Chances are you’ve already seen a picture of Alpe di Siusi in recent times, perhaps on social media or TV. If that’s not the case, we just spoiled it with this picture. But don’t worry, because no photo, no matter how stunning, can compare to the feeling of standing in front of this breathtaking landscape.

Alpe di Siusi is the largest alpine pasture in Europe , stretching across 56 square kilometers. From here, some of the Dolomites' most iconic peaks rise in dramatic fashion: Sassolungo , Sassopiatto , and Sciliar ( yes, that same mountain on the Loacker packaging, although mirrored, since we’re viewing it from the other side ). With more than 400 km of hiking trails, Alpe di Siusi offers something for everyone: from seasoned trekkers to lovers of gentle panoramic strolls.

Difficulty: medium
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
Starting point: Ortisei, Alpe di Siusi cable car (lower station)

In recent years, Seceda has become a true icon of the Dolomites . Located on the edge of the Puez-Odle Nature Park, it continues to enchant visitors and attract photographers from around the globe, eager to capture its unmistakable silhouette. Its jagged ridgelines create a striking contrast : sharp, sculptural rock formations on one side, and soft green meadows on the other. This perfect harmony is what makes Seceda one of the most unique and photogenic viewpoints in the entire valley.

Attention: as part of a protected nature park, this area is subject to environmental regulations. Please respect them, so future generations can enjoy this view too.

Difficulty: medium
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Starting point: Ortisei (Seceda cable car – lower station) or S. Cristina (Col Raiser cable car – lower station)

Next, we head to a lesser-known but equally charming spot: Resciesa. According to some historical sources, the name comes from Ross-Etz, meaning “ pasture for horses ”, a nod to the area’s long-standing use as grazing land, a tradition that still lives on today (don’t be surprised if you meet a few noble steeds along the way). From this high plateau, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the entire Val Gardena and its surrounding landmarks: Sassolungo , Sassopiatto , the Sella massif, Seceda’s razor-sharp ridges, and, on clear days, even the Marmolada in the distance. Once you reach the panoramic point (marked by a large cross), you’ll also catch a glimpse of the Funes and Isarco valleys. In short, this is a real life balcony overlooking the Dolomites.


Difficulty: medium
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Starting point: Ortisei, Resciesa funicular (lower station)

With its unmistakable silhouette and towering spires visible from miles away, Sassolungo is the undisputed symbol of Val Gardena. A mountain so iconic it has been featured in countless photos, videos, and postcards. And why does it appear so often? Because Sassolungo and Sassopiatto rise majestically right behind Alpe di Siusi, forming the striking backdrop that everyone loves to photograph and making the landscape look like a living postcard.

One of the most famous trails here is the “Sassolungo Circuit”, a scenic loop offering spectacular views and cozy stops at some of the area’s most beloved mountain huts. For more experienced hikers, there's an extended route that loops around the entire Sassolungo Sassopiatto group.

Attention: the trail includes the “forcella Sassolungo”, a steep and potentially slippery section. Proper footwear and a careful pace are essential.

Difficulty: medium (Challenging if doing the full loop)
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Starting point: S. Cristina (Monte Pana + Mont de Sëura chairlift) or Selva Val Gardena (Ciampinoi cable car)

This natural park is a true gem for history and geology lovers. Here, you can find all the rock layers that make up the Dolomites: essentially making this a giant open-air geological museum. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon marine fossils , fascinating remnants of a tropical past ( yes, these mountains were once coral atolls, much like the ones you’d find in the Maldives ). The park is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna : among the larch and stone pine forests live deer, roe deer, and marmots, who occasionally come out to say hello.


Difficulty: medium
Hiking time: 6 hours
Starting point: Selva Val Gardena, Dantercëpies cable car (lower station)