Hiking Seceda in the Italian Dolomites in 2024 (original) (raw)

Seceda is a mountain in the Odle/Geisler Group situated within Puez-Odle Nature Park in South Tyrol in Northern Italy.

The summit of Seceda (2519 meters) is a dearly loved destination in the Dolomites because of its unbeatable view of the Odle/Geisler Peaks.

Atop Mount Seceda, the Odle peaks look like a Swiss army knife, eternally destined to slash the sky. It’s one of the most memorable mountain views in the Italian Dolomites.

The easiest and fastest way to get to Seceda is to ascend with the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda Cableways from Ortisei in Val Gardena. During the summer season, the Seceda cableways usually operate between end of May and early November.

From the Seceda mountain station, it’s a mere 10-minute walk to the summit lookout point. From here, you can continue hiking along the Seceda ridgeline towards the Odle Peaks.

The spectacular Seceda ridge is just the beginning of a highly-satiating circuit trail to Rifugio Firenze/Regensburger Hütte. In this trail guide, we’re going to outline the details of this easy-moderate day hike.

If you’re looking for a more challenging ascent route to Seceda, also check out this Resciesa/Raschötz Plateau to Seceda day hike. And, if you’re determined to hike to Seceda without a cable car, read this Monte Pic and Seceda trail guide.

Please note that wild camping is strictly forbidden along the Seceda Ridge and in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

Seceda Dolomites Hiking Trail, Val Gardena, Italy

Seceda Hiking Map

When to Hike to Seceda, Dolomites

Seceda Dolomites, Puez-Odle Nature Park, Italy

It’s possible to hike to Seceda from late May until early November.

The best time to hike to Seceda is between June and mid/late October, when the trail is usually clear of snow.

Our favorite time to visit is in autumn (mid September – late October), when there are less people, but the weather is still stable.

You can monitor the conditions atop Seceda by looking at this Seceda webcam.

Hiking Seceda in May

If you’re visiting the Dolomites in May, before the Seceda cableways are operating, you can hike up to Seceda from Val Gardena.

We recommend starting the Seceda hike at the Praplan car park above Santa Cristina. Follow this Monte Pic and Seceda trail guide.

If you’re attempting this hike in early-mid May, please ask the Val Gardena tourist office about current trail conditions. If there’s a lot of snow, it may not be safe to hike to Seceda.

Hiking Seceda in Summer and Fall

The Seceda cableways operate between late May and early November.

The operating hours are between 8:30 am and 6 pm. See exact dates.

Visiting Seceda in Winter: January – Early April

In winter, the Seceda Alm is used as a ski slope. From the summit, you can ski down to Ortisei, or Santa Cristina.

The Seceda ski area is part of the the Seceda-Col Raiser-Rasciesa skiing consortium.

Seceda winter pricing here.

How to Get to Seceda, Val Gardena

Step 1: Head to the Seceda Cableway Valley Station in Ortisei, Val Gardena

Piazza S. Antonio - Antoniusplatz in Ortisei, Val Gardena, Dolomites

Walking Directions

If you’re arriving in Ortisei/St. Ulrich by bus, get off at Piazza S. Antonio/Antoniusplatz in the village center.

It takes about 5 minutes to walk from the center of Ortisei to the Seceda cableway, using the La Curta pedestrian connection.

From Antonio Square, look for a sign to “Seceda.” Head down the small street between Sparkasse Ortisei Bank and Calzature Rabanser Di Senoner Emilia shoe store.

Take the covered “La Curta” escalator up. After the escalator, locate the pedestrian tunnel straight ahead with a conveyor belt walkway.

When you reach the end of the tunnel, you’ll arrive at the Seceda cableway valley station.

Driving and Parking Directions

It is possible, though not recommended, to drive to the Seceda cableway valley station, which is located on Via Val d’Anna 2, I-39046 Ortisei, Val Gardena, South Tyrol. Exact Location: Google Maps.

There’s a paid parking garage and outdoor parking area directly at the valley station with a capacity of 250 spaces. During our last visit, the parking was 2.50 EUR/hour between 7 am and 7 pm and .80 EUR/hour between 7 pm and 7 am.

If you’re staying in Ortisei, do not drive to the valley station. Most accommodations are within walking distance to the cableway.

If you’re staying in any other area of Val Gardena, either take a bus to Ortisei, or start this hike at the Col Raiser Gondola mountain station.

Step 2: Purchase a Round-Trip Ticket to Seceda

To get to Seceda, you have to take the Ortisei-Furnes gondola followed by the Furnes-Seceda cable car.

When you purchase your cableway ticket, you’ll be asked whether you want to go to Furnes (middle station) or Seceda (top station). Purchase a round-trip ticket to Seceda.

Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda Cableway Pricing

See current pricing.

If you want to hike to Seceda without a cable car, we recommend this ascent route.

Step 3: Ascend to the Seceda Mountain Station (2 Cableways)

Hop on the Ortisei-Furnes gondola to the Furnes middle station.

At Furnes, disembark the gondola and walk a few meters to the Furnes-Seceda cableway station. Hop on the Furnes-Seceda aerial cable car to the Seceda mountain station.

Seceda Hiking Trail Description

Seceda Mountain Station to Seceda Summit / Photo Spot (10 minutes)

Seceda Photo Spot and Viewpoint, Dolomites, Northern Italy

When you disembark the Seceda cableway mountain station, you will immediately see the slanted and formidable Odle/Geisler peaks.

The panoramic view extends to the Puez Group, including Piz Duleda (2909 m), Col dala Pieres (2747 m), and Monte de Stevia (2500 m), as well as the Sella Group and Sassolungo Group.

Follow the sign to the Seceda summit and photo spot.

It takes about 10 minutes to reach Mount Seceda (2518 meters). The summit is crowned with a Gipfelkreuz (summit cross) and a circular, metal structure indicating the names and elevations of prominent peaks in the Italian Alps and Austrian Alps, which are visible from this vantage point.

Looking to the left of the vicious Seceda ridgeline, you can see the summits of Medalges (2454 m), Sobutsch (2486 m), and Sass de Putia/Peitlerkofel (2,875 m), the northernmost mountain in the Puez-Odle Dolomites.

The range flanking Val di Funes to the north is Odles d’Eores/Aferer Geisler. Insider Tip: If you visit Val di Funes, we highly recommend hiking to Tullen, the highest summit of the Odles d’Eores mountains.

For context, the trail directly to the north of Seceda, at the base of the Odle/Geisler mountains, is the famous Adolf Munkel Trail.

Mount Seceda Photo Spot, Dolomites, Northern Italy

Near the summit, a narrow, semi-exposed path leads to another interesting viewpoint, located at a slightly lower elevation.

Hiking here is completely optional. Only hike to this Seceda photo spot if you have no fear of heights and the conditions are dry.

Seceda Summit to Pieralongia (40 minutes)

Seceda to Forcella Pana hiking trail, Dolomites, Northern Italy

The trail continues along the Seceda ridge in the direction of the Fermeda peaks: Pitla Fermeda, Grana Fermeda, and Gran Odla.

The entire path is embedded with cement blocks and lined with fences on both sides. The path is reinforced in order to thwart erosion and for safety, as it’s easier to grip cement than wet and muddy grass.

Please do not bypass the fences for photos.

The ridge footpath descends and joins trail 6. The path levels out and turns to gravel as you near the Panascharte saddle.

Continue along trail 6 across the grassy Seceda Alp to Forcella Pana (Furcella de Pana in Ladin, Panascharte in German), a dizzying, narrow saddle located at 2439 meters.

The Pana saddle links Val di Funes with Val Gardena, but it’s currently closed due to a rockfall. For the purpose of this hike, you can safely ignore that vertiginous path, which plummets to the north.

At the Forcella Pana junction, turn right and descend trail 1 in the direction of the Troier Hut, signed “Trojer Hütte – Baita Trojer.”

As you contour down the Alp, an impressive mountain panorama stretches out before you.

Alpe di Siusi is the rolling plateau to the southwest that stretches between the mighty Sassolungo/Langkofel Group and the Sciliar/Schlern Group. The Sella Group is the colosseum-shaped massif that stands to the southeast of Selva Val Gardena.

The forested, somewhat insignificant looking hill ahead is Monte Pic, one of the best sunset photography spots in the Dolomites.

At the junction, turn left in the direction of Rifugio Firenze (Utia de Ncisles in Ladin and Regensburgerhütte in German), signed 1 hour.

Forcella Pana to Pieralongia Hiking Trail, Seceda, Dolomites

This enchanting trail, flanked by a wooden railing, leads east towards Monte Stevia. You’ll pass a few picture-perfect hay huts along the way to the next junction.

At the next junction, turn left onto trail 2B in the direction of Pieralongia Hütte, signed 30 minutes.

This stretch of the Seceda hike traverses a mountain pasture, which is grazed in summer. Keep a respectful distance from the animals and do not in any way disturb them.

Beneath the slanted Fermeda peaks, the trail maintains the same easterly direction. Enjoy the views of the green-velvety landscape, speckled with huts and tarns.

Pieralongia Hut, Seceda Hiking Trail, Dolomites

At the Pieralongia mountain pasture, you’ll find a rustic mountain hut, situated amid dolomite boulders. This managed hut serves light snacks and refreshments.

Just beyond the hut, there are twin spires, thrusting in opposite directions.

Pieralongia actually means “long rock” in Ladin.

Pieralongia to Rifugio Firenze/Regensburger Hütte (40 minutes)

Pieralongia Spires, Val Gardena Dolomites

Pass the rustic Pieralongia hut and continue straight on 2B for another 15 minutes (750 meters).

Beneath the Fermeda towers, the trail effortlessly cuts across boulder-studded meadows towards Mont de Stevia.

Pieralongia to Rifugio Firenze Hike, Dolomites

The trail descends to a signed junction. Maintain the same direction, following the sign to Rifugio Firenze.

At the next intersection, turn right onto trail 13B to Rifugio Firenze, signed 30 minutes.

After about 10 minutes, continue descending on the well-groomed trail 13. The path crosses wide-open meadows, peppered with Swiss Pine, all the way down to the Firenze mountain hut (20 minutes).

Pieralongia to Rifugio Firenze hiking trail, Seceda circuit hike, Dolomites

In summer, Haflinger horses and cows wander about freely.

Located beneath the imposing wall of Mount Stevia, Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hütte in German, Utia de Ncisles) enjoys a dramatic setting at the edge of Puez-Odle Nature Park at 2040 meters.

Regensburger Hütte was built in 1888 and was one of the first mountain huts in Val Gardena.

It was originally managed by the German-Austrian Alpine Club (DÖAV). However, after the First World War and the annexation of South Tyrol, the administration of the refuge was transfered to the Italian Alpine Club (CAI). In 2010, the hut was entrusted to the Autunomous Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol), which still owns it.

The hut terrace takes in the full sweep of the Odle Group along with the Sassolungo Group. You can eat lunch in Rifugio Firenze anytime between 11:30 am until 3 pm.

Typically, Rifugio Firenze is open from early June until mid-October.

Rifugio Firenze/Regensburger Hütte to Baita Troier (50 minutes)

Rifugio Firenze, Puez-Odle Nature Park, Dolomites

Rifugio Firenze

To complete the Seceda circuit trail, follow trail 1 in the direction of Trojer Hütte / Baita Trojer (also spelled Troier) and Seceda, signed 50 minutes and 1:30 hours respectively. This part of the hike is almost continuously uphill.

The gravel path soon divides. Stay right.

Ascend the smooth, well-graded trail through stands of Swiss Pine.

After about 25 minutes from Rifugio Firenze, you’ll arrive at a junction. Turn right in the direction of Seceda (trail 1).

The path steeply climbs up to the UNESCO Mastlé Val Gardena Panoramic Balcony, which is a circular steel structure that serves as a viewing platform. The structure illustrates the names and corresponding directions of the surrounding peaks.

The main focal point is Sassolungo, but there are also arresting views of Piz Duledaand Monte Stevia.

Rifugio Firenze/Regensburger Hütte to Baita Troier hiking trail, Seceda, Dolomites

From the UNESCO viewpoint, continue up to the fence that runs along the ridge. From here, the gravel path descends with great ease across a wide-open meadow.

Shortly after passing the small lake of Lech da Iman, you’ll arrive at Baita Troier, an alpine pasture hut with a small enclosure of farm animals.

This is another place you can eat along the Seceda hiking trail. Historically, the Troier hut was a cooking hut for alpine farming. Today, it’s a bustling restaurant, open in summer and winter.

If you already ate lunch at Rifugio Firenze, we recommend eating dessert here. We ordered their mouthwatering Buchteln.

Baita Troier to Seceda Mountain Station (30-40 minutes)

Baita Troier, Seceda Alpe, Dolomites

Continue ascending along trail 1 back to the Seceda mountain station.

The trail leads steadily uphill along a cement-block path.

At the junction, turn left to Seceda, signed 25 minutes. Follow the familiar path that twists up the mountainside.

At the next junction, continue on the lower path to Seceda. There’s no need to hike all the way back up to the Panascharte saddle. The smooth, mostly trail crosses the grassy slopes and steers you all the way back to the Seceda mountain station (20 minutes).

Seceda Dolomites Frequently Asked Questions

Seceda Hiking Trail, Dolomites, Northern Italy

How Difficult is this Seceda Hike?

This is an easy-moderate day hike. The difficulty will depend on how acclimated you are to higher elevations, the weather conditions, and your hiking experience.

There is no technical difficulty along this trail. However, it does involve 524 meters of elevation gain/loss. The gentle descent to Rifugio Firenze will likely be quite effortless, but the ascent back to the Seceda mountain station might come as a surprise.

After rain, or snow, the terrain can get very slippery. Though hiking poles are not a necessity, they will help stabilize you, if you’re hiking in mud.

Can You Drive to Seceda?

No, it’s not possible to drive to Seceda. Seceda is only accessible by cableway from Ortisei, or by foot.

Can You Camp at Seceda?

Seceda is located within Puez-Odle Nature Park, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Camping is strictly forbidden at Seceda, or anywhere in the area.

If you want to overnight in the mountains, consider staying in Rifugio Fermeda.

Can You Hike Seceda in October?

Yes, you can hike to Seceda the whole month of October. The Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cableways usually operate the entire month of October.

Can You Hike to Seceda Without a Cable Car?

Yes, you can hike to Seceda without a cable car. The best option is to start the hike at the Praplan car park above Santa Cristina in Val Gardena. From Praplan, follow signs to Baita Gamsblut, Rifugio Fermeda, and Baita Daniel.

This 5.8 km hike takes 2:35 hours one-way. The total elevation gain is 716 meters. We recommend descending back to Praplan car park via Monte Pic. Follow this Monte Pic and Seceda trail guide.

How Long is the Seceda Hike?

This Seceda hike is 3 hours and 10 minutes without breaks.

How Long Does It Take to Visit Seceda?

Allow at least 4 hours to visit Seceda. It’s possible to shorten your visit, by simply walking from the Seceda mountain station to the Seceda summit (20 minutes out-and-back), but you would miss on some grand landscapes and one of the best day hikes in the Dolomites.

What is the Best Way to Hike to Seceda?

The best Seceda hike begins at the Seceda mountain station, accessible by two cableways from Ortisei. From the Seceda station, it’s a 10 minute walk to the Seceda summit.

The Seceda trail continues along the ridge to Forcella Pana and onwards to the Pieralongia mountain pasture. Descend to Rifugio Firenze and then start the return route back to Mount Seceda.

We think it’s better to start this circuit trail at the Seceda mountain station, as opposed to the Col Raiser mountain station, because it gives you two opportunities to see the Seceda ridge.

Is Seceda Worth It?

Seceda is absolutely worth visiting. Seceda offers one of the most striking vantage points of the iconic Geisler Peaks. In our opinion, a trip to the Dolomites is not complete without hiking Seceda.

Where Should I Eat along the Seceda Hike?

Though Rifugio Firenze is the half-way point of this Seceda hike, we recommend eating at Baita Troier. The quality and flavor of the food is better at the Troier hut in our experience.

Is It Better to Start the Hike at Seceda, or Col Raiser?

If you start and end at Seceda, you will have two opportunities to see the ridge. The lighting will be different and the conditions may be different as well.

A compelling reason to start at the Col Raiser mountain station is that the Col Raiser gondola is cheaper than the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cableways.

Personally, if we were staying in Santa Cristina or Selva, we would start at Col Raiser, because it’s closer. Why make your journey longer than needed?

Where to Stay in Ortisei

Ortisei, Val Gardena

Budget Accommodations

Budget | B&B Lavi Ortisei val Gardena is a clean and comfortable bed and breakfast managed by a very friendly host. The B&B is situated outside of the town center, though within walking distance (~15 minutes).

Midrange Accommodations

Casa al Sole breakfast on the terrace, Ortisei, Val Gardena, Dolomites

Casa al Sole

Midrange | Casa al Sole is a newly renovated bed and breakfast in the center of Ortisei, only a short walk from the Seceda cableway valley station. Highlights of staying here include the timeless minimalist interiors, the natural wine bar, warm hospitality, and homemade breakfast. This 12-room B&B is masterfully run by Manuel and Alexandra, who infuse every aspect of their establishment with a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction. Read our Casa al Sole Review.

Midrange | Chalet Hotel Hartmann is a charming adults-only hotel featuring tastefully furnished alpine interiors, a delicious breakfast buffet, a complimentary afternoon snack, and a spa area (bio-sauna, steam bath and solarium). This is an ideal accommodation for couples and anyone traveling without children. It’s a 20-minute walk to reach the town center.

Midrange | Hotel Garni Walter is a top-rated, family-run accommodation in Ortisei. Guests love the generous breakfast buffet, the views, the location, and the overall cleanliness. It’s a 5-minute walk to the Ortisei village center.

Luxury Accommodations

Luxury | Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof is a 5-star hotel in the heart of Ortisei, home to the Michelin star Ann Stuben gourmet restaurant. This wellness hotel offers unparalleled spa facilities, flawless service, guided hikes and mountain bike tours, and a weekly fitness program. Guests are treated to a welcome cocktail, generous breakfast buffet, and afternoon cakes and snacks (3 – 5 pm).

Luxury | Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti is a stunning property surrounded by private grounds, advantageously located in the pedestrian zone of Ortisei. This 5-star hotel offers outstanding service, first-rate spa complex, beautiful rooms, and an on-site restaurant (half board available). 3-7 nights minimum stay.

Luxury | Hotel Angelo Engel is situated directly in the village center of Ortisei, walking distance to the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cableway. We loved the central location, the courteous staff, the wellness and sauna area, and our spacious room.

Luxury | Perched high above Ortisei, the newly-renovated La Cort My Dollhouse – Adults Only hotel offers 26 stylish rooms, a rooftop spa and pool, and fabulous views. Given its location, we only recommend staying here if you’re traveling by car. La Cort is a great choice for travelers who want more flexibility during their visit (no rigid eating times, etc..). Breakfast (7:30 am – 11 am) and Linner (4 pm – 7 pm) are included in the rate.

Luxury Apartments | Gran Tubla offers two-bedroom apartments with fully-equipped kitchens and sweeping views of Val Gardena. Guests also have access to a heated indoor-outdoor pool, sauna, and garden. Breakfast can be delivered to your room upon request.

Look for accommodation in Ortisei.

Hiking Seceda Responsibly

Geisler peaks, Seceda, Val Gardena, Dolomites Loop Trail

While visiting Seceda and hiking this circuit trail, you’ll be in the Puez-Odle Nature Park. There are no fees or permits needed to enter this protected area. During your visit, please adhere to the following rules:

  1. Stay on marked trails.

2. Wild camping is strictly prohibited.

3. Avoid making loud noises.

4. Do not litter.

5. Do not take anything (mushrooms, plants, minerals).

6. Dot not light fires. No campfires, no grills. No cigarettes.

Val Gardena Travel and Hiking Guides

Hotels:

Hiking Trails:

Via Ferratas:

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Dolomites Trip Planning Essentials

Use our Dolomites Travel Guide and our Dolomites blog archive to plan an unforgettable trip to northeastern Italy.

When to Visit the Dolomites

Winter Season. For skiing and winter activities, the best time to visit is between mid/late December and March. Read Dolomites in December.

Summer and Fall Seasons. The best time to road trip and hike in the Dolomites is between mid-June and mid-September. If the weather is stable, the hiking season can easily continue until late October. Read Best Time to Visit the Dolomites, Dolomites in September, and Dolomites in October.

Spring Season. Most accommodations in the Dolomites shut down in spring, between the main winter and summer seasons. Spring is too unstable and risky for hiking, due to snow conditions. Learn more: Dolomites in May.

How to Get to the Dolomites

Read How to Get to the Dolomites to find out how to travel to the Dolomites from the closest airports, train stations, and bus terminals.

If you’re traveling without a car, also check out How to Visit the Dolomites Without a Car.

Car Rental

The easiest way to travel between hiking destinations in the Italian Dolomites is with your own car. Check out our itineraries for trip inspiration:

We recommend using the Discovercars.com car rental reservation platform to search for and book car rentals. This easy-to-use booking platform compares car rental deals from 500+ trusted providers, so that you can choose the best option for your trip.

Tip: If you can only drive automatic transmission cars, as opposed to manual transmission cars (stick shift), book your car rental as early as possible.

Check car rental rates here.

Best Places to Stay

Figuring out where to stay in the Dolomites is probably the biggest hurdle to planning a trip to the Dolomites. We’ve created three guides to help you decide where to stay:

We suggest choosing 2-4 bases for your Dolomites trip and spending 2-4 nights in each base.

What to See & Do

During your trip to the Dolomites, you can go via ferrata climbing, culinary hiking, hut to hut hiking, cycling, paragliding, and so much more. We’ve highlighted our favorite experiences in Best Things to Do in the Dolomites.

Wherever you decide to stay, you’ll be surrounded by glorious mountain scenery and incredible natural landmarks.

In Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites, we’ve outlined the most iconic attractions as well as lesser-known destinations across the Dolomites, including Alpe di Siusi, Lago di Braies, Prato Piazza, Val Fiscalina, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Sorapis, Lago Federa, Baita Segantini, and the Adolf Munkel Trail to Geiserlalm, and Cadini di Misurina.

Dolomites Packing List

Hiking Gear

Outdoor Photography Gear

Dolomites Hiking Guides

Hiking in the Dolomites is our passion. Year after year, we love discovering new trails and expanding our knowledge of the area. For day hiking, check out Best Day Hikes in the Dolomites. For trekking, take a look at our guide to Hut to Hut Hiking in the Dolomites and Alta Via 1.

For region-specific hiking trails, check out:

Recommended Hiking Guidebook: Shorter Walks in the Dolomites (Cicerone Guide)

Seceda Dolomites, Northern Italy

Moon & Honey Travel is an independent blog created by two passionate hikers. We are able to provide free content to you, because of ads and affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Happy travels and happy trails, Sabrina and Kati