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!
We’ve now been up Seceda twice. The first time was in June, on our very first trip to the Dolomites and before we had kids. It was one of the first things we did, and maybe that’s why it has stuck so clearly in our memory.
In October 2026, we went back with our toddler Adrian, baby Zoe and two strollers.
The cable cars and the parking are the same as before. What has changed is the walking up top. Part of the ridge is now a private trail with a 5-euro fee, and rope lines run along the paths almost everywhere.
We still think everyone should see Seceda with their own eyes. Luckily, it’s also one of the more accessible places in the Dolomites, even with small kids.
In this guide to visiting Seceda by cable car, we’ll cover how to get there, parking, practical info about the lifts, the new paid viewpoint, visiting with kids, 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
- Luxury: Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa – A 5-star hotel perfectly located in Ortisei, just a short walk from the cable car.
- Value for money: Chalet Regina – This is where we stayed in October 2026. Roomy, modern apartments above Santa Cristina, a few minutes’ walk from the Col Raiser lift.
- 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 fantastic 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.
Table of contents
- What is Seceda?
- Why visit Seceda
- How to get to Seceda
- Our experience at Seceda
- Hiking routes and viewpoints at Seceda
- Visiting Seceda with kids
- Practical information about Seceda
- How long to spend at Seceda
- When to visit Seceda
- Where to stay near Seceda
- Our best tips for visiting Seceda by cable car
- Sustainable travel tips
What is Seceda?
Seceda is one of the most iconic peaks in the Dolomites (and with good reason!).
Its distinctive ridge tops out at 2,519 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.
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Read moreMap of Seceda
Seceda is located in the South Tyrolean part of the Dolomites in northern Italy.
The mountain is the western end of the Odle Group (Geislergruppe), with the Sassolungo Massif (Langkofel) across the valley to the southeast. It forms part of the Parco Naturale Puez-Odle/Naturpark Puez-Geisler.
The jagged peaks you see from Seceda are the Fermeda towers, with Gran Fermeda reaching 2,873 metres. The highest peaks in the group, Sass Rigais and Furchetta, both top out at 3,025 metres.
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 Val Gardena (Gröden), a 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 to walk uphill from the top station to the iconic Seceda viewpoint.
There are also several longer hiking trails, picnic spots, a playground 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.
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Read moreHow 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 (both times) – but we’ll also briefly cover the hiking routes and the cheaper Col Raiser lift further down.
By cable car
The easiest way to reach Seceda is by taking the cable cars from Ortisei in Val Gardena.
The journey has two stages:
- Ortisei-Furnes: First, you take the gondola (with space for 6-8 people) from Ortisei up to the intermediate station at Furnes (1,720 metres). 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 the top station on Seceda’s ridge at 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 valley station is a short walk from the centre of Ortisei. From Piazza S. Antonio in the middle of town, the covered La Curta escalators take you up to the station in about 5 minutes, which saves a fair bit of uphill walking.
At the station, there’s a lift up to the floor where you buy tickets and board the gondola, so you don’t have to carry a stroller up the stairs. There are also self-service ticket machines outside.
The cable cars typically run from late May to early November between 8:30 and 17:30.
Opening times vary through the season (in 2026, the lifts closed at 17:00 from mid-October), 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 74 euros (~ 86 USD) for adults, while a single ticket (either up or down) is 49 euros (~ 57 USD)*. That’s what we paid in October 2026.
Children aged 7 and under travel for free with a paying adult.
For juniors aged 8 to 15, a return ticket costs 37 euros (~ 43 USD), and a one-way ticket is 25 euros (~ 29 USD)*.
You can also choose to take just one of the two cable cars if you’d like to hike part of the way. Furnes-Seceda costs 29 euros (~ 34 USD) one way and 44 euros (~ 51 USD) return for adults*.
If you hike up, keep in mind that the ride down isn’t free either. From the top to Ortisei, it’s the same 49 euros as the ride up.
Bringing a dog or bike costs 7 euros (~ 8 USD)*. Signs at the station say dogs need a muzzle and a lead on the cable car.
If you’re staying in the area for several days, the Gardena Card might be worth it. It gives unlimited access to the participating cable cars and lifts in Val Gardena and costs 124 euros (~ 145 USD) for 3 days and 160 euros (~ 187 USD) for 6 days*.
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 2026.
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Read moreParking 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 car park and a smaller outdoor one right by the station, with over 250 spaces in total.
That’s where we parked in October 2026. The spaces are nice and wide, and it couldn’t be more convenient – but it’s not cheap.
Parking costs 2.50 euros per 30 minutes (~ 2.9 USD) between 5:00 and 19:00, up to a maximum of 30 euros (~ 35 USD) per day*.
The car park often fills up early in the morning during high season. In mid-October, there was plenty of space.
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. We used it on another day in town. It costs 2.50 euros per hour (~ 2.9 USD), up to 20 euros (~ 23 USD) per day*.
In both garages, remember to pay at one of the machines before you go back to your car.
There are also a few smaller car parks on the south side of town, on either side of the main road (SS242).
From there, it’s a short walk to Piazza S. Antonio and the La Curta escalators up to the cable car.
*The prices are from 2026.
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, hike 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 (Cristauta) 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, also in Val Gardena, and gives access to the southern part of the Seceda massif. We took it on the morning of our October visit, before heading to Ortisei for Seceda in the afternoon.
The big draw is the price. A return ticket was 34 euros (~ 40 USD) for adults in 2026, against 74 euros for Seceda, with kids under 6 riding for free.
It’s a single ride from the bottom to the top station, with lovely views towards the Odle peaks and Seceda when you get out.
The catch is that it doesn’t go nearly as high. To reach the iconic Seceda ridge from the Col Raiser top station, you need to hike for around 1.5 hours each way.
That’s about 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) and a bit over 400 metres of climbing. The signpost at the top station says 1 hour 20 minutes to Seceda.
With strollers, the first part is easy. The walk from the top station to Rifugio Fermeda is about 1.2 kilometres, or 20 minutes on Google Maps (we took longer, with stops and Adrian walking on his own).
After the hut, the trail gets too steep and too rough for our travel strollers. If you’re strong and the stroller has big wheels, then it can maybe work…
We had a lovely minestrone at Fermeda, a modern hut where the owner was happy to make dishes vegan.
On the way back, we stopped for drinks at Baita Odles, where the kids could play (there’s a trampoline, a slide, a swing and a play kitchen).
So if you have the time and the legs for it, Col Raiser is the cheaper way to Seceda. If you have small kids or limited time, the Ortisei cable cars take you right to the top with much less hassle.
Check the official website for opening hours and prices.
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Read moreOur experience at Seceda
We’ve been to Seceda twice, years apart and in two very different ways: first as a couple in June, then in October 2026 with two small kids and two strollers.
Our first visit in June
Our first trip to Seceda was something we’d really been looking forward to.
We visited in June, on our first stint in 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, 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 Seceda 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.
Returning with the kids in October
Our second visit was in October 2026 during the week we were in Val Gardena.
We spent the morning at Col Raiser, then drove to Ortisei and took the cable cars up at about 15:00. Adrian and Zoe stayed in their strollers for the second, bigger cable car, which has plenty of room for them.
Clouds were drifting in and out around the Odle peaks that afternoon, so the view kept changing.
From the top station, we walked straight ahead towards the paid viewpoint, stopping for photos on the way, and paid our 5 euros to walk the private trail to the end.
On the way back, we went up to the summit cross and the panorama ring, then down past the playground by the restaurant to the top station.
All in all, we spent about an hour and a half up top.
What had changed since our first visit was the new paid entrance and the paths, which now have rope lines on both sides almost everywhere, along with plenty of signs asking you to stay on the trail.
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Read moreHiking routes and viewpoints at Seceda
As soon as you step out of the top station of the cable car, the landscape opens up with mountains in every direction and rolling green meadows.
The view is nothing short of spectacular from the very start.
From the top station, you can go two ways.
Going left, you follow the free Seceda Ridge Trail (Raida dla Cresta) along the ridge up to the official high point with the summit cross.
Up there, there’s also a round metal panorama ring that points out cities around the world and how far away they are (Venice 215 kilometres, London 1,090 kilometres and Bangkok 9,270 kilometres, for example).
Staying by the ridge on this side gets you what is arguably the best view.
Going straight takes you towards the paid viewpoint (more on that below), with plenty of photo opportunities on the way.
The most well-known Seceda 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 on 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).
The paid viewpoint (Seceda Pana)
The biggest change since our first visit is a paid section of the ridge trail, called Seceda Pana.
It costs 5 euros (~ 6 USD) per adult, and you can pay in cash or by card at a small booth with a turnstile.
Children are free. The sign doesn’t say whether there’s an age limit, but the attendant said it applies to everyone under 18.
A notice at the gate explains why the trail is now paid. The trail is on private land, and the farmers who own it mow the meadows and maintain the path every year.
According to the sign, no public body contributes to the costs, so the fee goes towards looking after the trail and the meadows…
We’re a bit sceptical that there’s zero amount of basic human greed involved here, but even if that’s the case, who can blame them when Seceda is one of the top sights in the entire Dolomites?
What you get is a path that continues straight towards the Odle peaks. At the end, there’s a small viewing platform, and you can also walk up to the left for a high view.
Is it worth paying for the private trail? It’s not necessarily the most aesthetic photo from up there, as you don’t get the nice sloping grass in front of the Odle group. But it’s a different view, and a pretty nice one at that.
If you’ve already spent 74 euros getting up to Seceda by cable car from Ortisei, we’d say it’s worth spending 5 more.
If it already feels like a very expensive day (parking included), you can skip it and still see the famous view without paying extra.
Stay on the trail
The other big change is on the paths themselves.
They’re not fenced in, but there’s now a rope line on each side almost everywhere, which makes it very clear that you shouldn’t wander off.
All of the greener photos in this guide are from our first visit in June, before the rope lines went up.
Some of the spots we stood on back then are closed off today, as far as we could tell.
There are also lots of signs. Some say “Do not leave the trail” in five languages, while others mark a no-drone zone, ask you to keep bikes off the path or warn of a snake breeding area (yikes).
The welcome board at the top reminds you that Seceda is a protected area in the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, that the huts are private property and that there’s a risk of falling near the edge. Fair enough!
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Read moreVisiting Seceda with kids
Seceda is very doable with small kids, strollers included. We went up with a toddler and a baby, and the cable cars and the main paths worked well.
The cable cars with kids and strollers
At the valley station, you can take the lift up to the ticket floor and the gondolas.
The gondolas are quite big. We folded our strollers, but they could likely have fitted unfolded.
At Furnes, you change to the big cable car, where the kids can stay in their strollers. It can get crowded, though.
Children aged 7 and under ride the Seceda cable cars for free, and kids get into the paid viewpoint free too.
Which way to walk?
Going left from the top station and up along the ridge to the summit cross is stroller-friendly, albeit not exactly flat.
Coming down the other, eastern side of the high point (with the cross) is harder going, with uneven paving stones on the way down. So with a stroller, we’d go up and come back the same way.
You can easily continue towards the paid section with strollers, and you can even go all the way to the viewing platform.
Getting a stroller up to the higher viewpoint in the paid section is impossible, though, as the path is very steep and uneven.
The playground
Right next to the restaurant at the top station, there’s a playground with a very long tube slide, two swings, two springy rides and a rope climbing frame.
Both Adrian and Zoe loved it, and parents even get the bonus of some pretty amazing views in all directions at the same time.
For more ideas, see our guide to the Dolomites with children.
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Read morePractical information about Seceda
Opening hours
If you don’t hike to the top of Seceda, 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.
In 2026, the closing time stretched to 18:00 in the middle of summer and shortened to 17:00 from mid-October.
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 whether the lifts are running.
Price
It’s free to visit Seceda if you hike all the way up, apart from the optional paid viewpoint.
The cable cars and parking, however, are not exactly cheap.
Most people opt for a return ticket for both cable cars, which costs 74 euros (~ 86 USD) for adults*.
See our section on cable car prices above for other ticket types and prices for children, dogs and bicycles. More details on cable car prices are also available here.
At the cable car station, parking in the garage or the outdoor spaces costs 2.50 euros per 30 minutes (~ 2.9 USD) during the day*.
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 paid viewpoint on the Seceda ridge costs 5 euros (~ 6 USD) per adult*.
*The prices are from 2026.
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Read moreToilets
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 if you’re not a customer.
Food and drink
There are several 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.
It’s pretty expensive, though. In October 2026, a margherita pizza was 14.80 euros (~ 17 USD) and a plate of spaghetti al pomodoro 17 euros (~ 20 USD).
Nearby mountain huts like Baita Sofie, Baita Daniel and Rifugio Fermeda also have restaurants where you can stop for a break during your time at Seceda.
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 up in the mountains, you’ll need to use one of the mountain huts, such as Rifugio Firenze.
It’s a good idea to book well in advance, as these huts fill up quickly.
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Read moreHow 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 Seceda 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 hours is often just fine for a relaxed trip to the top and a short walk.
With our toddler and baby, we spent about an hour and a half up top, and that covered the paid viewpoint, the summit cross and the playground.
Just remember to check the cable car timetable so you don’t risk missing the last ride down.
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Read moreWhen 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 big difference in altitude (more than 1,200 metres), the weather at the top of Seceda can differ from conditions down in Ortisei throughout the year.
Below, we take a look at the seasons and the different times of day.
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Read moreSeasons
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, so access is 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.
We spent a week in Val Gardena in early to mid-October 2026. Apart from the very first day, we had lots of sunshine and not much wind.
It was cold in the shade and at night but lovely in the sun, and after a few days there was a dusting of snow above 2,000 metres.
Bring layers and sun protection, even in October.
The car parks in Ortisei had plenty of space, though they were far from empty.
The cable cars usually run through October but typically close at the start of November (2 November in 2026), 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 area turns into ski runs, with easier slopes further down 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.
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Read moreSpring (April and May)
Spring is a quiet transitional period at Seceda, between the ski and hiking seasons, and the cable cars are typically closed until late May.
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 matters most to you.
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.
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 cars’ closing times if you plan to head down that way.
We went up at about 15:00 in October, which left us plenty of time before the last ride down.
If you’re staying for sunset, be prepared to hike down. And don’t forget a head torch or flashlight.
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Read moreWhere to stay near Seceda
The towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva lie in the beautiful valley of Val Gardena and all make great bases for visiting Seceda (and Alpe di Siusi) 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 warmer months.
Ortisei
Ortisei (adlink) is the closest town and the most convenient option for visiting Seceda, as the direct 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.
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 is 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 go 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 (Cristauta) above Santa Cristina.
On our October 2026 trip, we stayed for a week at Chalet Regina (adlink), above Santa Cristina and a few minutes’ walk from the Col Raiser lift.
Our apartment had two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sauna and a big living room with a kitchen.
It was roomy, modern and well stocked, and great value at roughly two-thirds the price of comparable two-bedroom places in Val Gardena.
It’s a steep walk up from the centre of town, but easy by car, with parking both on the street and in the basement. There’s also a bus stop nearby.
We’d happily recommend it to families and everyone else.
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
- Chalet Regina – Where we stayed as a family in a spacious, modern apartment with a sauna, above Santa Cristina and close to the Col Raiser lift.
- Linder Cycling Hotel – Modern, stylish rooms and a spa with pool in Selva di Val Gardena, with excellent reviews. It’s perfect for everyone, but especially popular with those who come to ride road 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
- 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 cable car.
- Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern): Located at the foot of Alpe di Siusi, this town has a good selection of hotels, guesthouses and apartments. It’s around a 25-minute drive to the Seceda cable car, and the gondola up to the vast alpine plateau starts right here.
- 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 recommendations for the best places to stay in the Dolomites, Italy
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Our best tips for visiting Seceda by cable car
- 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. It would be a shame to reach the top only to find the view hidden by clouds. Conditions can change by the time you get up there, though.
- 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.
- Use the La Curta escalators from Piazza S. Antonio if you’re walking from the centre of Ortisei to the cable car.
- Pay for parking before you go back to the car. Both main garages in Ortisei have payment machines.
- Budget 5 euros per adult for the paid viewpoint if you want to see it. You can pay in cash or by card. The famous view from the ridge is free.
- Follow the signs. Most trails are well marked with red and white paint marks (often with route numbers).
- Bring a good camera. Seceda is incredibly photogenic – here is a guide to the equipment we use. Leave the drone at home, though, as Seceda is a no-drone zone.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and different from the valley below.
- 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 (when they’re open).
- 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. At Seceda, the rope lines show you exactly where they are, and the meadows are private farmland.
- Show consideration towards other visitors.
- Respect the local wildlife and avoid feeding grazing animals.
- Dogs must be on a lead.
- Camping is not allowed.
Practical tips + helpful advice to plan your Dolomites trip and enjoy every moment
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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.
More from the Dolomites
We absolutely love the Dolomites. Here are all our guides to the stunning mountains in northeastern Italy, with our best tips for hiking, viewpoints, where to stay, transportation and more.
Overview:
Hiking guides:
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for hotels and apartments.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- AirHelp for flight delay compensation.
- GetYourGuide for great tours everywhere.
- Airalo for reliable eSIM.
- Discover Cars for transparent car hire.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like True Traveller. Compared here.
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