Valdaora di Sopra is a little mountain village positioned in the high Val Pusteria at an elevation of 1080 m. the route commen- ces from the village to reach one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Dolomites. Lago di Braies is situated at an elevation of 1495 m, at the base of the croda del Beco and is a very popular destination for lots of tourists, particularly in the summer months. that’s certainly not a coincidence, as the views are breath-taking to say the least. Upon arrival at the Malga Brunst, a further 400 m higher, it feels though it is situated on an island in the middle of the forest. At 1900 m elevation this is the highest point of the tour. one more reason to make the most of the refuge’s cuisine (open in summer).

Itinerary description

Depart from the town centre ➊ of Valdaora di Sopra (1080 m), take the bridge across the Rio Brunst river and follow waymark n. 20 toward Malga Brunst, heading south; after approximately 3 km there begins a steep forest road that leads to ➋ the Malga Brunst (1898 m). the first descent takes place on bridleway n. 35A towards Braies/Ferrara, up to the village of ➌ S. Vito (1340 m). Follow the road SP 47 and continue deeper into the valley, to the turning point, ➍ Lago di Braies (1495 m). Here starts the second descent on bridleway n.1; once the SP 47 is reached, follow it toward Braies di Dentro ➎ and descend on the road for 500 metres to ➏ Ferrara (1220 m). From here take the bicycle path toward Brunico, ride through Monguelfo, and along the artificial lake of Valdaora to the ➐ road to Valdaora di Sopra, which returns to the original starting point. 

Valdaora di sopra

From Val pusteria-pustertal toward Valdaora di Sopra-Oberolang