Alpe di Siusi Hiking Guide: How to Visit Seiser Alm & Best Trails for First Timers
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How would you describe a fairytale scene? For me, it's endless rolling green meadows stretching out beneath dramatic peaks, plus some rustic wooden huts and grazing cows sprinkled across the wildflower-decorated landscape.
The best thing about this dream location? It's actually real! Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest high-altitude plateau, is one of the most breathtaking spots in the Italian Dolomites. And that's coming from someone who lives here in northern Italy.
I still remember my first glimpse of Seiser Alm (as it's called in German) from the top of the gondola. The moment those cabin doors opened, I was hit with some of the most incredible panoramic views I've ever seen.
If you're planning your first visit, this guide covers everything you need to know - including the easiest ways to get there, where to eat and stay, and the best Alpe di Siusi hiking trails that will give you those iconic views. I've got you covered with practical tips and recommendations to make your visit seamless. Let's go!
Table of Contents
Introduction
A Brief Overview of Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Where is Alpe di Siusi?
How to Get to Alpe di Siusi (3 Best Ways)
Best Alpe di Siusi Hiking Trails for First Timers
Where to Eat at Alpe di Siusi
Where to Stay Near Alpe di Siusi
Other Things to Do (Besides Hiking)
When to Visit Seiser Alm
Alpe di Siusi Webcam
FAQ
Final Thoughts
A Brief Overview of Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Alpe di Siusi sits at an elevation of 1600m at its lowest point, and 2958m at its highest. In addition, it spans a vast 56 square kilometers, making it the largest high-altitude meadow in Europe! This UNESCO World Heritage site is part of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park and is filled with some of the most accessible yet spectacular hiking in the entire Dolomites region.
What makes this place so special isn't just its size - it's the perfect blend of dramatic mountain scenery and gentle, rolling terrain that makes it ideal for hikers of all levels. The plateau is car-free during most of the day (vehicles are only allowed before 9 AM and after 5 PM), which means you can enjoy the pristine alpine environment in peaceful silence.
The area uniquely blends Italian and Austrian cultures, reflecting South Tyrol's history. You'll notice this in everything from the bilingual signage to the mountain huts (rifugios) that serve a mix of dishes like Italian pastas and Austrian strudel. PS. Always get the strudel!
Where is Alpe di Siusi?
Alpe di Siusi is located in South Tyrol (Alto Adige) in northern Italy, roughly 20 kilometers northeast of Bolzano. The plateau sits between the towns of Ortisei (St. Ulrich), Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern). Fun fact, it's also the largest alpine plateau in all of Europe.
If you're coming from major cities, you're looking at about a 3.5 hour drive from Venice, 2 hours from Innsbruck, or 4 hours from Milan. Most international travelers fly into Innsbruck or Venice and drive from there.
Pro tip: Renting a car is highly recommended to make the most of your time visiting the Dolomites! Be sure to check out DiscoverCars to compare the best rates between multiple rental companies.
Map of Alpe di Siusi
How to Get to Alpe di Siusi (3 Best Ways)
Getting to Alpe di Siusi is very easy, but you do have a few options to choose between. I’ve broken down each option below, including ticket prices, opening times, and all of the essential information you need to know before going. Below you’ll also find a map outlining the locations of all three access options.
Map key: The Mont Sëuc Cable Car is purple, the Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway is green, and the drivable access road to Compatsch is blue.
Option 1. Gondola from Ortisei: Mont Sëuc Cable Car
This is my personal favorite way to reach the plateau. The Mont Sëuc Cable Car from Ortisei takes you directly to the very heart / "top" of Alpe di Siusi in just under 10 minutes. Once you arrive at the top gondola station, you can hop right onto the main panorama loop trail. It's incredibly convenient - and for that reason, it's also the most popular way to reach Alpe di Siusi.
Ticket Information:
Adult Tickets: €23 one-way, €35 round-trip
Bicycles: Additional €7, Pets: Additional €7
Open: Mid-May through early November, and during winter ski season
>> More information & purchase tickets here
Summer Operating Times:
May 10 – June 21: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
June 22 – September 28: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
September 29 – November 2: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
On limited dates in July and August, the gondola also operates for a few hours at night.
Parking at the Cable Car Station:
There is a large parking garage right at the Mont Sëuc Cable Car station in Ortisei for about €2 per hour or €12 per day, with space for 240 cars.
Alternatively, there is also an open-air parking lot directly next to the station, called Parcheggio Setil, which is better for large vehicles and campervans. This parking lot costs €8 per day, and is paid to the parking attendant upon entry.
Mont Sëuc Cable Car station in Ortisei
Option 2. Gondola from Siusi: Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway
The Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway (or "Cabinovia Alpe di Siusi") option takes you to Compatsch/Compaccio, the hub village right on Alpe di Siusi. While it's slightly less direct than the Ortisei gondola, it's usually less crowded and gives you a completely different perspective of the mountains.
Ticket Information:
Adults: €19.50 one-way, €28.50 round-trip
Bicycles: Additional €12, Pets: Additional €6 (round-trip)
Open: Mid-May through early November, and during winter ski season
>> More ticket information here
Summer Operating Times:
May 23 – June 14: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
June 15 – September 14: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
September 15 – November 2: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Parking at the Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway:
You'll find a large, free parking lot for cars and buses right at the cable car's valley station.
Important note: From the Siusi cable car station at Compatsch, you'll need to walk about 20 minutes to reach the main scenic hiking trails, or you can hop on the shuttle bus that runs regularly during peak season. The shuttle bus 11 runs from Compatsch out to Saltria bus stop.
Option 3. Drive to Compatsch (Or Stay at a Hotel on the Plateau)
If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, or simply want to visit Alpe di Siusi outside of cable car hours, you can drive directly to Compatsch - the main parking and services area on the plateau. However, there are some very important restrictions to know first.
Driving Access:
Private cars are only allowed to drive up to the plateau before 9 AM and after 5 PM.
You can drive back down any time of day.
You will need to park your car at the Compatsch parking areas, and then walk in further to the main viewpoints from there (a 20 minute walk, at minimum).
Parking Areas:
Day parking at the main Compatsch P2 lot is €28.50 for cars. This is the easiest and most popular parking option in Compatsch.
There are also limited free spaces at the neighboring Compatsch P4 parking lot, which you can park in for up to 2 hours.
Overnight parking in all of the Compatsch parking lots (between 11 PM - 6 AM) is strictly prohibited.
Alternative Option:
If you're staying at a hotel on the plateau, you can drive up any time of day (typically on your arrival day only) with the hotel's confirmation. This way, you can drive directly to your hotel - no need to park at Compatsch and walk in.
Visiting in the Off-Season:
During off-season months (mid-April to mid-May and early November to early December) all of the cable cars are closed. Because of this, the road leading to Compatsch is open for private vehicles throughout the entire day!
Once you arrive in Compatsch, you can park at the main P2 parking area for a discounted €14 per day for cars.
Pro tip: Parking regulations for Alpe di Siusi tend to change slightly from year to year. Be sure to check out the official website for updated parking information prior to your trip.
Looking down towards Compatsch on Alpe di Siusi
Compatsch P2 pay station
Best Alpe di Siusi Hiking Trails for First Timers
If this is your first time visiting Alpe di Siusi, this is the trail guide for you! On the plateau, the main trails are very well-marked, have minimal elevation gain, and offer insane views without requiring a huge effort. Of course, there are much more difficult trails if you seek them out, but it's not essential to enjoy the area. Here's where to start:
1. Easy Panoramic Loop Trail from Mont Sëuc Gondola
Distance: ~4.3 km (2.7 miles) round-trip
Elevation gain: Minimal (about 154m, or 505ft)
Difficulty: Easy
>> Full trail info on AllTrails
This is absolutely perfect for first-time visitors! If you've taken the Mont Sëuc gondola up from Ortisei, you'll step out of the gondola station, and immediately be surrounded by those famous rolling meadows with the Sassolungo, Sassopiatto, and Sciliar massifs as your backdrop.
The trail is essentially a gentle loop that takes you through the most photogenic parts of the plateau. You'll pass several rifugios where you can stop for a drink or meal, and the entire route is well-marked with signs.
My recommendation is to turn right when you exit the top gondola station, and follow trail 6A heading towards Malga Contrin. Follow this all the way downhill until you hit the first intersection, where you'll take a left onto trail 6. Keep following trail no. 6 past Adler Lodge Alpe, until you reach another intersection. Take trail no. 9 to the left towards Malga Schgaguler. I highly recommend this spot for lunch! Then, keep following the same trail no. 9 uphill, eventually leading you back to the gondola station.
What I love about this hike is that you're getting maximum scenic impact with minimal effort. The views are incredible from the moment you start walking, and there are plenty of spots to rest and soak it all in.
Follow trail 6A towards Malga Contrin
Views from the panoramic loop trail
Longer loop option:
You can extend this easy loop trail by adding in a visit to Malga Sanon (info below under "where to eat"). By adding in this mountain hut stop, the trail stats are:
Distance: ~5 km (3.1 miles) round-trip
Elevation gain: Minimal (about 195m, or 640ft)
Difficulty: Easy
>> Full trail info on AllTrails
2. Hike from Compatsch to the Panoramic Loop
Distance: ~8-11 km (between 5-7 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation gain: Between ~170-290m (550-950ft)
>> Custom AllTrails map with the longest version of this route
This beautiful trek starts from Compatsch (whether you drove there or took the Siusi gondola) and eventually meets up with the loop trail outlined above. This route is also highly customizable, since there are various trails to either cut off length or add length once you've reached the main panoramic loop trail.
After parking in Compatsch, follow either the road or trail no. 30 heading west into the plateau. These will parallel each other for a distance until the trail and road meet back up at the Steger bus stop. Follow the main road until you come to a fork heading either left to Piz or right to Saltria.
Take the left turn towards Piz, and continue to follow trail 6. After a short distance, you'll come to a fork in the road to either continue following trail no. 6 on the paved road, or turn right onto a dirt road. You can choose either direction, since this is where the loop part of the trail begins and ends. In my custom trail map, you follow the dirt road that leads to Malga Sanon.
Malga Sanon
Views on the lower part of the loop
3. Tour of the Puflatsch Trail
Distance: 8.4 km (about 5.2 miles)
Elevation gain: Moderate (about 400m, or 1300ft)
Difficulty: Moderate
>> Full trail info on AllTrails
First, I have to note that this trail goes by many different names, which was admittedly confusing when I first learned about it. The Tour of the Puflatsch is also known as the trail of The Witches' Benches, "Hexenbänke" in German, and the Bullaccia Circuit trail.
Regardless, this is a perfect half day hike for those who plan to take the Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway or those who plan drive up to Compatsch.
The loop trail departs right from Compatsch on trail no. 14, which you will follow the entire way around. You can pop into Tschötsch Alm for a bite to eat, before following the trail uphill past scenic overlooks like the Engelsrast (“Angels' Rest”) viewing platform and then onward to the namesake benches.
The real magic of this trail is actually in the folklore. Along the trail, you’ll pass by these “Witches’ Benches,” where the local witches in the middle ages apparently gathered and danced before flying over the Schlern mountain.
Additional Trail Options
Hike to Rifugio Alpe di Tires: This moderate-difficult ~3 hour hike (one way) leads from Compatsch, across the alpine plateau, and finally up a steep ascent to the gorgeous mountain hut. Either retrace your steps, or complete the loop trail to make a roughly 6 hour round-trip trek.
Hans and Paula Steger Trail: An easy but equally beautiful trek, this roughly 5.5 mile (one-way) trail winds through meadows and forests, first following trail no. 30 and looping down towards the southern side of the plateau on no. 12A before eventually leading to Saltria on no. 12. From Saltria, you can finish the loop and reconnect to trail no. 30, or catch the shuttle bus 11 back to Compatsch.
Where to Eat at Alpe di Siusi
One of the absolute highlights of any Alpe di Siusi hike is the rifugio experience! These traditional mountain huts aren't just places to grab a quick bite - they're a huge part of this region's culture, and offer some of the most scenic dining you'll find anywhere.
Important note: the mountain huts in this area are referred to by many different names. Those include rifugio, baita, hütte, huette, malga, and schwaige. They all generally refer to the same thing: a mountain hut.
The huts on Alpe di Siusi serve hearty mountain fare that perfectly hits the spot after a morning of hiking. Think homemade pastas, local cheeses, speck (South Tyrolean ham), apple strudel, and local beers. Many also offer traditional dishes like assorted bread dumplings and goulash that deliciously highlight the area's Austrian influence.
Must-visit rifugios / restaurants:
Malga Schgaguler Schwaige: Known for its panoramic terrace and traditional South Tyrolean cuisine. This is my personal favorite spot for a meal in Alpe di Siusi! Order the assorted dumplings, you won't regret it.
Malga Contrin: Another option with a delicious local menu of homemade dishes, located an easy (and incredibly picturesque) walk away from the top of the Mont Sëuc Gondola.
Malga Sanon: One of the most well known huts in the alpine meadow, with incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Perfect stop for aperitivo or lunch while trekking the longer version of the panoramic loop trail.
Rauchhütte: A charming hut further down on the plateau with a cozy elevated vibe, incredible views, and a mix of South Tyrolean and Mediterranean cuisine.
Tschötsch Alm: Lovely alpine hut located not far from Compatsch (on the Puflatsch loop trail) with a warm, rustic atmosphere and an elevated menu of South Tyrolean cuisine.
Pro tip: Most mountain huts accept both cash and credit card, but it doesn't hurt to bring Euros just in case! Also, they can get quite busy during peak lunch hours (12-2 PM), so if possible, plan to dine a bit earlier or later for the best seats.
Malga Schgaguler Schwaige
Assorted homemade dumplings
Where to Stay Near Alpe di Siusi
For easy access to Alpe di Siusi, you actually have a few different town options, depending on how you plan to access this large alpine meadow: by gondola from Ortisei, gondola from Siusi, or driving up to Compatsch. Here's a quick overview, so you can choose the best accommodation area to match your own plans.
Staying Right on Alpe di Siusi
For the most immersive Seiser Alm experience, you can stay directly on the plateau. Many high-end hotels sit right in the heart of Alpe di Siusi, offering you the incredible advantage of being able to drive up any time of day in your own private vehicle (albeit, usually on your arrival day only).
Besides the driving flexibility, you'll be able to enjoy a unique side of Alpe di Siusi during the magical early morning and late evening hours when day visitors have left. Waking up to those views right outside your window is pretty unbeatable!
Recommended hotels on Alpe di Siusi:
Adler Lodge Alpe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
ICARO Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Ritsch ⭐⭐⭐
Mooshütte (private cabins)
Ortisei (St. Ulrich)
Staying in Ortisei gives you direct access to the Mont Sëuc gondola, plus you'll be in a charming town with wonderful restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It's a perfect base if you want to easily combine Alpe di Siusi with other adventures in the Val Gardena area (i.e. taking a gondola up to Seceda).
Recommended hotels in Ortisei:
Siusi or Castelrotto
These quieter towns offer an authentic South Tyrolean experience, plus easy access to the Siusi gondola. Castelrotto is particularly picturesque with its colorful buildings and traditional architecture, while Siusi is the hub town for the gondola that travels up to Compatsch (and is located closer to the base of the Alpe di Siusi access road).
Recommended hotels in Siusi & Castelrotto:
Hotel Waldrast (Siusi) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Parc Hotel Florian (Siusi) ⭐⭐⭐
Schgaguler Hotel (Castelrotto) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Alpenflora (Castelrotto) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Residence Mayr (Castelrotto) ⭐⭐⭐
Adler Lodge Alpe in Alpe di Siusi
Classic Hotel am Stetteneck in Ortisei
Other Things to Do (Besides Hiking)
While hiking is definitely the main draw, Alpe di Siusi is a haven for plenty of other outdoorsy alpine activities.
1. E-Biking
The plateau's well-maintained paths and narrow roads are perfect for e-biking, allowing you to cover more ground and reach more remote areas with less effort. This is a super popular activity throughout the peak season! Several rental shops operate both in the valley towns and on the plateau itself.
>> Bike rental in Ortisei (short walk from the gondola station)
>> Bike rental in Siusi (right at the gondola station)
2. Winter Sports
If you're visiting during winter, Alpe di Siusi transforms into a stunning winter sports destination. The alpine skiing here is particularly dreamy, with groomed trails winding down snow-covered hills, surrounded by those iconic panoramic mountain views.
3. Paragliding
For those who like a bit of an adrenaline rush (I'm with you!), tandem paragliding flights give you an insane bird's-eye view of the entire alpine meadow and surrounding peaks. One popular company for paragliding is Fly2, which has a specific Alpe di Siusi flight that's perfect for first timers.
4. Almabtrieb Festival
If you're visiting in early October, you might catch the traditional Almabtrieb - the ceremonial return of cattle from Alpe di Siusi (their summer pastures) down to the valley (their winter home).
This is a colorful celebration of alpine farming traditions with cows decorated in flower crowns, locals wearing traditional attire, live folk music, and various festivities. Yes, cows in flower crowns! How adorable is that? More information can be found on the Seiser Alm website.
5. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Just imagine gliding through the frosted landscape, wrapped in blankets, with the sound of crunching snow beneath the horses’ hooves. Departing from Compatsch, you can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter months to soak in the dreamy scenery. Or alternatively, this is offered in the summer months as a horse-drawn carriage ride - but I personally feel like this activity is made for winter!
When to Visit Seiser Alm
The main hiking season on Alpe di Siusi typically runs from mid-May through October, when the gondolas are operating. Here's an overview of each season:
Late May to June: The meadows burst with colorful blooms typically by mid-June, though some higher elevation trails might still have patches of snow. This is a great time to visit, before the peak summer season begins.
July to August: Peak hiking season with the most reliable weather and all facilities open. Expect heavy crowds though, especially on weekends.
September to late October: My personal favorite time! The weather is still generally fantastic, crowds thin out after summer holidays, and the autumn colors are stunning during the month of October. Plus, you might catch the Almabtrieb festival.
December to late March: Winter turns Europe's largest alpine meadow into a snow-covered wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and even just a cozy mountain getaway amidst the frosty landscape.
Alpe di Siusi Webcam
Before your visit, I highly recommend checking the live webcam feeds from Alpe di Siusi. They give you real-time views of current weather conditions and visibility, which can help you effectively game plan your hiking day.
You can find official webcams on the Alpe di Siusi tourism website, showing views from various points across the plateau including Compatsch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How difficult are the hikes in Alpe di Siusi?
A: Most trails are surprisingly easy! The plateau's gentle terrain makes it perfect for a casual hiking day, with well-marked paths and minimal elevation gain on the most popular routes. You can, of course, very easily find more difficult trails if desired.
Q: Do I need special hiking gear?
A: For the basic panoramic loops, regular walking shoes with good grip are plenty. However, I always recommend bringing layers, a rain jacket, and sun protection since mountain weather can change quickly. I've been sunburnt at Alpe di Siusi on multiple occasions, since there is very little shade - sunscreen is a must!
Q: How busy does Alpe di Siusi get?
A: Peak summer weekends can be intensely crowded, especially directly around the gondola stations and most accessible viewpoints. For more peace and quiet, visit early in the morning (drive up the access road before 9 AM, if you have a car), late afternoon, and ideally during weekdays.
Q: How long do I need at Seiser Alm?
A: To fully soak in the beauty of Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi), plan to spend at least a full day exploring. This gives you ample time to enjoy your hike (or hikes!), have a leisurely meal at one of the mountain huts, and take in the views at a relaxed pace. However, if you have more time to spare, staying two to three days is never a bad idea! You can tackle longer trails, catch both sunrise and sunset when the plateau is at its quietest, and even dive into some extra activities like cycling or paragliding.
Q: Is it worth staying overnight on the plateau?
A: Yes! Having access during the hours when the gondolas are closed means you can enjoy magical sunrise and sunset views with almost no people around.
Q: Are Compatsch and Compaccio the same town?
A: Yes, they are. Compatsch is the German name, while Compaccio is the Italian name for the same village at the gateway to Alpe di Siusi. Since the area is located in South Tyrol, a region with German, Italian and Ladin-speaking populations, you'll see most places referred to by two or three names.
Final Thoughts
My biggest piece of advice? Give yourself more time than you think you'll need. Alpe di Siusi has a way of slowing you down in the best possible way - you'll want to linger at viewpoints, chat with fellow hikers over mountain hut meals (if you happen to speak the same language!), and just soak in the peaceful alpine atmosphere with the magical sound of cow bells echoing throughout the hills.
Looking for more Dolomites travel guides? Read about these locations next: Lago di Carezza, the Seceda ridgeline, Cinque Torri, Passo Gardena, Val di Funes, and Lago di Braies.
Buon viaggio!
Have a nice trip!
More Dolomites, Italy Planning Guides:
How To Visit The Seceda Ridgeline in the Dolomites
How to Visit Passo Gardena: Everything You Need to Know
How to Visit Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
How to Visit Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes
How to Get to Cinque Torri in the Dolomites (3 Best Ways + Map)
Ultimate Guide to Lago di Carezza (Karersee) in the Dolomites
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Alpe di Siusi Hiking Guide: How to Visit Seiser Alm & Best Trails for First Timers
