Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) to Rifugio Sennes
Walk from Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) to Rifugio Sennes via Rifugio Biella on the Alta Via 1.
Take the bus to the start of your walk, the Alta Via 1 starts with a pleasant walk around Lake Braies, before tackling a steep ascent into the mountains and to Rifugio Biella (2327 m) from where you can take an optional hike to the summit of Croda del Becco (2812 m). Alternatively, continue on the mountain track (route 6) down to Rifugio Sennes, located at 2126 m with panoramic views over Croda Rossa (3246 m), Cristallo (3221 m), Sorapis (3205 m), and Tofana (3243 m).
This is a tough day if you are re-adjusting to long distance trails, but it is ultimately very rewarding.
Check which mountain hut you are due to be staying in tonight. If you are staying at Rifugio Fodara Vedla use alternative route 'Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) to Rifugio Fodara Vedla'.
Author’s recommendation
The first part of the trail is extremely rocky, dry, and without any shade, make sure you have plenty of water with you.

Track types
Rest stops
Munt de Sennes HütteRifugio Biella
Safety information
Today you may be walking past a few different areas where cows graze. Although generally very docile and used to walkers, keep your distance and never turn your back on a cow that is behaving strangely or aggressive. Be particularly vigilant around cows with calves.
Watch the short term local weather forecasts. Avoid high altitude hiking when the weather is bad. There are plenty of trails in the valleys, that allow you to reach a village quickly if bad weather sets in.
Tips and hints
How to get to the start
Take the 445 Bus from Cortina to Toblach (Dobbiaco). Check the timetable as the bus doesn't run frequently - The timetable can be found here: https://dolomitibus.it/ - tickets can be bought on the bus for 2.50 Euros
From Toblach take Bus 442 – Toblach (Dobbiaco) to Lago dir Briaes. Tickets (5Euros) can be bought online under https://www.prags.bz/en . Alternatively, there is a little helpdesk and ticket office in Toblach - please note this only opens at 10:00 and therefore if you are looking to take an earlier bus please ensure to buy your tickets online.
Refreshments
The bus will drop you off at the end of the lake, where there is a small souvenir shop and toilets. This is your last chance to buy provisions for the day as there are no other places to stop until you reach Rifugio Biella, at the end of a steep climb.
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
These maps and routes are designed to be used in conjunction with our traditional documentation. We have recently embarked on a conversion initiative to bring the two elements together, and this itinerary will be covered in due course.
In the meantime, using the two elements alongside each other should go a long way to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and problem-free day.
Public transport
How to get to the start
Take the 445 Bus from Cortina to Toblach (Dobbiaco) Bus station (not the train station). Check the timetable as the bus doesn't run frequently - The timetable can be found here: https://dolomitibus.it/ - tickets can be bought on the bus for 2.50 Euros
From Toblach bus station take Bus 442 – Toblach (Dobbiaco) to Lago dir Briaes. Tickets (5Euros) can be bought online under https://www.prags.bz/en . Alternatively, there is a little helpdesk and ticket office in Toblach - please note this only opens at 10:00 and therefore if you are looking to take an earlier bus please ensure to buy your tickets online.
Coordinates
Equipment
Such is the way of Alpine hiking that you need to be prepared for all seasons and weathers; sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes and a waterproof/wind-break layer are all required, as is plenty of sun cream and a healthy respect for the sun.
Walking poles will be a big advantage on some of these ascents and descents.
Ensure your phone is fully charged; if you doubt the battery will last throughout the hike it might be beneficial to bring a power bank.
This walk is isolated with few opportunities to buy food or water so be sure to bring enough with you.
Statistics
- 5 Waypoints
- 5 Waypoints
Questions and answers
Rating
Photos from others