The Magic of Seiser Alm
Seiser Alm – or Alpe di Siusi – is one of those places you never forget. A vast plateau filled with rolling meadows, wooden huts and the impressive backdrop of the Sassolungo and Schlern mountains. In the early morning, a thin mist often hangs over the grass, while the first sunlight gently colours the mountain peaks orange. It’s a paradise for hikers, those seeking tranquility and photographers who love space and silence. Those who truly want to experience the Dolomites will find a place here where time seems to slow down.
About Seiser Alm
Seiser Alm (Italian: Alpe di Siusi, Ladin: Mont Sëuc) is the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe. With an area of 56 km², this unique plateau extends at an elevation between 1,680 and 2,350 metres. It’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites and lies within the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park.
The meadows are surrounded by some of the most iconic peaks of the Dolomites: the Sassolungo (3,181 m), Sasso Piatto (2,958 m) and the distinctive silhouette of the Schlern (Sciliar, 2,563 m) – the symbol of South Tyrol. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year and approximately 790 different plant species, this is a remarkable destination for nature lovers.
| Location | South Tyrol, Italy (above Siusi and Val Gardena) |
| Area | 56 km² (largest alpine meadow in Europe) |
| Elevation | 1,680 – 2,350 m |
| Surrounding peaks | Sassolungo (3,181 m), Schlern (2,563 m) |
| UNESCO status | Part of Dolomites World Heritage |
| Sunny days | 300+ per year |
| GPS Compatsch | 46.5419° N, 11.6289° E |
How to Get to Seiser Alm
Seiser Alm is located in South Tyrol, above the villages of Siusi allo Sciliar (Seis am Schlern) and Ortisei (St. Ulrich) in Val Gardena. There are several ways to reach the plateau — each with its own charm. It also depends on your goal: do you want to take beautiful photos at sunrise or sunset? Or simply enjoy a nice day hiking in the beautiful area? Or perhaps just a relaxed day with your family?
By Cable Car
The easiest way is by cable car from Siusi allo Sciliar or Ortisei. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes and covers about 800 metres of elevation gain. It’s a relaxed journey up, with beautiful views over the valley. Ideal for a day hike or afternoon photography.
| Siusi cable car | Siusi → Compatsch (1,015 m → 1,857 m) |
| Ortisei cable car | Ortisei → Mont Sëuc |
| Summer season 2025 | 23 May – 2 November |
| Operating hours | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (peak season until 7:00 PM) |
| Journey time | ~15 minutes |
More info about the cable cars
By Car
Those who rise early have an advantage. The road to Seiser Alm is closed to private traffic between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Outside these hours, you can drive up, for example for sunrise or sunset – perfect for photographers.
Parking is available at Compatsch, where many hiking trails also begin. Keep in mind that only hotel guests are allowed to drive during the day! Park at the designated car park. I’ve seen many people simply drive on to get to their photo spot as quickly as possible. Personally, I don’t like that approach – I try to respect local rules as much as possible, as tourism at these places already puts enough pressure on the environment.
From the car park, it’s still quite a walk depending on where you want to go. But it can be the start of a wonderful day where you see both sunrise and sunset.
On Foot or by Bike
For those who love adventure, the hike to the alm is an experience in itself. From Siusi or Campitello di Fassa, you can walk up via well-marked trails. The journey is challenging, but the reward is great: silence, views and the feeling that you’ve truly earned the mountains. If you want to see the sunrise, you’ll need to get up very early; if you want to see the sunset, you’ll have to descend in the dark. Either way, a good headlamp is essential.
Tip: If you want to photograph the sunrise, it’s best to stay overnight in or near Compatsch, so you’re already in the field early when the first wisps of mist appear.
Photography Highlights
Seiser Alm is a dream for photographers. The openness of the landscape makes it possible to play endlessly with light and composition.
The classic view of the Sassolungo from the meadows near Compatsch is among the iconic images of the Dolomites. In the early morning, light glides over the hills while the wooden huts cast long shadows.
Preferably use a telephoto lens to emphasise the depth and layering of the landscape — the lines of the hills naturally lead to the peaks on the horizon.
In autumn, the golden meadows and misty mornings create an almost painterly atmosphere. And those who are lucky may see a thin layer of frost glistening over the grass after a night of cold. Recommended spots include the area around Hotel Icaro, Malga Sanon and the Panoramaweg – all easily accessible and exceptionally photogenic.
Photo Locations on Seiser Alm
Personally, I’m not a fan of sharing or using exact photo locations. This is for several reasons:
- It’s better to search yourself – this strengthens your ability to discover compositions
- If you find the spots yourself, the chance of creating unique photos is much greater
- A large part of the “fun” of photography is searching for the right spot and composition
That said, for those who still want to find a quick location, here are some tips. But I’ll add immediately: definitely explore on your own, this location offers so much more!
Look beyond the popular locations where everyone stands! That yields different images.
Walking Routes on Seiser Alm
Whether you want a short walk or a full day hike, Seiser Alm offers routes for every level. With more than 450 km of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.
Panorama Loop around Puflatsch
A popular route runs from Compatsch towards Rifugio Molignon, with views over the entire plateau along the way. The Panoramaweg also lives up to its name: a gently undulating path that constantly offers views of the Dolomites.
| Distance | ~9 km |
| Duration | 3,5 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation gain | ~320 m |
| Highlights | Puflatsch, Witches’ Benches, panoramas |
The experience along the way is just as valuable as the destination: the sound of cowbells, the scent of fresh hay and the soft rustling of wind over the grass complete the experience. Just take your time – you can easily spend an entire day in this beautiful area.
Extended Loop via Schafstall
For those who enjoy more of a challenge and have good fitness:
| Distance | ~14 km |
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate to difficult |
| Elevation gain | ~900 m |
Other Popular Walks
- Hans und Paula Steger Path – scenic trail with views of Sassolungo
- Friedrich August Path – panorama trail along the Sassolungo
- Sassolungo Circuit – 17.7 km, ~6 hours, spectacular but long
- To Rifugio Bolzano – via the Schlern, tough climb but amazing views
Accommodation and Dining
Those who want to stay longer will find various atmospheric accommodations on Seiser Alm. From simple mountain huts to charming lodges with views of the Sassolungo. In the evening, you can enjoy typical South Tyrolean dishes such as Spätzle, Kaiserschmarrn or a warm Apfelstrudel on the terrace, while the sun slowly disappears behind the mountains.
Here are some dining options in and around Seiser Alm:
- Restaurant “Zur Quelle” – evening restaurant with Alpine-Mediterranean dishes (website)
- Sanonhütte – cosy alpine hut with homemade dishes (website)
- Floralpina’s Café & Restaurant – traditional and Mediterranean dishes (website)
- Restaurant Alpina Chalet – in Compatsch, ideal for lunch (website)
- Restaurant Goldknopf – South Tyrolean specialities (website)
- Restaurant Saltria – traditional and international dishes (website)
Tip: More than 50 cosy mountain huts treat their guests to South Tyrolean specialities. Plan your hike past a few huts for the ultimate Dolomites experience.
Best Time to Visit and Seasons
Each season has its own charm:
| Spring (May-June) | Blooming alpine meadows full of colour, fresh light, wildflowers |
| Summer (July-Aug) | Long days, high-contrast light, plenty of hiking options |
| Autumn (Sept-Oct) | Golden tones, quieter pace, photogenic mist |
| Winter (Dec-Mar) | Tranquil white world, 63 km ski slopes, cross-country skiing |
For photographers, the early morning hours in autumn are often the most beautiful: low sun, mist banks and warm colours. Personally, I find autumn the most beautiful time. The weather is still good and perfectly suited for a proper hike. Do keep in mind the crowds. Even in October, there are still many tourists in the Dolomites. Choose mid to late October if you want to avoid the crowds somewhat. There’s a good chance the mountain peaks will be covered with a nice layer of snow – which adds an extra effect to your photos.
A Personal Moment
During my first morning on Seiser Alm, it was still dark when I parked my car at Compatsch. In the distance, I could hear the soft sound of cowbells. A little later, a band of light appeared behind the mountains, and the mist over the meadows began to dance. It was one of those moments when the silence is almost audible – and the Dolomites show their most magical face.
Final Thoughts
Seiser Alm is more than a destination – it’s a feeling of freedom, space and simplicity. A place where the rhythm of the mountains brings you peace.
Want to see more images from this region or get inspiration for your next trip? Or have you already been and are looking for a lasting memory? Then check out my Dolomites book or my premium Dolomites calendar. Both also include QR codes that give you access to the locations and relevant info.
Practical Information
Getting There
| From Bolzano | ~35 km (~45 min) |
| From Innsbruck | ~130 km (~1.5 hours) |
| From Munich | ~280 km (~3 hours) |
| Nearest airports | Bolzano, Innsbruck or Verona |
| Car access | Before 9:00 AM or after 5:00 PM (hotel guests anytime) |
Facilities
- Parking: Large car park at Compatsch (paid)
- Cable car: From Siusi and Ortisei
- Mountain huts: 50+ huts with food and drinks
- Hiking trails: 450+ km of marked routes
- Cycling paths: 1,000+ km of signposted routes
- Wheelchair accessible: Many paths suitable for pushchairs
- Dogs: Welcome (muzzle required on cable car)
Regulations
Seiser Alm is a protected nature area. Please respect the rules:
- Stay on marked trails
- Keep your distance from grazing livestock
- Do not pick flowers
- Take your rubbish with you
- Wild camping is prohibited
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Seiser Alm?
Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi) is the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe with an area of 56 km². The plateau lies at an elevation between 1,680 and 2,350 metres in the Dolomites of South Tyrol, Italy. It’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
How do you get to Seiser Alm?
You can reach Seiser Alm by cable car from Siusi allo Sciliar or Ortisei (daily from ~8:00 AM – 6:00 PM). By car, you can only drive up before 9:00 AM or after 5:00 PM. Hotel guests are allowed to drive all day. Parking is available at Compatsch.
What is the best time to visit Seiser Alm?
For photographers, autumn (September-October) is ideal: golden colours, morning mist and sometimes fresh snow on the peaks. Flower lovers should visit in June-July. Summer offers the longest days and most hiking options. In winter, the area transforms into a ski paradise.
Is Seiser Alm suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! The flat, rolling meadows are ideal for families. Many paths are suitable for pushchairs. There are playgrounds at various mountain huts and the cable car makes the area easily accessible. Children often love the cowbells and huts.
Which mountains can you see from Seiser Alm?
From Seiser Alm, you have views of some of the most famous peaks of the Dolomites: the Sassolungo (3,181 m), Sasso Piatto (2,958 m), the Schlern (2,563 m), and in the distance the Sella Group, Rosengarten and even Marmolada (the highest mountain in the Dolomites).
What is the best time for photography on Seiser Alm?
The most beautiful photos are taken around sunrise when morning mist floats over the meadows and the first light touches the mountain peaks. Sunset is also spectacular with the “alpenglow” effect on the Sassolungo. In autumn, conditions are often ideal with mist, soft colours and sometimes fresh snow.
Gallery
Pictures speak louder than words:
Useful Links
- Seiser Alm Official – tourism information: seiseralm.it
- Seiser Alm Tourism Portal – accommodation and maps: seiser-alm.it
- Cable Cars & Lifts – opening hours and prices: seiseralm.it
- Südtirol Info – hiking routes and activities: suedtirol.info
- Wikipedia – general information: wikipedia.org
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