Marko and Maija’s Lago di Braies elopement adventure kicked off at sunrise and finished at the famous lake at sunset. We’d intended to start at a higher elevation, but the fog had other ideas. Fortunately, you can pull over literally anywhere in the mountain range’s winding highways and expect to find jaw-dropping views. We rerouted and were rewarded with some incredible peeks at the mountains as the clouds rolled in and out.
When the Dolomites really started to show off in the background, we used this moment to pause our adventuring. I backed away, zoom lens in hand, so the two could quietly exchange their vows to each other.
Moving Uphill to Passo Giau
Later, our Dolomites elopement adventure took us to Passo Giau’s famous viewpoint, which had finally been released from its foggy blanket.
Afternoon Adventure to an Alpine Hut
The plan after Passo Giau was the spend the afternoon at Lago di Braies. But the universe had other plans; with an hours-long traffic line heading into the main entrance.
We rerouted to head off the beaten path for rolling alpine hills, a delightful bus ride, and a wholesome lunch. Almhütte Plätzwiese is a lesser-known location bursting with incredible views and opportunities to relax and soak in the “real” Dolomites feeling.
Truthfully, as much fun as it is to visit the “big hits” like Cadini di Misurina, Passo Giau and Lago di Braies, I think its essential to build in less touristy spots as well. Almhütte Plätzwiese wrapped us in the embrace of a real mountain hut and slowed the day down. For a few hours, we got to be real Italians.
The Main Event: Lago di Braies Elopement Photos
By the time evening had come, nearly every tourist had gone home and we had the lake almost to ourselves. The rain had settled in, making for the most beautiful, moody, soft photos.
Planning Your Lago di Braies Elopement
Planning a Lago di Braies elopement starts with one big decision: time of day. This lake is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites, and for good reason. But it fills quickly in summer. Sunrise is everything here. The light is softer, the wind is calmer, and you’ll avoid the tour buses that start arriving mid-morning. If privacy matters to you, aim for a weekday and shoulder season – late June, or late September into October when the larches begin to turn.
Access is straightforward, which makes it ideal for couples who want epic scenery without a strenuous hike. There’s a parking area near the lake (though restrictions apply in high season), and the walking path around the water is mostly flat and manageable in wedding attire. If you’re dreaming of those iconic wooden rowboats, they operate seasonally and typically open mid-morning. If you want photos on the water, we’d either plan for later light or build the day around sunrise portraits first and boats second. Keep in mind that Lago di Braies sits within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, so respecting local regulations and checking current access guidelines is part of the planning process.
For optimal privacy, you can (and should) book the lake house. Reservations open in February, and they go FAST. If that’s something you want to do, make a note in your calendar as soon as you can.
Truthfully, the lake is small, and highly trafficked, with 10 – 20k visitors per day in the summer months. I love it for photos of course, but I highly recommend making it part of a day with more open locations.
Working With Me as Your Dolomites Elopement Photographer
Hiring me as your photographer means having someone who deeply understands the landscape. As a trail runner who has spent time exploring the Dolomites’ vast network of trails, I know how to navigate the best hidden spots for breathtaking photos. Whether it’s a quiet alpine meadow, a dramatic ridgeline, or a peaceful lake at sunrise, I got you. Plus, with my Italian language skills and experience living in Italy, I can help you plan the logistics of your elopement with ease. I can help chat with local vendors and find the perfect rifugio for a post-ceremony celebration. My knowledge of the region, combined with my passion for adventure elopements, ensures a seamless, stress-free, and truly unforgettable time.
You ready to start planning? Let’s go!
