A Dreamy Split Day Elopement in the Dolomites: Lago di Braies & Cadini di Misurina
If there is one thing the Italian Dolomites offer in abundance, it is breathtaking drama. From glassy alpine lakes mirroring towering limestone peaks to razor-sharp mountain crests that look straight out of a fantasy novel, this region is an absolute paradise for adventurous couples.
When planning a Dolomites elopement, one of the biggest challenges couples face is narrowing down where to go. Two of the most iconic destinations—Lago di Braies and Cadini di Misurina—offer completely distinct landscapes, lighting, and atmospheres. The good news? You don’t have to choose between them.
A split-day elopement allows you to experience the quiet magic of sunrise at the lake, rest during the harsh mid-day sun, and end your day with an unforgettable golden hour and sunset high in the jagged peaks. Here is a look inside how a split-day elopement in the Dolomites unfolds and why it might be the perfect timeline for your special day.
Daniel and Yari flew out from Texas to share their vows solely in the company of each other. We planned Lago di Braies for sunrise to avoid the most crowds then Cadini di Misurina for sunset.
Part 1: Sunrise Serenity at Lago di Braies
Our day began in the cool, crisp air before dawn at Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee). Known for its vivid turquoise waters and iconic wooden boathouse backed by the formidable Seekofel mountain, Braies is world-famous—and for good reason.
Because Lago di Braies is such a popular destination, visiting at sunrise is an absolute non-negotiable for an intimate elopement experience.
As the first light hit the peak of Seekofel, casting a warm golden glow over the tranquil water, the lake was quiet and calm. Exchanging their vows without the afternoon crowds allowed the couple to slow down, breathe, and soak in the raw emotion of the morning. The gentle morning mist floating across the still water created an ethereal, romantic atmosphere that set the tone for the entire day. Daniel and Yari decided not to reserve the boathouse/dock (the company that manages the boathouse/dock charge €600 for this) so we picked a quiet area along the shore of Lago di Braies to have for themselves.
Highlights of a Braies Sunrise:
Quiet & Intimate: If you reserve the boathouse/dock, you have it entirely to yourselves.
Soft Morning Light: Beautiful, diffused lighting that yields soft skin tones and moody reflections.
Reflective Waters: The lake surface is calmest in the early morning, creating perfect mirror reflections.
The Mid-Day Pause: Rest, Recharge & Celebrate
One of the greatest benefits of a split-day timeline is the midday break. Elopements should feel like a luxurious celebration, not a rushed marathon!
Usually after the sunrise session, we take a pause and meet again in the afternoon This gives the couple time to:
Return to their hotel to relax and shed their morning gear.
Enjoy an unhurried, delicious mountain lunch at a local rifugio or trattoria.
Refresh hair and makeup without any stress.
Rest up for the adventure hike in the afternoon.
Unfortunately, August afternoon weather can be quite unpredictable and usually brings afternoon thunderstorms. The weather was showing thunderstorms, which is typical for this month, so we decided to push our sunset session to earlier in the day so we could still enjoy good weather and not have to worry about lightning striking the ridge. It’s important you choose a photographer that understands these mountains to keep you safe!
Part 2: The Dramatic Peaks of Cadini di Misurina
After Lago di Braies, we drove an hour toward the towering peaks surrounding Tre Cime di Lavaredo to reach the iconic Cadini di Misurina viewpoints. It’s important to note, you must make a toll road reservation a few weeks in advance because it does sell out quickly! I usually send an email a month prior as a reminder.
If Lago di Braies is all about serene reflection, Cadini di Misurina is pure high-alpine drama. The trail brings you along sweeping ridgelines overlooking steep, jagged rock towers that feel completely out of this world. It’s about a 30 minute hike, and there are some steep parts; most clients usually wear their wedding attire and hiking boots, then swap out their shoes at the viewpoint.
From the photos you probably can’t tell, but the iconic photo everyone takes actually has a wait time of about an hour. Usually we do our session in a spot adjacent that has the same background, then at the very end we take a few photos at the viewpoint. You would never know from looking at the photos! A dramatic grand finale to an incredible day.
Highlights of a Cadini Sunset:
Dramatic Panorama: Epic 360-degree views of the most iconic spires in the Dolomites.
Golden Hour Glow: Rich, warm light hitting the jagged rock faces.
True Alpine Feeling: A light hike that rewards you with an unforgettable, wild mountain experience.
Why Choose a Split-Day Elopement?
If you're planning your own elopement in the Dolomites, here is why a split timeline works so well:
1. The Best Light of the Day: Midday sun in the mountains can create harsh shadows and squinting. By shooting at sunrise and sunset, every photo is bathed in soft, flattering, and atmospheric light.
2. Two Completely Different Landscapes: You get the contrast of serene emerald water in the morning and dramatic, high-altitude rock peaks in the evening.
3. Pacing That Lets You Enjoy the Day: Splitting the day into two parts prevents fatigue and allows you to actually savor your wedding day as an experience, not just a photo shoot.
Tips for Planning Your Lago di Braies & Cadini di Misurina Elopement
Book Permitted Access Early: Depending on the season, vehicular access to Lago di Braies and the toll road up to Rifugio Auronzo (for Cadini di Misurina) may require pre-booked permits or tickets.
Wear Layered Clothing: Mountain weather shifts rapidly. Sunrise at the lake can be chilly, and sunset high on the ridgeline often comes with crisp alpine breezes.
Sturdy Footwear is Essential: Even if you plan to wear formal attire for photos, bring sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes for the walks between locations!
Ready to Plan Your Dolomites Elopement?
Whether you envision exchanging vows by a mirror-like alpine lake or standing atop a jagged mountain peak at sunset, I’d love to help you design an unforgettable elopement experience tailored to your story.