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Picture this: you're standing on a breathtaking ridge, surrounded by jaw-dropping views of rugged mountains, lush green meadows, and stunning vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

You’ve made it to the Seceda Ridgeline, an iconic gem of a location nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This is a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking, landscape photography, or a mix of all of the above! (*Promptly raises hand*)

Yes, this is also a very famous “Instagram” location. However, it’s one that is absolutely worth the hype, especially if you get a little off the beaten path. You shouldn’t visit the Dolomites without seeing Seceda for yourself! This ridgeline is one of the most spectacular views in the region, and it’s super easy to access. No hiking is required to get there, unless you want to.

In this guide, we'll dive into how to reach Seceda, where to explore, what the most beautiful viewpoints are, and more. I’ll also give you tips on the best times to visit for less crowds and good weather, as well as some of the very best places to stay nearby. Let's go!

Table of Contents:

Introduction
Where is Seceda?
How to Get to the Seceda Ridgeline

Best Option: Gondola + Cable Car from Ortisei
Col Raiser Gondola + Fermeda Chairlift
Hike from Val Gardena
Helicopter

What to See on the Seceda Ridgeline (Best Photo Spots)
When to visit Seceda Ridgeline
Where to Eat on Seceda Mountain
Where to Stay near Seceda
FAQ
Final thoughts

Where is Seceda?

Seceda is part of the Geisler group within the Puez-Odle Natural Park, nestled in the the northern part of Val Gardena in northern Italy's beautiful South Tyrol region.

This is all a part of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in northeastern Italy. Known for its dramatic peaks and serene alpine pastures, it's a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. But since you've landed on this guide, I'm sure you already know that!

The nearest towns from which you can access the Seceda Ridgeline are Ortisei (also known as "St. Ulrich" or "Urtijëi") and Santa Cristina di Val Gardena. These picturesque towns provide the perfect starting points for your Seceda adventure, each offering that quintessential alpine charm and convenient access to the ridgeline.

Ortisei, the main gateway to Seceda, is about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Venice Marco Polo Airport, or just over 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Innsbruck Airport in Austria.

How to Get to the Seceda Ridgeline

Visiting Seceda is such an incredible experience, and getting there can be anything from leisurely to a full-blown adventure. Here are the best 4 ways to get to this amazing mountaintop:

1. Gondola + Cable Car from Ortisei (Easiest Option)

The easiest, fastest and most popular way to get to the Seceda Ridgeline is by taking the gondola and cable car from Ortisei. It’s super convenient and you’ll be treated to amazing views as you go up! Just be aware that since this is the easiest option, it’s also hands-down the busiest. Visit during off-peak dates and hours for a much calmer experience.

This is a two-part journey, which is combined into one ticket. On ticket websites, the route will look like this: Ortisei - Furnes - Seceda.

First: you'll take the gondola from the town of Ortisei. These gondolas look like a typical ski mountain gondola, seating only a handful of people.

Next: once the gondola drops you off (halfway up), you'll board the cable car for a quick final ascent to the Seceda Ridgeline. Keep your tickets handy for this transfer, since you will need to scan them again to board the cable car.

The entire two-part ride is around 15-20 minutes, offering stunning views of the Dolomites as you glide over lush meadows. This option is perfect for those who want to reach the top quickly and start exploring without a lengthy hike.

Bonus: the gondola base station is located right in the town of Ortisei, so if you're staying in town, you can simply walk there! (Google Maps link for the station)

Tickets for the gondola and cable car can be purchased at the base station in Ortisei, or you can book online in advance. If you purchase tickets online, you will have a QR code to scan - no need to collect physical tickets at the ticket booth.

Tickets are €52 per person for a round-trip journey. Or alternatively, €44 for only uphill, and €39 for only downhill.

Parking at the gondola station is a separate fee of €3 per hour during daytime hours, or €0.80 per hour overnight. There is a covered parking garage and an outdoor parking lot attached right to the station.

This method of reaching Seceda is open seasonally, typically from the end of May until the beginning of November. It is also only open between 8:30am - 5:30pm daily.

>> Seasonal lift schedule + purchase tickets in advance

Other Options:

2. Col Raiser Gondola + Fermeda Chairlift

If you're looking for a slightly less busy option for reaching the top of Seceda, the Col Raiser Gondola + Fermeda Chairlift route is a perfect alternative. The Col Raiser gondola station is based in Selva di Val Gardena, which is one of the neighboring towns to Ortisei within Val Gardena.

The total ride time for this journey is slightly longer than the Ortisei option, since you will need to walk to a separate chair lift station (Fermeda Chairlift) after getting off the Col Raiser gondola, but the scenic views make it well worth it.

The Col Raiser gondola is typically open from late May through the beginning of November, but the Fermeda chairlift (the second half of the journey, which takes you all the way up to the top) is only open from late June until late September.

Tickets for the Col Raiser gondola are €32 round-trip, or €21 one way.

You also have the option to stay at the beautiful Almhotel Col Raiser, a 4 star hotel perched at the top of the Col Raiser gondola! This is a perfect spot to catch a gondola up to, stay overnight, and then hike the rest of the way up for sunrise.

>> Col Raiser Gondola open dates, times & tickets

3. Hike from Val Gardena

If you love a good challenge, hiking from Val Gardena to the Seceda Ridgeline is a proper full-day adventure. The trail is well-marked and the views are absolutely breathtaking. There are multiple route options for hiking up to Seceda, but one of the most popular trails departs from Santa Cristina, and is roughly 5.3 miles one-way.

To cut off some of the hiking time and make your journey a bit easier, you could opt to take the Col Raiser gondola up to the halfway point, skip the Fermeda chairlift, and instead carry on hiking the rest of the way to the Seceda Ridgeline.

4. Helicopter

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, why not take a helicopter ride to the Seceda Ridgeline? It's perfect for anyone wanting a bit of luxury, or maybe you're celebrating a special event like an anniversary or elopement day!

Yes, it's the pricey option, but the perspective of the Dolomites you get is truly one of a kind. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and an amazing bird’s-eye view of the stunning scenery!

Helicopters can land right below the ridgeline, next to Baita Sofie Hutte, which is only a 5-10 minute walk from the very top viewpoints. Check out Elikos Helicopter Service for more information.

PS. Getting married in the area? Shameless plug: let’s talk about elopement photography in the Dolomites!

*Helicopters will land at the top of Seceda, right behind Baita Sofie Hutte*

What to See on the Seceda Ridgeline

Once you've reached the Seceda Ridgeline, prepare to be amazed by the views - they're truly breathtaking. This entire area is the highlight, but here are a few specific points of interest:

1. Viewpoint of the Fermeda Towers

The Fermeda Towers are the exact reason you visit Seceda in the first place! You know those jagged, rocky peaks that you see in everyone's photos? Those are known as the Fermeda Towers.

Just a short walk uphill from the Furnes - Seceda cable car station, you'll find the iconic viewpoint looking out over the Seceda Ridgeline and Fermeda Towers. The viewpoint has a stunning panorama of the jagged peaks and rolling alpine meadows beneath them.

Take your time wandering around this high ground, and make your way slowly out closer and closer to the peaks themselves. That way, you’ll be able to capture the incredible Seceda mountain views from various points along the upper ridgeline trail.

2. Explore All Over the Grassy Meadows

The grassy alpine meadows of Seceda are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The vibrant green landscapes are dotted with wildflowers in the summer, creating a fairytale-like setting that's perfect for relaxing (or hiking!) in.

Take your time to wander through the meadows, and even consider popping into a rifugio (mountain hut) for a bite to eat or a coffee. Two popular spots at the top of Seceda are Baita Sofie Hutte and Baita Troier Hutte. The views while sipping a cappuccino in these locations are honestly hard to believe.

Important note: many areas of the alpine meadows are fenced off for sustainability reasons, in efforts to preserve this idyllic landscape for many years to come. Please mind the signage, and do not hop over the fences!

3. Twin Peaks of Pieralongia

For those up for a longer walk, the twin peaks of Pieralongia (sometime referred to as the “rabbit ears”) are a unique and slightly more hidden gem type of sight. This area is far less crowded, since it’s a decent little trek away from the main cable car, giving you a much more peaceful photo experience.

The hike to Pieralongia takes you through lush green pastures and rocky terrain, all leading up to the unique pointed rock formation. The trail is technically to the Pieralongia Hut, where you can even stop for some homemade pastries, a local snack and fresh milk.

>> Trail info can be found here

*Part of the trail to & from Pieralongia*

When to Visit Seceda Ridgeline

The timing of your visit to the Seceda Ridgeline can make or break your experience. Here’s what you need to know:

Best Season

The best time to visit Seceda for hiking is from mid-June to mid-September. During this period, the weather is generally summery, and the trails are clear of snow, making it ideal for hiking and photography.

June and September are highly recommended, since they offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the absolute busiest month of August. Take it from someone who lives here in northern Italy: avoid August whenever possible - it’s just simply too busy.

More interested in winter sports? Yes, you can ski and snowboard right on Seceda! How epic is that? The ski season for this area typically runs early December - early April.

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit Seceda, especially if you’re looking to capture some stunning photos. The soft light during these hours makes the natural beauty of the landscape absolutely pop, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the peaks' textures.

Plus, you'll avoid the midday crowds, allowing for a much more peaceful experience! Be aware that if you take the gondola + cable car from Ortisei, the lift runs between 8:30am - 5:30pm during peak season.

Where to Eat on Seceda Mountain

Yes, you can have a delicious meal right on Seceda, with those incredible jagged peaks as your backdrop! There are several charming mountain huts (rifugios) to check out:

Baita Sofie Hutte

Baita Sofie Hutte is a popular spot, since it's located just a couple minutes away from the cable car station at the top of Seceda. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local specialties, from hearty soups to flavorful pasta dishes, you can't go wrong here. The best part: you can enjoy your meal on the open-air terrace with panoramic views of the Dolomites.

Baita Troier Hutte

Another great dining option is Baita Troier Hutte, known for its gorgeous setting, delicious Tyrolean cuisine, and some adorable farm animals. It's a slightly further walk from the main cable car station (~20 minutes), but that also means the opportunity for less crowds.

Whether you’re in the mood for a caffeine boost or a full meal, this hut is a perfect break spot during your adventures. Don’t miss their Buchteln (traditional cake) with vanilla cream for dessert!

Other Places to Eat on Seceda:

All of these mountain huts aren’t too far of a trek from the top cable car station.

Where to Stay Near Seceda

Planning to stay near Seceda while visiting the Dolomites? I highly recommend this! That way, it will be easier to get to the gondola right when they open for the day. Or, you'll be able to start your hike up to Seceda first thing in the morning. Consider these options for nearby accommodations:

Hotels in Ortisei

For those taking the Ortisei gondola + cable car, consider staying in one of the many beautiful hotels right in Ortisei. The town itself is incredibly charming, with pedestrian-only streets, plenty of great restaurants, and a very short walk from downtown (anywhere from 5-10 minutes) to the gondola for Seceda.

Luxury 5 ⭐

Boutique 4 ⭐

Mid-Range 3 ⭐

Hotels in Santa Cristina & Selva

If you’re opting for the Col Raiser lift, Santa Cristina or Selva di Val Gardena is the perfect base. These neighboring towns offer tons of comfortable hotels and guesthouses, giving you easy access to the gondola plus gorgeous views.

Luxury 5 ⭐

Hotel Granbaita Dolomites

Boutique 4 ⭐

Monte Pana Hotel
Dorfhotel Beludei
Almhotel Col Raiser (located at the top of the Col Raiser gondola)

Mid-Range 3 ⭐

Hotel Ciamp

Rifugios on the Trail

If you’re planning to hike to Seceda, staying at a rifugio (mountain hut) is a unique and must-do experience while in the Dolomites.

Rifugio Fermeda (location) and Rifugio Firenze (location) are well-located along the trails, offering basic yet cozy accommodations along the trails. Enjoy the company of fellow hikers and wake up to breathtaking views of the mountains!

FAQ

Q: How do I get to the Seceda Ridgeline?

A: You can reach the Seceda Ridgeline by gondola and cable car from Ortisei, or by gondola and chairlift from Selva di Val Gardena. My top recommended route is typically the gondola + cable car option that departs from Ortisei, mainly for ease. Alternatively, you can hike from Val Gardena or take a helicopter ride for a super unique excursion.

Q: Is Seceda worth it?

A: Absolutely! Seceda offers breathtaking views, plenty of hiking trails, and a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Dolomites. Seceda is a must-visit destination for any and all types of travelers - whether you're an avid hiker, a photographer, or someone who loves a casual adventure with stunning views!

Q: How long does it take to hike up to Seceda?

A: The hike from Santa Cristina Val Gardena to Seceda typically takes around 3-4 hours each way, depending on your pace. Trail information can be found here. You can cut off a large portion of that time by taking the Col Raiser gondola part of the way up.

Q: Can you reach Seceda by car?

A: No, you can't drive directly to Seceda. The most common ways to reach the ridgeline are by gondola, cable car, hiking, or helicopter.

Q: Do you need to buy Seceda cable car tickets in advance?

A: While it’s not required, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This significantly reduces wait times at the base stations, since the lines can get very long very quickly at the ticket counter.

Q: How long is the cable car ride to Seceda?

A: The gondola + cable car ride that departs from Ortisei (the easiest option for getting to Seceda) takes roughly 15-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning a visit to the Seceda Ridgeline in the peak season (June - September), get ready for an absolutely breathtaking summer day of exploring! You'll be surrounded by epic landscapes that are perfect for hiking, taking photos, or simply just relaxing in. This is easily one of my top 5 locations in the Dolomites, and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.

Use this guide to dream up ideas for your trip, choose how you want to get up the top, and plan everything for a one day excursion to the Seceda Ridgeline.

Buon viaggio!
Have a nice trip!

More Northern Italy planning guides:

How to Visit Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Ultimate Guide to Lago di Carezza (Karersee) in the Dolomites
How to Visit Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes
How to Get to Cinque Torri in the Dolomites (3 Best Ways + Map)
How to Visit Passo Gardena - Everything You Need to Know
Alpe di Siusi Hiking Guide: How to Visit Seiser Alm & Best Trails for First Timers

How to Spend 24 Hours in Venice, Italy
How to Get to Venice from Marco Polo Airport
10 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Venice, Italy
How to Get a Gondola Ride in Venice

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How to Visit the Seceda Ridgeline in the Dolomites

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Where is Seceda?

How to Get to the Seceda Ridgeline

1. Gondola + Cable Car from Ortisei (Easiest Option)