Eloping in the Dolomites: Early Morning Elopement at Lago Di Braies

Imagine exchanging vows with your partner, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites, as the turquoise waters of Lago Di Braies shimmer in the background and the towering peaks reach towards the sky. For couples seeking an intimate and adventurous elopement, Lago Di Braies offers a picturesque and romantic escape like no other. With the added comfort of hiring a photographer who knows the area well, you can ensure that every moment is perfectly captured. 

Let’s explore why Lago Di Braies is the ultimate destination for your dream elopement, and how to make it an unforgettable experience.

Why Elope at Lago Di Braies

Lago Di Braies is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the Sud-Tirol Dolomites, this glacial lake has turquoise waters surrounded by dense forests and dramatic mountain peaks. The breathtaking scenery creates a romantic backdrop perfect for your intimate elopement. Whether you're dreaming of a lakeside vow exchange or an epic post-wedding adventure session, Lago Di Braies offers an unparalleled setting that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. With the possibility of private access, this serene and secluded environment ensures a private and heartfelt experience, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a unique and memorable elopement.

Planning your Elopement at Lago Di Braies

Hire an Elopement Planner

Planning your elopement at Lago Di Braies involves several key considerations to ensure your day is seamless and magical. First, we recommend hiring a planner who specializes in international elopements in Italy. There are several very good options and we’re happy to provide recommendations - we know it can feel overwhelming when you start searching. 

Legal Requirements for a wedding ceremony in Italy

You must understand the legal requirements for foreigners to get married in Italy (it’s definitely possible but requires some foresight and typically 6-8 months for the paperwork). This often includes obtaining an Atto Notorio and a Nulla Osta from your respective consulate - your elopement planner will provide this information. Many of our couples choose to handle the legalities of marriage in their home country, and have a symbolic ceremony in the Dolomites.

Photography Permits

If you choose to go with a symbolic wedding ceremony there are no permits or fees required. You do not require a photography permit to document your Dolomites elopement.

The Best Time of Year to Elope at Lago di Braies

The best time to elope in Lago di Braies is during late spring or early fall, from May-June and September- October. This is when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is lush and vibrant. Avoid July & August, the European school holidays, when the area gets especially crowded. In early Spring the lake is full of fresh mountain runoff and you need to stick to the paths, with no options for beach photos. During the Fall the water recedes, exposing the beautiful white sand beach, a gorgeous alternative for portraits. 

The Best Time of Day to Elope at Lago di Braies

• Choose a sunrise ceremony to catch the morning light before the crowds arrive (Lago di Braies is one of the busiest places in the Dolomites!). Weekdays are ideal, between Monday - Thursday.
• Note that the road to Lago di Braies is closed from July to September between 10am and 3pm. The only way to access the lake during those times is via shuttle bus or e-bike.
• The mountains are notorious for quick and harsh thunderstorms midafternoon, so we always recommend focusing your elopement/activities in the morning or early evening hours. For evening options, consider equally beautiful but lesser-known areas to avoid crowds.

You can (and should) rent the boathouse, La Palafitta, careful planning will ensure that your special day at Lago Di Braies is as perfect as you've envisioned.

Rent the Boathouse for Exclusive Use

You can rent exclusive access to the Lago Di Braies boathouse (La Palafitta) in advance. This is the best way to ensure privacy during your elopement, as Lago di Braies is a popular spot for tourists. If you plan on incorporating florals, booking the boathouse is essential. For 400 euros, you get exclusive access to the boathouse and two boats (no other boats are rented out on the lake during this time). Remember, the booking goes ahead irrespective of the weather. Fog over the mountains is common, and can actually be quite dreamy in your photos!

Here are the booking dates and times:

15 June - 08. September 2024: 6.30-8.00 a.m.
9 September - 29. September.2024: 7.30-9.00 a.m.
30 September - 03. November 2024: 8.30-10.00 a.m.

Boats can only be rented from May - November. 

Where to Stay for Your Lago di Braies Elopement

Imagine waking up to stunning lake views and stepping right out your door to explore Lago di Braies. Staying close by offers unparalleled convenience and charm. Staying nearby allows you to seamlessly transition from your accommodation to the ceremony without the stress of long commutes. Plus, you'll be perfectly situated to capture those magical sunrise elopement photos!

Hotel Lago di Braies

For a truly historic experience, stay at the Hotel Lago di Braies, the only hotel right on the lake shore. Soak up the mountain views from your private balcony and enjoy delicious local cuisine at the on-site restaurant-  this is the perfect choice for your getting ready scenes before your elopement at Lago Di Braies.

Hotel Alpen Tesitin

Need some post-elopement pampering? Check out the 5-star wellness haven of Hotel Alpen Tesitin, just a 20-minute drive away. Luxuriate in the spa, take a dip in the pool, or explore the surrounding trails. Staying near Lago di Braies eliminates any stressful commutes on your elopement day, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love.

Forestis Dolomites

A 90 minute drive from Lago di Braies, this exclusive retreat is worth the added travel time. It offers an immersive experience in nature with its minimalist design and luxurious amenities. Each suite offers panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites, complemented by a wellness center with saunas and pools, a fine dining restaurant, and a focus on sustainability and nature. If Scandinavian minimalism is your aesthetic - this is the accommodation for you!

Alpin Panorama Hotel Hubertus

This luxury hotel, a 30 minute drive from Lago di Braies, is famous for its mountainside infinity pool. The hotel blends modern design with alpine tradition, offering extensive wellness facilities, multiple dining options, outdoor activities and guided tours. Picture coming back from your sunrise elopement to brunch at the hotel, followed by a romantic swim overlooking the mountains - heaven.

Ways to Personalize your Elopement Day

Creating your perfect elopement day at Lago di Braies involves thoughtful planning to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Begin with a carefully designed timeline (working with a planner on this is super helpful!). Incorporating local culture can add a unique touch, such as including Italian traditions in your vows, choosing locally-sourced flowers, or savoring a traditional Italian meal as part of your celebration. Personal touches, like heartfelt, custom vows, meaningful decor, and a boat ride on the lake make your elopement truly unique. By focusing on these details, you ensure that your elopement day reflects your love story while embracing the epic beauty of Lago di Braies.

Traveling to Lago di Braies

Traveling to Lago di Braies requires some planning, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth the journey! Thankfully we have a relatively quick drive from Bavaria, if you’re coming from further afield here are some options: 

Closest major airport is Venice. Rent a car and arrive at Lago di Braies in 2 hr 45 minutes. 

Additional airport: Innsbruck, Austria, which is only 2 hr 5 minutes, but has fewer flight options.

Pack layers to accommodate the variable mountain weather (it is cool in the mornings and warms up dramatically throughout the day), comfortable hiking shoes, and wedding attire and accessories. Many airlines offer special services for wedding attire. Check with your carrier to see if they can help ensure your dress or suit arrives wrinkle-free. 

Knowing a few basic Italian or German phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and making communication easier with the friendly locals. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Euro, and consider exchanging money in advance or using international credit cards (the cafe at Lago di Braies only accepts cash, so definitely bring that with you, a post celebration coffee and croissant is perfection). By preparing for these travel details, you can focus on enjoying your romantic elopement in the heart of the Dolomites.

Helpful phrases in Italian:

Greetings and Basic Phrases:

Buongiorno / Buonasera - Good morning / Good evening
Ciao - Hello / Goodbye (informal)
Grazie - Thank you
Prego - You're welcome / Please (when offering something)

‍Navigating and Asking for Help:

Mi scusi - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Aiuto! - Help!
Parla inglese? - Do you speak English?

Eating and Dining:

Vorrei... - I would like...
Un tavolo per due, per favore - A table for two, please
Delizioso! - Delicious!

Travel and Directions:

Stazione dei treni / Autobus - Train station / Bus
Quanto costa? - How much does it cost?
Dov'è il bagno? - Where is the bathroom?
Sinistra / Destra - Left / Right

Helpful phrases in German:

Greetings and Basic Phrases:
Guten Morgen / Guten Abend - Good morning / Good evening
Hallo / Tschüss - Hello / Goodbye (informal)
Danke - Thank you
Bitte - You're welcome / Please (when offering something)
Navigating and Asking for Help:
Entschuldigung / Es tut mir leid - Excuse me / I'm sorry
Hilfe! - Help!
Sprechen Sie Englisch? - Do you speak English?
Eating and Dining:
Ich hätte gerne... - I would like...
Einen Tisch für zwei, bitte - A table for two, please
Lecker! - Delicious!
Travel and Directions:
Bahnhof - Train station 
Wie viel kostet das? - How much does it cost?
Wo ist die Toilette? - Where is the bathroom?
Links / Rechts - Left / Right

Responsible Tourism at Lago di Braies
Embrace Sustainable Practices for a Pristine Elopement

Ready to plan your elopement at Lago di Braies? Fantastic! To preserve this stunning location's natural beauty and serenity, let's embrace sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Lago di Braies has seen an increase in tourism, but thankfully, new protocols are in place to manage it responsibly. Here's how you can be a part of the solution:

• Leave No Trace: Always pack out all your trash and avoid disturbing the environment. Stick to marked trails and respect wildlife and local flora.
• Stay Informed: Check Lago di Braies' environmental policies before each season (starting in May with bookings opening in February).
• Choose Sustainable Partners: Select vendors and accommodations that prioritize sustainability.
• Offset Your Carbon Footprint: Consider offsetting your travel emissions to minimize your environmental impact.

By following these practices, you ensure Lago di Braies remains a beautiful destination for future visitors. You'll enjoy your elopement while contributing positively to the environment and the local community.

Expand Your Elopement Adventure: Explore the Dolomites

Transform your elopement into a multi-day adventure! The Dolomites offer breathtaking locations perfect for elopement celebrations.

Here's a sample itinerary to inspire you:

• Sunrise Ceremony at Lago di Braies: Capture the lake's serene beauty under the morning light.
• Scenic Hike to Seceda: Embark on a hike and be rewarded with panoramic mountain views.
• Picnic Lunch in Nature: Enjoy a romantic break surrounded by stunning scenery.
• Sunset at Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Witness the iconic peaks bathed in the golden glow of sunset.

Additional Picturesque Dolomite Locations

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Dramatic peaks offer a perfect backdrop for adventurous elopements. 

2. Seceda: Breathtaking panoramas and the iconic Odle mountain range create a stunning elopement setting. 

3. Alta Badia: Charming villages and scenic vistas provide a romantic and intimate elopement experience.

4. Lago di Caldaro:  Nestled amidst vineyards, this tranquil lake offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.

We recommend:  Pension Leuchtenburg, a charming accommodation with cozy rooms and stunning views. Relax on the terrace and enjoy local wines amidst the scenic vineyards.

Each location offers unique settings to tailor your elopement. Whether you seek panoramic views, serene lakes, or charming villages, the Dolomites have something for everyone.

Your Adventure Elopement Photographer

We Eloped Too!

As a husband-and-wife photography team who eloped 11 years ago, we understand the joy and excitement of elopements. Located nearby, we're familiar with the Dolomites and would be honored to capture your special day. We'll guide you through the experience with our local expertise and personal recommendations.

Let's chat and create your dream elopement!

Imagine your elopement at Lago di Braies - an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and intimate moments. Exchange vows by the turquoise waters or amidst the towering Dolomites. The serenity and beauty create the perfect setting for a romantic celebration. Make your dream elopement a reality at Lago di Braies. Contact us today to start planning your cherished chapter in this stunning Italian Alpine paradise.