Wild Braies Valley – hikes in Alta Pusteria

South Tyrol's Alta Pusteria is no longer an insider tip when it comes to hiking, but the clear mountain lakes, the views over the Dolomites and the untouched forests are well worth a visit. Braies and the surrounding villages offer ideal starting points for extensive hikes in the surrounding mountains. The villages organise numerous cultural events, especially in the summer months, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

The five Tours are varied, offering something for everyone – whether you prefer hiking through beautiful alpine landscapes or admiring the breathtaking view from the summit over the valley at sunrise. As with all my Collections, the individual Tours have different levels of difficulty. The most demanding Tour is the ascent to the Seekofel above the Pragser Wildsee, while the walk to the Grünwaldalm is relatively easy. All Tours require a good basic level of fitness but are easily manageable for any regular hiker.

My favourite Tours are the two hikes on the high plateau of Prato Piazza. There’s something very special about the vastness, the green mountain meadows and the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains. The region attracts many tourists, so I recommend avoiding August and planning your hikes in May, June, July or September. Some of the Tours exceed 2,000 metres (6,500 ft) in altitude, so choose clothing suitable for variations in temperature.

Alta Pusteria is located in the west of South Tyrol and is easily accessible by train or car. The rail network is well developed, so you can arrive by train and get around easily by public transport during your stay. The region is four hours from Munich and two hours from Innsbruck.