The Prags Valley, a tributary valley of the Puster Valley nestles between mighty Dolomite peaks. Small, introspective and yet lively – with the two main villages of Schmieden and St. Veit, plus smaller hamlets such as Plung and a few scattered farms. The valley may only have around 650 residents in an area covering 89 km², but with a junior school, post office, bank, supermarket, cultural centre, fire station, ski lifts, toboggan run and a unique natural landscape, we have everything that we need. For any other needs there are the surrounding towns and villages in the Puster Valley just 10 to 30 minutes’ drive away, for example Innichen, Welsberg, Toblach and Bruneck.
Peaceful, pristine and filled with natural wonders
Prags Valley
The best things to do in Prags
Lake Prags, Plätzwiese, Dolomites
UNESCO World Heritage site of the Dolomites
Our Prags Valley is divided into two arms, at the end of each of which lies a special natural gem – the world-famous Lake Prags on one side and the Plätzwiese high plateau on the other. Both are part of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park and are thus part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Dolomites. The landscape is shaped by meadows and spruce forests, which are crowned by the Dolomite summits. They climb from 1120 m at the entrance to the valley up to 3146 m at the highest point, the Hohe Gaisl. Well-maintained hiking trails lead to the majority of the summits.
Your perfect hotel for a holiday in the Prags Valley
Five really good reasons to choose the Hotel Trenker
Because the location is perfect for exploring the natural wonders of the Dolomites.
Because you don’t need your car to visit Lake Prags and the Plätzwiese in either summer or winter.
Because we show you our valley from Monday to Friday on our guided hikes.
Because we act sustainably, both in what we purchase and in the production of our energy using a photovoltaic plant as well as woodchip heating.
Because we take care of your every need and serve delicious food and drink.
Mankind and nature
Rural tradition with history
Prags Valley has probably been inhabited since Roman times, but it was definitively first mentioned in records dating from around 1100 AD. The people in the valley have always lived in harmony with nature and the rural life with cattle rearing, alpine farming and forestry has shaped the appearance of the valley. Many customs and traditions came into being, which are still maintained by the families who live in the valley today. Hospitality also has a long tradition in the Prags Valley. As long ago as 1490 the first spa began operation – Bad Altprags, which unfortunately is now derelict. Guests came here for their summer break to be cured by the healing waters of the spa. Many well-known personalities, including the Austro-Hungarian royal family, enjoyed the hospitality of the valley and visited our natural wonders.
Tips and fascinating facts
Frequently asked questions
Can the Prags Valley be reached in winter too?
Yes, of course! However, adequate winter equipment for your vehicle is essential.
I have heard that Prags is overrun with tourists. Is that right?
It is only true to a certain extent. The Prags Valley is so extensive that there are many wonderful and little visited parts and alpine chalets. Even in high season it is quite possible only to meet a few people on the hiking trails. But Lake Prags is a popular and much visited destination.
Is it true that the Prags Valley is closed to motorised traffic?
That is only partially true. In high season, specifically from 10 July to 10 September 2025, private vehicles are not permitted to access the valley between 9.30 am and 4 pm. As our hotel guest, around 1 week before you arrive, you will receive a transit permit so that you are able to reach us at any time without having to join long queues. On foot and by bike it is accessible by all at any time.
Our offers
So, when are you going to visit us?