Italy
Check Lago di Braies of your bucket list.
Not many Insta-famous locations live up to their hype, but Lago di Braies is in my opinion the exception to this rule. This breathtaking lake is worth a little detour from wherever you're staying in the Dolomites area.
Watch the sunrise over the lake
Even if you're not interested in taking the best pictures, I strongly believe that in order to experience the true magic of Lago di Braies you simply have to arrive early. And by early I mean right before sunrise. Slowly watching the sun rise above the mountains and the colors of the lake change in their reflection is a truly unforgettable experience. As from 9 am onwards, busses with tourists start to arrive and that little bit of magic is lost.
Hike around the lake
While most people race to the iconic boat house to discover the lake, many don't even think of taking the one-hour hike around it. Nevertheless, I think you get to enjoy so many more different beautiful views this way. Once you're done admiring the sunrise, simply walk right of the hotel where you will find a trail that takes you around the lake. To me, this was a little piece of Canada in Italy.
Finish with a coffee by the lake
Once Lago di Braies starts to get busier, the nicest way to end your experience is to grab a takeaway coffee at Emmas Bistro right next to it and simply enjoy it with one of the most amazing views in the world in the background.
