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Helping You Explore South Tyrol & the Dolomites

Seiser Alm

Eloping in Italy: A Majestic Mountain Wedding in the Dolomites

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Eloping in Italy: A Majestic Mountain Wedding in the Dolomites 1
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Ever dreamed of eloping in Italy? The Dolomites provide a wondrous backdrop for a dreamy destination wedding that will utterly wow you and your guests.

Imagine the joy of exchanging vows amid some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. We were beyond thrilled to help Natalie and David Heinrich do just that this past fall.

After seeing many others go through the stress of planning a large traditional wedding, they decided an intimate destination wedding was the better choice. We asked Natalie and David to share their South Tyrol wedding experience with us. Whether you are considering eloping in Italy or simply curious about what a wedding in the Dolomites is like, this interview is sure to elevate your romantic aspirations.

⇒ Considering a wedding in the Alps? Work with us to plan the wedding of your dreams!

Why did you choose South Tyrol as your wedding destination?

“SOUTH TYROL IS SUCH A ROMANTIC PLACE FOR A COUPLE TO ELOPE. IT CAN BE AS RELAXING OR ADVENTUROUS AS YOU WANT.”

We were actually planning to get married in Lofoten, Norway but with the travel restrictions in place during the pandemic, we were unable to enter Norway in September 2021. We made a last-minute decision to find an alternative destination and in our hasty internet searches, each of us stumbled upon the Dolomites and decided it was meant to be! David is a pilot for Delta Air Lines and travels quite a lot so it was important for us to go somewhere he had never been. We also wanted it to be a place with beautiful scenery and quaint towns and South Tyrol fit the bill.

Can you tell us a little about what the ceremony and reception were like?

We traveled with only our immediate families (10 people total) and thus had a very intimate wedding day. We took a cable car up to Alpe di Siusi and meandered through the meadows until we found a beautiful backdrop for our ceremony (the towering Sassolungo massif). Our ceremony consisted of some readings by our family members, sharing vows, saying prayers, exchanging rings, and a champagne toast at the end! Everyone agreed it was the most memorable wedding we’ve all attended because everyone was able to play a role. There were lots of tears shed!

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No dress shoes here. A wedding in the Dolomites requires proper vintage footwear.

We then walked to Malga Schgaguler Schwaige for lunch and the staff graciously offered us grappa to celebrate. It was so fun to walk around Alpe di Siusi in our wedding attire and we received many words of congratulations from other tourists and locals in many languages we couldn’t understand.

We spent some of the afternoon taking fun photos in the meadow and also did some beautiful sunset photos at Compatsch with Schlern mountain in the background. We ended the night with an incredible dinner with our families at Tubladel in Ortisei. Tubladel even changed their “off” night to make sure they were open for our special occasion. True South Tyrolean hospitality.

Would you recommend a wedding in South Tyrol to other couples?

Absolutely! Everything in South Tyrol is so accessible by car, cable car, and foot, making it easy to see a lot of sites in a short amount of time. We also thoroughly enjoyed the accommodations, shops, restaurants, and wineries in the area. It was the perfect destination for a group of 10 as we could meet up and hike during the day and find a great spot to eat at night. South Tyrol is such a romantic place for a couple to elope. It can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want.

“THE HOSPITALITY OF ALL OF THE LOCALS MADE US FEEL SO SPECIAL.”

All the local businesses we used from the restaurants to the florist and more were perfect. They were so responsive, even on a short timeline. You really couldn’t go wrong with choosing this region.

What was the highlight of your wedding day in South Tyrol?

It’s impossible to pick one highlight. From start to finish, the day was a dream. Our ceremony was so meaningful — from the intimacy of the readings and vows to the incredible mountain views to the cowbells just over the hill.

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Wedding day bliss at 6,500+ ft!

The hospitality of all of the locals made us feel so special. The only thing missing was a lot of our friends and family but we took a moment of silence in the pasture to honor those who weren’t with us and we truly felt their presence.

What was the most challenging part about eloping in Italy?

We had only about 4 weeks to plan our trip, which initially felt stressful and rushed, but Throne & Vine truly put us at ease by putting together the most amazing itinerary for us. It was so helpful to have personal recommendations for hikes, restaurants, and our ceremony location.

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We knew that we couldn’t go wrong in South Tyrol but it was our wedding day and we wanted it to be perfect! Our photographer was not familiar with the area but with Kate and Vin’s recommendations, we found some amazing places for photos.

Your photos are gorgeous! How did you select your photographer?

We found Ingvild Kolnes online when we were planning to get married in Norway. We held Zoom meetings with her leading up to our wedding date to get to know her and plan our elopement. Ingvild has previously spent much of her career shooting weddings and elopements in Norway but with Norway being closed to international travelers for much of the pandemic, she graciously offered to travel with us to Italy. She even arrived in Ortisei two days prior to the wedding so she could seek out great photography spots. We are immensely grateful that she decided to join us for our South Tyrol adventure!

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Love Natalie’s dress? So do we! She shared that is from BHLDN (pronounced “Beholden”), which is the bridal shop associated with Anthropologie.

If you are considering an elopement or destination wedding, finding a photographer who specializes in this type of wedding is a must. Our photos turned out beautifully and we have so many of them printed and framed around our house!

Did you have to fill out any special paperwork to get married in Italy?

“AS AN INTIMATE WEDDING DESTINATION, SOUTH TYROL IS TRULY A GREAT FIND.”

We got legally married in the United States by our pastor so we did not do any of the legal paperwork in Italy. We looked into the process in Italy and it seemed too complicated, plus we didn’t want to waste our special time in Italy dealing with paperwork and waiting in lines at the U.S. Embassy or wherever we would need to go. We signed our paperwork in the United States as more of a send-off than a ceremony, and then completed our ceremony in Italy on the mountain.

Oftentimes with international weddings/elopements, couples opt to get married legally in their home country and then do a “symbolic ceremony” elsewhere. We still view our Italian wedding day as our true anniversary date (“9/14/22” was even embroidered into David’s wedding suit!).

Did you have a backup plan in case the weather was poor on Alpe di Siusi on the day of your ceremony?

We did not! With our initial plan to get married in Norway, we fully expected rain on our wedding day and planned our attire accordingly. Natalie packed fleece-lined leggings and a water-resistant Fjallraven jacket in case it got cold, but neither one was needed on our day on Alpe di Siusi! She did her own hair and practiced it ahead of time to ensure it would be a hairstyle that would withstand wind and rain.

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A grand toast to the newlyweds at Malga Schgaguler Schwaige!

Waterproof makeup is also a must for any wedding, especially outdoors. Had it rained on Alpe di Siusi, we may have shifted our timeline for the day to avoid the rain, or found a ceremony spot somewhat covered by trees. We were extremely lucky with the perfect conditions for the day.

Any tips for couples planning on eloping in Italy?

If you are planning an elopement, we would recommend finding a photographer who specializes in shooting elopements and knows the area well to take you to less popular spots. We would also recommend connecting with travel advisors such as Throne & Vine to discover unique photo locations.

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We wanted our day to feel completely stress-free and natural. Having a photographer skilled in capturing us just enjoying the day rather than posing awkwardly was so great.

If you are eloping in Italy during peak season, we would recommend booking reservations at restaurants and wineries in advance. We traveled to South Tyrol during the pandemic and it was relatively easy to show up at restaurants and wineries without reservations, but as travel continues bouncing back that will likely not always be the case. Those eloping in South Tyrol must get accommodations with a view of the mountains! The glasses of wine we sipped on the balconies will be memorable forever.

Anything you would change looking back?

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We would have planned our wedding to be in South Tyrol from the get-go rather than our original plan of Norway given the complications of the pandemic. Since our wedding day in September 2021, a few of our family members have coincidentally visited Lofoten, Norway, where we would have gotten married, and they all agreed that South Tyrol was a better wedding destination for this type of ‘elopement’ with family. That being said, we cannot wait to visit Lofoten sometime on our own as a quieter retreat.

As an intimate wedding destination, South Tyrol is truly a great find. I don’t think we would have changed anything about our trip but if we had more time, we may have done more rifugio-to-rifugio hiking and may have stayed in Merano longer (we only had 1 day as our honeymoon was in Tuscany).

Finally, Do you have a favorite destination in the Dolomites?

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We absolutely loved the town of Ortisei and are glad we spent the majority of our time there.

Our favorite hike was Tre Cime di Lavaredo. We were so thankful to be one of the first few people out on the trail that morning to beat the crowds. It was a foggy morning which created a dramatic backdrop at times. Wild animals, wildflowers, and wild mountain peaks all showing up in waves of fog — a very cool experience we will never forget.

All photos credited to Ingvild Kolnes

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Spellbound in the Dolomites: Hiking the Witches’ Mountain

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Spellbound in the Dolomites: Hiking the Witches' Mountain 10
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One does not simply walk in the Dolomites… without knowing its spine-chilling folklore. In this post, we share a bit of South Tyrol’s witching past and how to visit the fabled sights of “Witches’ Mountain”.

Autumn in South Tyrol. The ravishing beauty of the season here leaves you breathless. But imagine for a moment that it is 900 years ago. The Dark Ages of Europe. When the death rattle of summer summoned dread — awakening one’s most primal fears.

A time when autumn’s vanishing light meant the rustling behind you was no longer leaves fleeting in the wind, but instead the stalking of something vile and wicked. A shadow snaking along the ground, no longer the lurch of a crooked ash, but a grim evil coveting your flesh and bone.

In the Dolomites of South Tyrol, such haunting mental conjurings were not without justification. This mountainous outpost of northern Italy is a land once shackled by superstition. Nightmares manifested into reality when the sun went down. And witchcraft was suspected to be widespread.

When you hike here, especially in the fall, it is easy to see how such deep-seated folkloric beliefs arose. The mountains seem to move with the mist. And when the peaks do finally reveal themselves, their storm-cursed faces growl like godforsaken gravestones of the unloved dead.

The Mountain Witches of Alpe di Siusi

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A corner of the Dolomites with tales particularly ripe for October is Schlern Mountain. Schlern (also known as “Sciliar” in Italian) storms skyward from the yawning pastures of Alpe di Siusi – Europe’s largest Alpine prairie. The mountain manifests a jarring contrast against the sleepy landscape. A beautiful yet unsettling scene for any trekker.

All who hike here should know they follow in the footsteps of actual witches who once held gatherings on the hulking massif. According to local legend, witches long ago met every Thursday on Schlern where they performed black magic rituals and sacrifices in communion with the Devil. Carbonized remains found on the mountain give credence to the ghoulish practice.

The Schlern witches were also thought to spawn savage storms that would descend like packs of wolves from the mountain’s horned peaks. 

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Goats gather beneath the Witches’ Mountain (also known as Schlern / Sciliar).

In fact, one legend tells of a bull grazing the rolling hills near the village of Seis, just below the mountain and discovering a bell in the earth. The villagers hung the mysterious bell in the bulbous spire of the ancient St. Valentin Chapel. When storms reigned down, the residents would fervently ring the bell to break the witches’ spell.

Hikers can visit a revered site of the witches known as the “Witches’ Benches” (Hexenbänke in German) located on Mount Bullaccia (Puflatsch). Bullaccia lies to the north of Schlern mountain offering jaw-dropping views of Alpe di Siusi and beyond.

The Witches’ Benches grip the imagination. They are contorted rock formations resembling places for sitting. Upon seeing them, you can find yourself believing they were once the sacred seats of a witches’ coven. Interestingly, it is not known if the stone thrones are natural formations or the work of ancient people. Mystery forever marks the mountainside.

⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Terror by Lantern Light: Tempting Krampus in South Tyrol

A Witch’s Curse

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A story still told today in Alpe di Siusi is the tale of a local man named Hansel, who once shot a witch with his rifle. Hansel and his wife were simple farmers who lived in a mountain hut on the pasture. One day, while performing their daily chores an eerie silence fell on the land and a dreadfulness filled the air. They noticed a heathen’s shadow sweep across the sky. 

Hansel grabbed his rifle, blessed it with Holy Water and fired at the witch. The bullet knocked the witch off her broom and she thundered to the ground. When Hansel approached the dead witch, the sight of her hideousness cursed him until his death.

Not all the legends of this area are rooted in fantastical fables. Sitting in the shadow of Schlern is Prösels Castle. Built more than 800 years ago, this South Tyrolean medieval stronghold holds a horrid history.

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Kate admiring the Prosels Castle
Prösels Castle was once the site of witch trials in South Tyrol.

In the 16th century, the Lord of the castle accused nine women of practicing witchcraft. He had them tortured until they confessed. Their crime? Stealing babies and riding upon brooms to Schlern where they feasted on the flesh of newborns with the Devil. After their trial, the Lord had them burnt at the stake. 

Today, the castle is a feast for the eyes. A remarkable example of late Gothic architecture. Tourists can enjoy guided visits during the summer and over the Christmas holidays. 

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Have Broom Will Travel

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Getting to Alpe di Siusi is easy…especially if you have a broom. However, those opting for less devilish means of travel can take a cable car in the villages of Ortisei, Seis or Castelrotto. Our guide to hiking Alpe di Siusi provides step-by-step directions to reach the plateau.

If you want to experience South Tyrol’s witch folklore firsthand, we recommend departing from Castelrotto (also known as “Kastelruth” in German). From intricate witch wood carvings to themed shops and restaurants as well as the occasional stray black cat, witchiness abounds from its centuries-old cobblestones. 

Hexenkeller Restaurant in Castelrotto
Restaurants such as Hexenkeller and Schlernhex in Castelrotto pay tribute to the enchanting folklore of the Dolomites.

The best time to hike all around Alpe di Siusi without snow is late May through September. Although the plateau is accessible year-round.

The witching hours of October make a tempting time to explore how land and legend weave together to create folklore that stirs one’s darkest fears. The cable cars still carry adventurers to the top through much of October if the weather allows it.

Another good time to seek out witches on Alpe di Siusi is on Walpurgis Night, which takes place every May 1st. According to locals, Walpurgis Night is when witches, wizards and other wicked spirits meet on Schlern to celebrate the “Witches Sabbath”.

The celebration is said to involve dancing, drinking and feasting until dawn, as well as a guest appearance by the Devil himself in the form of a goat.

For centuries, peasants took measures to protect their cattle on Walpurgis Night. They locked and sealed stable doors with three crosses. In addition, sprigs of ash, hawthorn, juniper, and elder, once sacred to the pagan gods, were used to guard against evil.

However, the night was not filled only with worry. The locals also saw it as a time of omen. Specifically, if it rained. An old saying goes: “On Walpurgis Night rain. Makes good crops of autumn grain.”

⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Hiking Tre Cime di Lavaredo: The Ultimate Guide to Drei Zinnen

How to Reach the Witches’ Benches

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Once you are on the Alpe di Siusi, the Witches’ Benches are about a 1-2 hour hike depending on which cable car you choose.

The mighty Schlern massif forms an unforgettable backdrop for the walk. It menaces from every vantage point leaving no doubt as to why the mountain casts a shadow of mysticism over the alp.

From Castelrotto, take the Marizen Chairlift to the Marizen Alp. Then follow trail no. 9 through the forestland of Tiosels until you come to trail no. 8, which leads to the right up to Alpe di Siusi.

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The Witches’ Chairs above Castelrotto make another hex-worthy trek through dense forests.

On Alpe di Siusi, trail no. 8 will intersect with trail no. 14. Follow it to the left and stay on it until reaching the Witches’ Benches.

On your trek back to Castelrotto, you may wish to stay on trail no. 8 descending further down the slope to another mysterious stone formation shrouded in legend: The Witches’ Chairs (Hexenstühle).

Two stones appear as literally chairs facing the valley. Like the Witches’ Benches, it is not known if these are man-made or oddities of nature.

To return to Castelrotto from the Witches’ Chairs, stay on trail no. 8 until you can take a left on trail no. 7 into town. The hike back is less than an hour.

⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Discover Törggelen: South Tyrol’s Most Treasured Fall Tradition

South Tyrol Casts a Spell

While we hope you don’t spot any witches soaring on brooms during your visit, you can count on the culture and natural beauty of South Tyrol to cast a spell that touches your soul.

It’s a spell you’ll undoubtedly want to share with others, but keep in mind, such bewitching autumn hexes are best left for some to discover on their own. All alone. In the dead of night. When churchyards yawn and hell itself breathes out contagion to this world…

Save the Witches’ Mountain

Hiking Alpe di Siusi: The Ultimate Guide to Seiser Alm

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Alpe di Siusi
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Alpe di Siusi (also known as Seiser Alm) in Italy is one of the Alps’ most treasured hiking destinations. Here’s everything you need to visit this rollicking meadowland of the Dolomites.

Awe-inspiring. Breathtaking. Majestic. All words you may have heard describing Alpe di Siusi. But the one you really need to know before visiting is “vast.” Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest mountain plateau. Picture an area even bigger than Manhattan soaring thousands of feet above the valley floor.

With 270+ miles (440+ km) of trails and rustic mountain taverns throughout Alpe di Siusi, you could spend an entire holiday in South Tyrol exploring the area. The options to explore the landscape can be overwhelming.

In this post, you will discover how to intimately experience the heart-pounding scenery of Alpe di Siusi including the Sassolungo (Langkofel), Sassopiato (Plattkofel) and Schlern (Sciliar) massifs in all their glory. We detail our favorite hiking routes and show you the variety of beauty to expect with and without snow. In addition, we share a bounty of tips such as how to reach the plateau, where to eat (you must dine up here), where to stay and additional sights to consider while visiting Alpe di Siusi

⇒ Get step-by-step instructions: Download our Alpe di Siusi hiking guide

Alpe di Siusi Overview

Hiking Alpe di Siusi, Italy
Alpe di Siusi offers endless hiking opportunities in every season.

Alpe di Siusi is a soul-stirring dreamland for outdoor enthusiasts of any age. Anchored by thundering mountains all around, its trails gently wind in between peaceful farms, ancient evergreen forests and billowy meadows. You can be lost in the unbridled brawn of Sassolungo one moment and the effortless beauty of a wildflower the next.

The number of peaks you can admire on Alpe di Siusi may only be rivaled by hiking Tre Cime di Lavaredo. But unlike, Tre Cime, you can comfortably enjoy these mountains in any season.

  • Hiking Time: Multiple days if you wish. The round-trip hikes we highlight will take 4-5 hours
  • Top Sights: Schlern Mountain, Sassolungo Group, Rosengarten Group, Seceda Ridgeline, Sella Group
  • Hiking Difficulty: Easy
  • Size of Alpe di Siusi: 34 sq. miles (56 sq. km)
  • Number of Trails Available: 60+
  • Altitude: 5,200 to 9,700+ ft (1,600 to 2,950+ m). The meadowland lies at 5,200+ ft.

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Where is Alpe di Siusi

Before we jump into specifics on this hike, let us paint a clear picture of where Alpe di Siusi is located. The name of the plateau can cause some confusion for travelers as it also denotes a broader holiday region in the Dolomites.

The Alpe di Siusi holiday region includes the plateau as well as villages and valleys lying far below to its north and west. Also often associated with the plateau is the holiday region of Val Gardena, which lies to its northeast.

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As we detail below, both holiday regions serve as excellent launching points for hiking Alpe di Siusi. The nearest major town from Val Gardena is Ortisei (St. Ulrich) while the nearest in the Alpe di Siusi holiday region is Castelrotto (Kastelruth).

Whether beginning your hike from Val Gardena or Alpe di Siusi, the hiking route we cover is the same. The only difference is your starting and endpoint. 

By the way, you do not need to base yourself in either holiday region to enjoy Alpe di Siusi while visiting South Tyrol. You can be on the plateau in only 40-60 minutes by car from Bolzano, Brixen or Merano.

How to Get To Alpe di Siusi

You have three main options to reach the top of Alpe di Siusi: by foot, cable car or automobile/bus. Using a cable car to visit Alpe di Siusi is the most popular way to reach the plateau. In a matter of minutes, you can be amid the jaw-dropping splendor of the Dolomites.

Which lift you choose to use should depend on where you are based. If you are not sure where to base yourself in South Tyrol, connect with us to help you make the best decision based on your interests and aspirations.

Alpe di Siusi Cable Car Option #1

Alpe di Siusi Mont Seuc Cable Car
The Mont Sëuc Cable Car zips you to the top of Alpe di Siusi in 10 minutes.

Those in or near Val Gardena should plan to take the Mont Sëuc Cable Car (Mont Sëuc means Alpe di Siusi in Ladin), which is located near the heart of Ortisei. Here are the step-by-step directions to take the Mont Sëuc lift:

  • If arriving in Ortisei by car, you have a couple of parking options to consider. You can park in the underground garage at the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station or at the underground “Garage Central” parking lot in the center of Ortisei. From Garage Central it is just a 5-minute walk through town and over a foot/bike bridge to the station. Both parking areas are nicely located if you intend to also explore Ortisei.
  • Once at the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station, purchase a round-trip ticket. The cost for 2022 is € 23.90 per person.
  • To reach the cable car boarding area, insert the ticket into the turnstile ticket slot. Then wait for a station staff member to direct you to board an available cable car. Sit back and soak in the views on the way up. To the east, the Seceda mountain massif and alp will gradually reveal themselves.

Alpe di Siusi Cable Car Option #2

Alpe di Siusi Cable Car

Those staying in the Alpe di Siusi holiday region near Castelrotto should plan to take the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway up from the village of Seis. In 2022, the cable car cost is € 20,00 per person for a round-trip ticket.

If you arrive at the lift station by car, you can park at the multi-level garage next to the ticket office. The cost to park for the day is € 5,00.

Reaching Alpe di Siusi by Car

Driving to Alpe di Siusi
If driving to Alpe di Siusi, park at the P2 lot in Compatsch.

To keep Alpe di Siusi as pristine as possible, automobile traffic is restricted on the plateau. If you wish to drive up, you can do so before 9 am or after 5 pm by taking the road from Seis to the village of Compatsch (Compaccio). The only exception to this restriction is for guests checking in at a hotel located on Alpe di Siusi.

Parking is available on the right side of the road in Compatsch near the Alpe di Siusi visitor center in a lot called P2. The cost to park is € 20,00 per day. There is a lot called P1, but it is not the most convenient location for the best trailheads.

Note: You are allowed to drive down Alpe di Siusi from the parking lot at any time.

Alpe di Siusi Hiking Options

The number of hiking routes you can experience on Alpe di Siusi is virtually endless. Multiple trails criss-cross each other and are well marked allowing free-spirited exploration without ever feeling as if you might get lost. That said, due to its sheer size, we recommend having a hiking plan before visiting Alpe di Siusi.

An Epic Hike from the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station

Alpe di Siusi Hike
The Sassolungo Group greets you the moment you depart the Mont Sëuc Cable Car.

The first Alpe di Siusi hiking route we cover involves setting out from Ortisei in Val Gardena. This hike will carry you past the thunderous faces of the Sassolungo Group and then across the plateau towards the emblematic peak of South Tyrol: Mt. Schlern.

As we detail above, you will take the Mont Sëuc Cable Car to the top of Alpe di Siusi. The ride up is amazing, but the real thrill begins after departing the cable car station. Few sights can rival the roaring beauty of the Sassolungo Group as it first meets your eyes.

Begin your hike by heading left on trail no. 9 towards the Sassolungo Group. The trail will descend through stands of pines until opening into the rolling meadowland.

On your left, you will pass the Malga Schgaguler Schwaige, the first of many mountain huts on Alpe di Siusi. “Schwaige” “Baita” and “Rifugio” are all used to denote mountain huts. These relaxing Alpine sanctuaries have tended to travelers since the Middle Ages.

When you approach a fork in the trail stay on trail no. 9 to the left which will bring you past the Sporthotel Sonne. Follow trail no. 9 for a good distance enjoying the rugged faces of the Sassolungo Group staring down at you. Eventually, you will come to Hartlweg which intersects the trail. Take a right onto Hartlweg.

When Hartlweg runs into trail no. 6B take a right to visit Malga Sanon if you want to take a seat for a bit and soak in the views. If not, take a left onto 6B.

Trail no. 6B will merge into trail no. 9 for a short distance. You will come to an option to take trail no. 3 to the right, but continue on 9 until you come to the second intersection for trail no. 3. Then take a right onto 3 towards Compatsch.

Stay on trail no. 3 until it ends at trail no. 30, which is also known as the Hans & Paula Steger Weg. Named after two South Tyrolean climbing and skiing legends who once called the pasture home.

Take a right onto trail no. 30 and follow it for roughly another 20 minutes until reaching Compatsch. The Sciliar mountain from this stretch is at its most stunning.

If you are ready for a meal, snack or drink at his point, another wonderful nearby hut to visit is Gostner Schwaige. This family-owned establishment is renowned for its homemade alpine cheeses. You can reach Gostner Schwaige within 5 minutes by taking trail no. 6B, which branches off trail no. 30.

Once at the village, you can give your legs a rest at the restaurant in the Nordic Ski Center. It offers a more contemporary setting than the rustic mountain huts you encounter, but the menu serves up delicious pasta if that suits your mid-hike appetite.

After you’re done visiting Compatsch, set out to return to the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station via the same route. You’ll pass by Malga Schgaguler Schwaige again. From their terrace, you can devour a delicious meal and your final views of Sassolungo before zipping back down to Ortisei on the cable car.

⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Seceda

An Epic Hike from Compatsch

Alpe di Siusi Winter Hike
The hike from Compatsch starts near the iconic Mt. Schlern.

If you are interested in spending most of your time in the Alpe di Siusi holiday region, embarking on a hike of Alpe di Siusi itself from Compatsch is an excellent option to choose. Some of South Tyrol’s most alluring villages, churches and castles reside in this holiday region. 

This hiking option follows the same route as above except instead of hiking to the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station, the mid-point for your hike will be the Malga Schgaguler Schwaige before heading back to Compatsch.

You can certainly hike up to the cable car station and enjoy a refreshment and meal there if you wish in their restaurant. But our preference is to dine at Malga Schgaguler Schwaige or Gostner Schwaige.

Here’s the hiking route you will follow from Compatsch. From the parking lot, you will pick up trail no. 30 (Hans & Paula Steger Weg).

Follow trail no. 30 until it intersects with trail no. 3 where you will take a left towards Saltria. Trail no. 3 will eventually merge into trail no. 9 where you will have the option to go left or right. Be sure to follow trail no. 9 to the left.

Stay on trail no. 9 and then take a right onto trail no. 6B. This trail will slowly curve to the east until coming to Hartlweg. Like above, you can stay on 6B to take a break at the Malga Sanon if you wish or take a right to continue trekking across Alpe di Siusi.

Hartlweg will lead you to trail no. 9 where you will take a left. Follow trail no. 9 all the way to Malga Schgaguler Schwaige.

After you have enjoyed a hearty meal and glass of South Tyrolean wine or beer, set out for the return hike to Compatsch. It’s worth pointing out that you do not have to initially take trail no. 9 back if you don’t wish. Take a glance at your map and you will see other trails that eventually bring you to trail no. 30 into Compatsch.

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Where to Eat on Alpe di Siusi

Alpe di Siusi boasts a number of restaurants spread throughout the alp. The hikes we feature here highlight two mountain huts that are not to be missed in our opinion.

Alpe di Siusi Restaurants | Malga Schgaguler Schwaige

Whether you visit them for a meal or simply to have a refreshment with dessert, Malga Schgaguler Schwaige and Gostner Schwaige are one-of-a-kind dining experiences. They specialize in farm-fresh cuisine that is richly comforting and soars with flavor. If the spectacular scenery hasn’t put you in a mountain mood yet, their menus certainly will.

Gostner Schwaige

In terms of ambiance, each restaurant has its own charms. Malga Schgaguler Schwaige, for example, possesses an astounding view of the Sassolungo Group. Gostner Schwaige, on the other hand, offers a postcard-perfect sight of Schlern’s Santer Spitze towering between the trees.

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When to Hike Alpe di Siusi

Alpe di Siusi is a year-round destination. Our favorite time to visit is spring, fall and winter.

Alpe di Siusi Hiking Map

Summer is dazzling of course but like all destinations in the Dolomites, you will have to contend with crowds. That said if you wish to experience Alpe di Siusi when the meadows are in full bloom with wildflowers, you should time your visit from mid-June to mid-July.

If you want to see cows lazily roaming the pastures, visit the plateau beginning in mid-July. The cattle typically are driven up in early July and driven back down by mid-September to early October when the food supply has dwindled.

Those wanting to enjoy the meadowland with a blanket of snow should plan on visiting Alpe di Siusi from November through April. The holiday season is especially beautiful as you can also include South Tyrol’s Christmas markets in your itinerary. But keep in mind, the mountain huts in the Dolomites are not open year-round. Be sure to review the posted signs at the main trailheads to see which huts will be open prior to beginning your hike.

By the way, if you want to embark on another meadowland hike in the Dolomites, consider adding Prato Piazza to your travel plans. This high-mountain plateau is located in Val Pusteria and is like a balcony to some of the grandest peaks in the Dolomites. It is a must-hike especially if you already have plans to visit Lago di Braies or Lago di Dobbiaco.

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Alpe di Siusi Hotels

We recommend staying in the Val Gardena region or the Alpe di Siusi region for a hiking outing on the pasture. Our personal preference is Alpe di Siusi. Staying here places us near other favorite hikes such as the Oachner Höfeweg.

This stunning hiking trail is a hidden gem. It leads through rolling farmsteads flush with vineyards, orchards and chestnut-riddled forests beneath the peaks of the Dolomites. And if you visit in autumn, the Oachner Höfeweg provides a wonderful way to enjoy the festive tradition of Törggelen.

For a resort experience unlike any other, consider the Romantik Hotel Turm. This unique retreat immerses you in beautiful history and art from as far back as the 13th century. You will also be dazzled by the hotel’s sumptuous cuisine and wellness area that guarantees soul-mending relaxation.

Romantik Hotel Turm is nestled in the medieval village of Völs, which sits in the shadow of Schlern allowing access to Alpe di Siusi in a matter of minutes. Learn more in our in-depth review.

⇒ EXPLORE ALPE DI SIUSI HOTELS

Additional Tips for Visiting Alpe di Siusi

Horse Carriage Ride on Alpe di Siusi
  • Instead of hiking consider booking a romantic carriage or sleigh ride across the Alp.
  • Make plans to explore Ortisei and the fascinating tradition of woodcarving in Val Gardena before or after hiking Alpe di Siusi.
  • Alpe di Siusi is home to more than 800 different species of wildflowers. If you’re a plant enthusiast you will have a field day here…no pun intended. Get help identifying flowers with The Dolomites: (Plant Hunters Series) book.
  • The Parish Church of St. Ulrich in Ortisei is well worth a visit as well. Built in the late 1700s, the church’s red bulbous dome is easy to spot making it a beacon for history and architecture lovers. Its interior is among the most gorgeous we have ever seen. Precious frescoes, oil paintings and woodcarvings adorn every inch.
  • The Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (the lift operates until 6 pm from mid-June to mid-October). The station begins operating in mid-May after ski season and closes again in early November before reopening for the ski season typically in December. Mountain weather can impact opening and closing dates so make sure to review the lift schedule.
  • Want to see the sunset on Alpe di Siusi? You’re in luck. Once per week in the summer the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station runs from 7:30 pm to 11:30 pm to allow evening walks and dinner at their restaurant. Review the night schedule to see if the dates align with your trip to South Tyrol.
  • If you are planning to hike in Val Gardena for more than one day, save money by purchasing the Val Gardena Card. This card allows unlimited use of specific lifts and cableways. Note: The Val Gardena card does not provide access to lifts based in the Alpe di Siusi holiday region.
  • Hiking isn’t the only way to enjoy Alpe di Siusi. If you’re a biking enthusiast, consider renting a mountain bike or e-bike. BAMBY rental is located right next to the Mont Sëuc Cable Car Station.
  • Harness the natural energy of Alpe di Siusi to improve your well-being. Be sure to explore the wellness products originating from its meadows. Up to 80 different kinds of grass, herbs and flowers can be found in just a handful of hay from Alpe di Siusi. Local companies like Trehs create natural cosmetic and wellness products based on the ancient wisdom passed down through the ages from the mountains of South Tyrol.
  • If you embark on a hike of Alpe di Siusi from Compatsch, don’t miss a visit to the historic St. Valentin Chapel, which sits below the Schlern massif in Seis. Its steepled beauty has graced the mountain backdrop since 1244.
  • Like all the regions of the Dolomites, Alpe di Siusi is shrouded in age-old legends. Witches long ago performed rituals on the plateau. You can embark on a spell-binding hike from Castelrotto that takes you to the famous “Witches’ Benches”.
  • For recommended hiking gear and clothing to wear while hiking Alpe di Siusi, pick up our South Tyrol Travel Resources. Before any hike, pay attention to the weather forecast as mountain weather can change quickly.

Have you embarked on your own Alpe di Siusi adventure? If so, please share in the comments below any helpful tips, insights and worthwhile hikes.

Plan to Visit Alpe di Siusi? SAVE Seiser Alm to YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

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Hiking Alpe di Siusi: The Ultimate Guide to Seiser Alm 19
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