A Breath-Taking 10 KM Hike Through Alpe di Siusi

Alpe di Siusi, also known as Seiser Alm, is Europe’s largest high-altitude Alpine meadow, located in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy. It’s a hiker’s paradise, offering stunning views, diverse flora, beautiful grazing cows and a range of hiking trails for enthusiasts of all levels. The meadow is embraced by the towering peaks of the Dolomites, providing an amazing backdrop. The interplay of light and shadow on these giant peaks creates a magical surrounding.

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Alpe di Siusi was our first hike location during our seven days in the Dolomites, and what a great start it was. It was the ultimate place to warm up our bodies for the days ahead. In need for a 7-day itinerary in the Dolomites? Here you go: Discovering the Enchanted Dolomites!

Find out everything you need to know for hiking at Alpe di Siusi, from how to get there to what to bring with you in current blogpost. And of course, a breathtaking 10 KM hike through Alpe di Siusi where the views will amaze you will be shared! Let’s dive right in!

How to get there?

Alpe di Siusi can be accessed by car or by cable car.

• By Car: If you want to reach Alpe di Siusi by car, you have to get up early or arrive late, because you cannot access the meadow between 9 AM and 17 PM. This is to protect the natural environment and to avoid busy crowds. If you plan to arrive before 9 AM, you can park your car at Compatsch (the only village in Alpe di Siusi). This parking lot costs you approximately 20 USD. And don’t worry, you’re allowed to leave the village at any time during the day.
• By Cable Car: The most popular and scenic way to reach Alpe di Siusi is by taking the cable car from Ortisei or Seis. The cable car ride provides breathtaking views of the Dolomites and is an experience in itself. Because this is a popular way of transportation, it is quite expensive, but it’s worth it in our opinion! A round-trip will cost you approximately 30 USD (depending on the season).

A Breath-Taking 10 KM Hike

We reached Alpe di Siusi by cable car from Ortisei and started (and ended) our hike at the Mount Sëuc Cable Car Station. This hike is 10 KM long, has an elevation of approximately 300 metres and offers a varied terrain, including meadows, forests, and panoramic views of the Dolomites. The estimated duration of this hike varies depending on your pace and the time you spend at different spots, but on average, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete.

During this scenic trek, you’ll encounter several noteworthy landmarks and attractions:

1. Mount Sëuc Cable Car Station: The starting and ending point of the hike is the Mount Sëuc Cable Car Station. Take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views before commencing your adventure 🚋
2. Viewpoint Over Ortisei: Along the path 6A, there’s a small detour leading to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Ortisei. It’s a great spot to capture some memorable photos of the valley 🌄
3. Malga Contrin: En route, you’ll cross Malga Contrin, an alpine hut. Take a break, soak in the surroundings, and perhaps enjoy some refreshments if available 🏘
4. Baita Tuene: After reaching Baita Tuene, another alpine hut, you have to cross the paved road and continue on the path through the meadow. After a while you have to turn left and follow path 30A that will lead you through the forest 🌲
5. Sporthotel Sonne: When you reach a crossroad, you have to turn left again to take path 9. Continuing on path 9, you’ll reach Sporthotel Sonne. This is a great place to rest and recharge before completing the loop 🔋
6. Return to Mount Sëuc Cable Car Station: The final leg of the hike (path 6) takes you back to the starting point, offering familiar yet captivating views as you complete the loop. Treat yourself with a refreshing drink at Mount Sëuc! 🍹🍺

We followed this route on AllTrails!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Alpe di Siusi is during the late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the meadows are in full bloom. Late June to early September is typically ideal for hiking when the trails are well-marked and the weather is suitable.

• Late Spring (May to June): Mild weather (10°C to 20°C / 50°F to 68°F). Pack layers and be prepared for cooler evenings 🌺
• Summer (July to August): Warmer temperatures (15°C to 25°C / 59°F to 77°F). Carry layers and sunscreen. Rain showers may occur ☀
• Early Autumn (September to October): Comfortable temperatures (10°C to 20°C / 50°F to 68°F). Embrace fall colors. Pack layers and stay hydrated 🍁

What to bring?

• Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots for a comfortable and safe hike 🥾
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers, waterproof jacket, hat, and sunglasses. When the sun is shining, do not forget to use enough sunscreen! 😎
• Water and Snacks: Carry enough water to stay hydrated and energizing snacks 🍫
• Map: Even though the trails are well-marked, it’s always good to have a map or download maps.me to access a map offline 🗺
• First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies for any minor injuries 🩹
• Camera: Don’t forget to capture the breathtaking scenery 📸

Ready to start your Alpe di Siusi adventure?!

Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm is a haven for hiking enthusiasts, offering a range of trails and stunning vistas. Whether you choose to reach it by cable car or car, exploring this beautiful Alpine meadow is a must-do experience for any nature lover. We hope this blogpost helped you to be completely ready to hike at Alpe di Siusi.

Have you explored the stunning trails of Alpe di Siusi already? We’d love to hear about your adventures, favorite spots, and any tips you might have for fellow explorers. Share your experiences in the comments below and let’s inspire each other to experience more memorable hikes! 🥾