Your guide to a stunning Seceda Hike, in South Tyrol region of Italy.
There are beautiful Dolomite views and then there are jaw-dropping views. A Seceda hike falls squarely into the later.
At 2500 meters, this ridge line provides one of the most iconic views in the Dolomites.
Jagged peaks and endless drop-offs are not uncommon in The Dolomites, yet the Seceda ridgeline is something quite special. That’s because experiencing Seceda isn’t just about the grand view in front of you, but equally about how it makes you feel.
Come and experience a Seceda hike. You’ll be inspired, promise!
Seceda, A Dolomite Gem
Located in the northwest Dolomites, the Seceda mountain stands tall over Val Gardena and the villages of Ortisei, St. Christina, and Selva.
Part of The Odle Mountain range, it lies within the Puez Odle Nature Park, which is known for its diverse and rocky landscape.
In the heart of the autonomous region of South Tyrol, it’s a unique place where the alpine spirit meets Italy. It’s also a paradise for outdoor lovers and the home of iconic hikes like The Adolf Munkel Trail and The Lago Di Braies loop.
Hiking is one of my regular ways to practice self-care and stay in shape. And, The Dolomites are one of my top places to hike (the other is Cornwall coast in England).
And I have to say, this is one of my favorite hikes. Because it makes you feel alive, like you’re standing on top of the world.
So whether you take the gondola up to enjoy lunch or spend the entire day, it’s absolutely worth the trip!
How to Get to Seceda
An ideal starting point for hiking Seceda is the charming resort town of Ortisei (St. Ulrich). From here, you can catch the most direct route to the mountain, the Seceda cable car.
The station is a short walk from the town center and there’s also paid parking, in case you arrive by car.
Alternatively, the Col Raiser cable car will take you partway up the mountain from the village of Selva. However, with this route, you still have a 2-hour hike uphill to the Seceda ridgeline.
In addition, a worthy addition to any hike is spending the night at one of the rifugi (mountain huts) on Seceda mountain.
Being able to catch the magical sunrise will add awe to your day! Yet sadly, the first gondola up the mountain at 8:30 doesn’t arrive in time for sunrise. So, you have to spend the night to catch that magic.
Where to Stay
My preferred base for visiting Seceda is Ortesei. It’s location also makes it an ideal base for a larger Dolomite itinerary.
Here’s what I love about it…
First, it’s a charming town with a beautiful pedestrian only zone that’s full of artisan shops and outdoor cafes. Second, it’s home to the Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti. You don’t need to look any further if you are seeking out wellness travel, I promise!
If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, another centrally located property with spa access is B & B Villa Angelino. Be sure to request a room on the third floor for a birds-eye balcony view of the mountains.
The last reason I prefer Ortisei is that there’s a cablecar to Alpe di Siusi, the largest alpine plateau in Europe. It’s truly one of my favorite places to spend time in Italy.
Alpe di Siusi is a wellness playground and nothing short of otherworldly. Here you’ll find miles of hiking trails for every level and yet another Adler resort, The Adler Lodge Alpe.
Hiking Seceda
At the cable car station in Ortisei, you’ll purchase a round-trip ticket all the way to the top of Seceda.
Halfway up the mountain, you will switch cars at the Furnes station.
Since cable car service is seasonal, be sure to check the schedule when planning your itinerary. The first car up is at 8:30.
Once you get to Seceda, there are a number of paths to explore.
This particular hike is a 9 km circular loop hike from the Seceda station to Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hutte) and back.
Technically it’s an easy hike, but the later part is uphill. So be prepared for some leg burn with the elevation change.
The Panoramic Outlook
Exit the station and turn left on to trail #1. Walk up the hill towards the lookout.
This panoramic point has a unique circular walk-in iron ring that identifies every mountain range within the 360-degree view.
At 2500 meters, its the highest vantage point in Val Gardena. From the summit, you can view the nearby Dolomites as well as the mountains in Austria.
You will feel utterly energized, like you are standing on top of the world!
Pausing to be present in the mountain wind and taking in the panoramic views is memorable. It’s exactly why we come to the mountains, to feel refreshed!
Next, head east towards the ridgeline.
The Seceda Ridgeline
Extending in front of you, the peaks are jaw-dropping beauty.
The feeling of standing at the end of this dramatic ridgeline, is one of awe. No photo will ever compare to the experience.
The first time I saw this view, was one of my most awe-inspired travel moments.
This is the best place to capture photos of the ridge line. So linger here and be inspired. It’s one heck of a mindful travel moment!
As you make your way along the ridgeline, be sure to follow the paths up to the craggy cliffs.
It’s a bit more leg work, but it’s absolutely worth it for the view and the feeling of wonder the accompanies looking down into the vast valley.
From here, you will take the trail 2B towards Pierlongia. But first, make a pitstop!
Baita Troier Hutte
If you are in need of refreshment, just a few minutes hike down the hill is Baita Troier Hutte.
It’s perfect for a midmorning break of freshly made yogurt with berries or local apple juice, both foods you’ll want to try in South Tyrol.
Here you’ll find outside tables & chairs with a commanding view of the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto peaks in the distance.
It’s an ideal place to relax & unwind.
I happen to be a big proponent of seeking out a scenic place to enjoy my morning coffee as it’s an easy way to make any day more positive.
In addition, there are some very cool resident llamas. They will watch you walk down to the hut with a curiosity that’ll make you smile.
Pieralongia
As you meander this part of the trail, the landscape becomes more rugged.
This area, known as Pieralongia, is marked by twin spires that push up through the ground as if from nowhere.
To get a sense of the size of these mammoth rocks, look for the wooden swingset at the bottom middle of the photo.
That’s a play area next to Malga Pieralongia, a tiny hut perfect for a beverage or light snack break.
They have resident donkeys, too. Just look at those adorable ears!
Further on, you might just find mountain goats sunbathing!
From here, the trail winds down the valley and across the meadow. It’s about an hour hike down to Regensburger Hutte.
Regensburger Hutte
Also known as Rifugio Firenze in Italian, you can see why people stop to eat here. Here you’ll find Italian dining at its best…good food with a scenic view.
Influenced by the land, the people, and the seasons, it’s all about authentic eating.
You can’t go wrong with fueling up with a dish of mushrooms & polenta or a mixed plate of speck and local cheeses. In line with slow travel ideals, there are plenty of local & seasonal options.
As you begin the ascent back up the valley, you’ll likely encounter some cows. No Seceda hike would be complete without them!
Lazily passing their days away, clanging their bells, and looking at the beautiful view. What an idyllic place to graze!
While Val Gardena is a paradise year-round, I prefer this hike in June-July when the alpine flowers carpet the meadow.
The hike back up the valley provides plenty of sweeping landscapes. Don’t forget to stop and take in the view. And get a photo or two, or ten!
There’s no doubt about it, Seceda is good for the mind & body and will feed your well-being & inspiration meter for months to come.
If you’re going to be hiking in the Dolomites, you may want to consider a compact guidebook. It’s a great way to see some of the other options available. Especially if you get pressed for time or if in-climate weather arrives.
Over the years I’ve been working my way through Shorter Walks in The Dolomites, by Cicerone. Alternatively, the walking trail map for Seceda is the Tabacco 05 Val Gardena – Alpe di Siusi.
If Cortina is calling, take the scenic drive and find epic hikes like Croda da Lago and Tre Cime.
If South Tyrol has captivated you, the Bullaccia loop hike on the other side of the valley is show-stopping views, and lots of them!
And don’t miss checking out 12 Essential Travel Tips For Visiting The Dolomites. You’ll want these inside tips to make the best of your Dolomite adventure.
until the next time…
…live well – travel well – be well
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