Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park

Originating in the Braies Dolomites and in the Fanes Group, the regional Park Fanes-Sennes-Braies, 25,680 hectares wild, offers a large living, still untouched, for numerous animal species, as well as for the plant species, some of which are endangered.

It’s extended on a large surface area, covering the territory of the following South Tyrolean municipalities: Badia, Braies, Dobbiaco, La Val, Mareo and Valdaora. It’s an example of the optimal treatment of natural heritages.

Lake Braies is the most famous destination for hikers. Its images are present everywhere on the web and in a variety of volumes, illustrating the South Tyrolean pearls of nature. However, it isn’t the unique attraction of the nature park founded in 1980 that is absolutely worth visiting. One should also mention the well-known Plateau of Prato Piazza/Plätzwiese. The best way of appreciating the park’s beauty in its integrity is by overtaking the Alta Vias 1 and 3, that cross the nature park. The Alta Via 1 begins at Lake Braies and leads to Belluno. Its 150 km can be taken on in 9 to 13 stages, depending on the hiker’s physical condition. The Alta Via 3 with its 120 km is a bit shorter and stretches out from Dobbiaco to Longarone. Viable in 7 to 10 daily stages, this path connects the Val Pusteria and the Piave Valley.
Watchful eyes will easily identify the karst effects, and those who, instead, are concentrated on the fauna, can enjoy the view of rare plants, such as Pyrenean Dead-nettle, Dolomitic yarrow and Dolomitic Androsace.