatures can drop below freezing, and it can be quite cold, with snow and ice. Many services (such as boat rentals, hotels, and some local businesses) may close or operate on limited hours during the winter months. If you’re looking for a more traditional wedding, be aware that winter can limit your options. Some roads or trails might be closed due to snow, limiting access to certain areas around the lake.

Additional Tips for Your Italian Dolomites Elopement:

Weather Planning: Always check the weather forecast, as it can change quickly in the Dolomites, especially in fall and spring.

Book Early: If you’re eloping in the summer months, make sure to book accommodations, permits, and any special services (like photography or boat rentals) in advance to avoid the rush.

Timing: Try to elope early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds, especially during peak months.

Timeline for a Sunrise elopement at Lago di Braies

5 am – Wake Up & Get Ready

Hair and makeup (if applicable), Prepare outfit, Light breakfast

6:15 am – Arrive at Lago di Braies Boathouse

Travel to the lake, park and arrive early

6:30 am – Sunrise Ceremony on the deck

Exchange vows + Intimate ceremony by the lake

7:00am – Couple’s Portraits on the dock

Pop champagne!

7:30am – Boat ride for photos

Row boat ride and Landscape shots

8am – Celebration or Breakfast

Breakfast at a nearby café or hotel

9:00am-8pm – Departure for Continued Adventure

Explore more of the Dolomites! Take a helicopter ride, hike the iconic Tre Cime Loop or Seceda for additional stunning photos!

Be sure to check out my Elopement Guide for useful tips on how to plan your epic elopement!

Find an elopement photographer to document your day!

Okay, here’s the deal: if you want an epic elopement in the Dolomites, it’s important find a photographer who you both vibe with, but one who understands these few important things..

Local Insider: I know the Dolomites like the back of my hand. Whether you’re dreaming of a jaw-dropping mountaintop ceremony or a cozy lakeside moment, you want to find someone who knows the area well and has done all the research so you don’t have to.

Custom Everything: No cookie-cutter weddings here. You want to make sure your elopement is 100% authentic to you—whether that’s a sunrise ceremony, a hike through alpine meadows, or just a chill mountain retreat.

Stress-Free: Eloping should be fun, not stressful! Find someone to take care of the details—permits, vendors, you name it—so you can just focus on each other and that stunning view. I provide every couple with an Elopement Planning Guide for this reason.

Epic Photos: Find someone who can document every moment of your day- capturing all the laughs, emotional, and authentic, candid moments, as well as the breathtaking scenery. My goal is for you to have memories of the entire day- moment by moment and every important detail.

Adventure, Baby: Whether you’re up for a hike or want something a bit more low-key, I’ll help you plan an adventure that’s as laid-back or as daring as you’d like!

So if you want an unforgettable, no-stress elopement in one of the most beautiful places on Earth, I’m your person! Let’s make your Dolomites dream day come true!