How to Visit Seceda by Cable Car: Guide to Seeing the Famous Ridge

Get a spectacular view without breaking a sweat

Seceda looks almost unreal.

The jagged mountain peaks rising dramatically into the sky and the wide, green slopes make it one of the most photogenic spots in the Dolomites.

And the best part?

You can get up there easily by cable car – no hiking required!

When we visited the Dolomites for the first time, the trip up to Seceda was one of the first things we did. Maybe that’s why it has stuck so clearly in our memory.

We were completely blown away by the panoramic views and honestly think everyone should see Seceda with their own eyes.

Luckily, it’s also one of the more accessible places in the Dolomites.

In this guide to visiting Seceda by cable car, we’ll share how to get there, parking, practical info about the lifts, the best time to go up the mountain, where to stay nearby, and our top tips for a great experience.

Where to stay near Seceda

Adlinks
• Luxury: Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa – A 5-star hotel perfectly located in Ortisei, just a short walk from the cable car.
• Value for money: Linder Cycling Hotel – Modern, stylish rooms with a spa and pool. Excellent reviews and right in the centre of Selva.
• Value for money: Residence Antares – Apartments in various sizes with an indoor pool and a play area for children. About a 15-minute drive from Selva to the cable car.
• Budget: Garni Sunela B&B – On the pricier end of the budget scale, but with top reviews and a great location in Selva.

Search for the best hotels close to Seceda here (Ortisei) or read our comprehensive guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.

What is Seceda?

Seceda is one of the most iconic peaks in the Dolomites (and with good reason!).

Its distinctive flat top rises more than 2,500 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

In winter, the area draws skiers, while in summer it’s a favourite among hikers and mountain bikers.

Many visit Seceda for the simple reason that it’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Dolomites – and it’s easy to reach, thanks to the cable cars that run all the way to the top.

Map of Seceda

Seceda is located in the South Tyrolean part of the Dolomites in northern Italy.

The mountain sits between two major massifs: the Odle Group (Geislergruppe) to the north and the Sassolungo Massif (Langkofel) to the southeast. It forms part of the Parco Naturale Puez-Odle/Naturpark Puez-Geisler.

From the top, you get a view of the Sella Group, Marmolada (the highest peak in the Dolomites), Sassolungo and many other prominent mountains.

Seceda belongs to the Val Gardena (Gröden) valley, known for its charming villages, ski resorts and hiking trails.

The natural starting point for a visit to Seceda is the town of Ortisei (St. Ulrich in German), where you can take the cable cars up to the top. Also nearby are the towns of Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena.

Why visit Seceda

We’ve already mentioned it, but Seceda is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the entire Dolomites.

And the best part is how easy it is to reach!

The jagged mountain peaks combined with wide, green grasslands really make the place stand out.

Thanks to the cable cars from Ortisei, you can ride all the way up – and from there, how much you explore depends entirely on your mood and energy levels.

It only takes about 10 minutes (uphill) to walk from the top station to the iconic viewpoint.

There are also several longer hiking trails, picnic spots and a few restaurants.

Whether you’re just there to enjoy the view and take a few photos, or you fancy spending half a day hiking in the mountains, Seceda is the kind of place that sticks with you.

Tip: Check this live webcam from Seceda before you head out – mountain weather changes quickly, and it’s a shame to go all the way up if everything’s hidden in clouds.

How to get to Seceda

There are two ways to get up to Seceda: by cable car or on foot.

The cable cars from Ortisei are the easiest and most popular option, but if you’re up for a longer hike, there are also trails that lead up through the beautiful landscape.

In this guide to Seceda, we focus on getting there by cable car, as that’s how we did it ourselves – but we’ll also briefly cover the hiking routes further down.

By cable car

The easiest way to reach Seceda is by taking the cable cars from Ortisei (St. Ulrich) in Val Gardena.

The journey is done in two stages:

• Ortisei-Furnes: First, you take the cabin lift/gondola (with space for 6-8 people) from the centre of Ortisei up to the intermediate station at Furnes. On Google Maps, it appears as Funivie Seceda Spa/Seceda Cable Car.
• Furnes-Seceda: From there, you switch to a larger cable car with standing room for around 30 people, which takes you all the way up to Seceda’s ridge at nearly 2,500 metres above sea level. On Google Maps, this is listed as Secëda «Furnes» 2.

The ride to the top takes around 15 minutes in total, with beautiful views along the way.

The cable cars typically run from late May to early November between 8:30 and 17:30.

Opening times can vary slightly from year to year, so it’s worth checking the current timetable online before your visit.

Read more about the cable cars and summer opening times here.

Cable car prices

The views from Seceda are stunning, and getting up there by cable car is easy – but it doesn’t come cheap.

A return ticket for both cable cars costs 52 euros (~ 60.5 USD) for adults, while a single ticket (either up or down) is 39 euros (~ 45 USD)*.

Children aged 7 and under travel for free.

For juniors aged 8 to 15, a return ticket costs 26 euros (~ 30 USD), and a one-way ticket is 19 euros (~ 22 USD)*.

You can also choose to take just one of the two cable cars if you’d like to hike part of the way.

Dogs cost 7 euros (~ 8.2 USD), and bringing a bike costs 5 euros (~ 5.8 USD)*.

If you’re staying in the area for several days, the Gardena Card might be worth it. It gives unlimited access to all cable cars in Val Gardena and costs 118 euros for 3 days (~ 137 USD) and 152 euros for 6 days (~ 177 USD).

Tickets can be bought online or directly at the station in Ortisei.

During high season, queues can form at the ticket counter, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

Read more about cable car prices or the Gardena Card.

*The prices are from 2025.

Parking at Seceda

The cable car station in Ortisei is close to the centre and easy to reach on foot from many hotels in town.

If you’re arriving by car, there’s a two-level parking garage and a smaller outdoor car park directly at the station, with around 250 spaces in total.

It’s convenient – but not cheap. In 2025, parking costs 2.5 euros per hour (~ 2.9 USD).

The car park often fills up early in the morning during high season.

If there are no available spaces – or you’re looking for a cheaper option – you can park in one of the other car parks in Ortisei and walk to the cable car station from there.

Parkgarage Central is a large car park in the centre of Ortisei and is often mentioned as a good and more affordable alternative.

Hiking up to Seceda

If the cable cars sound a bit too easy (or expensive), or if you simply want to get up there before they start running, you can, of course, walk all the way to Seceda.

There are several possible routes, but be sure to check the weather conditions in advance and confirm that the trails are open.

One of the better hiking routes starts at the Praplan car park above Santa Cristina.

Alternative cable car

As an alternative to the popular (and often busy) cable cars from Ortisei, you could consider taking the Col Raiser lift.

It’s located in Santa Cristina in Val Gardena and gives access to the southern part of the Seceda massif.

From here, you can reach many of the same hiking trails as from the Seceda cable car – but if you want to get to the iconic ridge, you’ll need to hike around 2.5 to 3 hours return. The upside is that it’s a cheaper option.

The Col Raiser cable car runs at roughly the same times as the lifts to Seceda.

Check the official website for opening hours and prices.

Our experience at Seceda

Our trip to Seceda was something we’d really been looking forward to.

We visited in June, on our first trip to the Dolomites, and Seceda was one of the experiences we were most excited about.

Luckily, the weather was sunny and clear – absolutely perfect!

After parking in a garage in town, we took the cable cars up from Ortisei in the morning.

When we stepped out at the top, we were almost speechless.

The dramatic, jagged peaks and green ridge we’d only seen in photos were now right in front of us.

We walked along the edge to the iconic viewpoint, then continued on a short route along one of the nearby walking trails.

The views were amazing the whole way, so we took our time, snapped loads of photos, and just enjoyed the sunshine.

Hiking routes and viewpoints at Seceda

As soon as you step out of the top station of the cable car, the landscape opens up: mountains in every direction and rolling green meadows.

The view is nothing short of spectacular from the very start.

The most well-known viewpoint is only about a 10-minute walk from the top station.

From there, you get a fantastic view of the dramatic peaks of the Odle/Geisler group – one of the most recognisable sights in the Dolomites.

You can return the same way or take a short circular route, which offers a different angle of the landscape and passes through several lush meadows.

If you’re in the mood for a longer hike, there are plenty of routes to choose from, varying in length and difficulty. One of the more popular ones is the trail to Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hütte).

Feel free to ask at the information desk what’s recommended on the day of your visit – or check this map of the area (Seceda’s top station is marked as number 3).

Practical information about Seceda

Opening hours

If you don’t hike to the top, you’ll need to rely on the cable cars’ opening hours.

In the summer season (typically from late May to early November), they run from 8:30 to 17:30.

During the winter season (from early December to early April), the hours are usually 8:15 to 16:30.

Opening times can vary slightly from year to year, so it’s best to check the official Val Gardena website for the most up-to-date information on schedules and operational status.

Price

It’s free to visit Seceda if you hike all the way up.

The cable cars and parking, however, are not exactly cheap.

Most people opt for a return ticket for both cable cars, which costs 52 euros (~ 60.5 USD) for adults*.

You can find information about other ticket options and prices for children, dogs and bicycles in our section on “cable car prices” above. More details on cable car prices are also available here.

At the cable car station, there is a parking garage and some outdoor spaces, costing 2.5 euros per hour (~ 2.9 USD)*.

The car park fills up quickly during high season.

Alternatively, you can park in one of the other car parks in Ortisei and walk to the cable car station from there.

*The prices are from 2025.

Toilets

There are toilets at the cable car stations both in Ortisei and at the top of Seceda.

The mountain huts and restaurants usually have toilets as well, but be aware that there may be a small charge to use them.

Food and drink

There are several great places to eat and drink at the top of Seceda – all with fantastic views.

Right by the cable car’s top station is Restaurant Seceda, which serves South Tyrolean specialities, Italian dishes and pizza.

Nearby mountain huts like Baita Sofie, Baita Daniel and Fermeda Refuge also have restaurants where you can pause for a break during your hike.

​Camping at Seceda

Camping at Seceda is officially not permitted, as the area lies within a protected nature park in the Dolomites.

This means setting up a tent is illegal, and you risk a hefty fine if you do so.

If you want to stay overnight nearby, you’ll need to use one of the mountain huts, such as Rifugio Firenze (Regensburger Hütte). It’s advisable to book well in advance, as these huts fill up quickly.

How long to spend at Seceda

How long you spend at Seceda really depends on what you want to experience.

For those mainly interested in the view and a short walk to the iconic viewpoint, one to two hours is usually enough.

If you’re planning a longer hike or want to enjoy lunch up there, you can easily spend half a day or even a full day at the top.

From the top station, there are several beautiful hiking routes to explore the area further.

Travelling with small children? Around 2 to 3 hours is often just fine for a relaxed trip to the top and a short walk.

Just remember to check the cable car timetable so you don’t risk missing the last ride down.

When to visit Seceda

The best time to visit Seceda really depends on what you want to experience and how many other people you want to share it with. The view is impressive all year round.

Keep in mind that mountain weather can change quickly at any time of year, so it’s wise to dress in layers and check the forecast before you head out.

Because of the difference in altitude, the weather at the top of Seceda can vary from conditions down in Ortisei throughout the year.

Below, we take a look at the seasons and the different times of day.

Seasons

Summer (June to September)

Summer is the obvious time to visit Seceda, especially if you want to enjoy the views, take photographs, and go hiking or cycling.

The cable cars usually run from late May to early November, making access easy.

In June, the alpine meadows are in bloom, though the weather can still be changeable with rain or mist.

July and August are high season, with many visitors and generally warmer, more stable weather. September often brings less rain while remaining warm and sunny.

Autumn (October and November)

Autumn sees fewer visitors at Seceda, but the weather can be more unpredictable.

Some days may be chilly, so be sure to bring warm clothing.

If the snow hasn’t started to fall yet, you might be lucky enough to catch the stunning golden autumn colours.

The cable cars usually run through October but typically close at the start of November, so it’s worth checking the schedule if you’re visiting around then.

Winter (December to March)

In winter, Seceda forms part of the extensive Dolomiti Superski network in Val Gardena and on Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm.

The summit transforms into ski slopes, with good options for beginners and children.

Hiking up to Seceda is still possible in winter, but many trails are covered in snow, so it’s wise to bring appropriate winter gear and hiking poles.

The cable cars usually operate from early December to early April.

Spring (April and May)

Spring is a transitional period at Seceda, when the cable cars are typically closed until late May, marking a quiet gap between ski and hiking seasons.

There may still be snow on the summit in May, which can make hiking less than ideal.

While spring isn’t the most obvious time to visit Seceda, it can be rewarding if you keep a close eye on the weather and trail conditions.

Time of day

The best time of day to visit Seceda depends on what you want to experience.

Early morning is ideal if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere in the mountains.

That said, during high season, there can already be a fair number of visitors not long after the cable cars open.

The air is often clear in the morning, and the soft light makes for beautiful photos – especially if you’re among the first to arrive.

If you want to catch the sunrise from the top, you’ll need to hike up very early, as the cable cars don’t start running until later.

Midday is the most popular time to visit, with plenty of visitors – particularly in July and August.

On the upside, the weather tends to be more stable around this time.

The car park at the cable car station fills up fast, so you may need to park elsewhere in Ortisei and walk a short distance.

Late afternoon offers warmer light and fewer people. Just make sure to check the cable car’s closing times if you plan to head down that way.

If you’re staying for sunset, be prepared to hike down – and don’t forget a head torch or flashlight.

Where to stay near Seceda

The towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva lie in the beautiful valley of Val Gardena (Gröden) and all make great bases for visiting Seceda (and Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm) in both summer and winter.

Staying in any of these towns gives you easy access to the mountains, with fantastic skiing in winter and excellent hiking and cycling routes during the summer months.

Ortisei

Ortisei (St. Ulrich) (adlink) is the closest town and the most convenient option for visiting Seceda, as the cable car departs from here.

The charming town offers plenty of restaurants, shops and a wide range of hotels.

There’s also a direct cable car from Ortisei to Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm.

Santa Cristina

Santa Cristina (adlink) is the smallest of the three main towns in Val Gardena – but that’s exactly what makes it a quiet and cosy place to stay, with several hotels offering good value for money.

The town sits between Ortisei and Selva and is well located if you want to visit Seceda but don’t need to stay right by the cable car.

Buses run to Ortisei, and it’s only about an 8-minute drive to the cable car station.

From Santa Cristina, you also have access to various hiking routes and the Col Raiser lift, which takes you to the southern part of the Seceda massif – from there, it’s about a 1.5-hour hike each way to the famous viewpoint.

If you’d rather hike all the way to Seceda, a good route starts from the Praplan car park above Santa Cristina.

Selva di Val Gardena

Selva di Val Gardena (adlink) is the highest town in Val Gardena and a natural choice if you want to combine your visit to Seceda with plenty of other mountain experiences – especially in winter.

Selva offers direct access to the vast Dolomiti Superski area, along with excellent hiking trails nearby.

There’s a good selection of hotels and holiday apartments here, and it’s just a 15-minute drive from Selva to the cable car station in Ortisei.

Luxury

• Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa – 5-star hotel ideally located in Ortisei, just a short walk from the cable car.

Value for money

• Linder Cycling Hotel – Modern, stylish rooms, spa with pool and excellent reviews in Selva di Val Gardena. It’s perfect for everyone, but especially popular with those who come to ride racing or mountain bikes in the Dolomites.
• Residence Antares – Apartments in various sizes with an indoor pool and a children’s play area, just a 15-minute drive from the cable car. Ideally situated for both hiking and skiing in Selva di Val Gardena.
• Smart Hotel Saslong – Great value for money in Santa Cristina, just an 8-minute drive from the cable car in Ortisei.

Budget

• Garni Sunela B&B – On the pricier end of budget stays, but with top reviews and a fantastic location in Selva.

Other towns near Seceda

Adlinks
• Castelrotto (Kastelruth): About a 20-minute drive west of Ortisei, this cosy, historic town offers a classic South Tyrolean atmosphere. You’ll find both traditional and modern hotels here, and it’s also within easy reach of the Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm cable car.
• Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern): Located at the foot of Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm, this town has a selection of hotels, guesthouses and apartments. It’s around a 25-minute drive to Seceda and provides convenient access to the cable car leading up to the vast alpine plateau.
• Bolzano (Bozen): If you prefer a larger city with lively streets, shopping and culture, Bolzano is a great option. The South Tyrolean capital lies about a 50-minute drive from the Seceda cable car and offers a wide range of hotels to suit various budgets. In some cases, you can even fly directly to Bolzano Airport from selected European cities.

For more inspiration, you can read our comprehensive guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.

Our best tips for Seceda

• Think about the season. The cable cars close during the low season, and the weather varies greatly throughout the year.
• Take a look at Seceda’s live webcam before you set off, as mountain weather can change rapidly in the mountains. It would be a shame to reach the top only to find the view hidden by clouds.
• Check cable car times. The first and last trips vary by season, and you don’t want to be stuck at the top.
• Come early or late in the day if you’d like a quieter experience and softer light for photos.
• Follow the signs. Most trails are well marked with red and white flags (often with route numbers), though the time estimates can be a bit optimistic.
• Bring a good camera. Seceda is incredibly photogenic – here is a guide to the equipment we use.
• Be prepared for sudden weather changes. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and different from the valley below. Always be prepared.
• Dress in layers to adjust to the changing temperatures at altitude.
• Wear proper shoes. Sneakers, hiking shoes or anything you can walk comfortably in will do.
• Bring food, drinks and snacks to enjoy along the way, or visit the mountain huts and restaurants (during high season).
• Don’t forget sun protection. Sunscreen and a hat are useful, especially in summer. The sun can be intense at higher altitudes.

Sustainable travel tips

To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid disposable plastics.
• Dispose of waste properly and don’t leave anything behind on the trail.
• Take only photos and leave only footprints. Avoid picking flowers or taking anything from nature with you.
• Stick to the marked trails.
• Show consideration towards other visitors.
• Respect the local wildlife and avoid feeding grazing animals.
• Dogs must be on a lead.
• Camping is not allowed.

Thank you for reading along

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Seceda. We hope you found it helpful!

What do you think of Seceda’s iconic view in the Dolomites?

If you’ve already visited, we’d love to hear your best tips and experiences.

And if you haven’t been yet, feel free to ask us any questions in the comments. We are happy to help.