October Snow Fun at Seceda
The Dolomites is a favourite destination of ours. You need to avoid the crowds, but it’s always worth it. In October, when we were there, most of the crowds have passed. It’s a period when the mountains show their most beautiful side. The air is clear, the light soft and at higher altitudes there’s often already a first layer of snow.
One of the highlights of this trip was our visit to Seceda, accessible via the Col Raiser cable car. A place where nature, tranquility and impressive views come together.
About Seceda and the Odle Group
Seceda (2,519 m) is one of the most famous mountain peaks in the Dolomites and belongs to the Odle (Geisler) group in the Puez-Odle Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The characteristic jagged ridge with the Fermeda Towers is one of the most iconic and photographed mountain landscapes in the world.
From the summit, you have a spectacular 360-degree panorama over almost all of South Tyrol: from the Sella group and Sassolungo to the Marmolada (“the queen of the Dolomites”), and on clear days even to the Austrian Alps and the Großglockner.
Interesting: Seceda is located in Val Gardena, a valley where three languages come together: Italian, German and Ladin. The original population still speaks Ladin, an ancient Romance language. Drones are prohibited throughout the Puez-Odle Nature Park.
Location and Getting There
We stayed at Vista Dolomites in Santa Cristina Val Gardena, a peacefully located accommodation with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. From here, it’s just a few minutes’ drive to the valley station of the Col Raiser cable car. The enjoyment of the beautiful nature and views begins as soon as you arrive at the mountain station.
| From Bolzano/Bozen | 40 km (45 min) |
| From Bressanone/Brixen | 30 km (35 min) |
| From Cortina d’Ampezzo | 65 km (1 hour 15 min) |
| From Innsbruck | 120 km (1 hour 30 min) |
Val Gardena is accessible via the A22 motorway (Brennero), exit Chiusa/Klausen or Bolzano Nord. Follow the signs towards Val Gardena/Grödnertal. The villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva are all located along the same valley road.
Two Routes to Seceda
There are two main routes to reach Seceda:
| Route | Col Raiser (our choice) | Seceda direct |
| Departure | Santa Cristina | Ortisei |
| Cable cars | 1 (Col Raiser gondola) | 2 (Ortisei-Furnes + Furnes-Seceda) |
| Mountain station elevation | 2,100 m | 2,500 m (near the top) |
| Return price adult | €28 | €39 + €21 = €60 |
| Hike to summit | 1.5-2.5 hours | 10 minutes |
| Experience | Beautiful hike through alpine meadows | Quick to the viewpoint |
My tip: Choose the Col Raiser cable car! It’s significantly cheaper AND you get a beautiful hike through alpine meadows and past mountain huts to the summit. The experience is many times richer than when you take the cable car directly to the top.
Public transport: From Bolzano, take bus 350 to Ortisei or Santa Cristina (approximately 1 hour). Bus 358 runs every 20 minutes to the Col Raiser valley station. With a Mobilcard or Val Gardena Card you travel free on the buses.
Nature and Atmosphere
Once at the top, a panorama unfolds that you won’t soon forget: rolling alpine meadows, rugged rock peaks and the impressive silhouette of the Fermeda Towers. In autumn it’s quiet here; most summer tourists have left and the ski slopes are still waiting in silence. The combination of the golden grass, the first snow and the blue light of the mountains creates an almost surreal contrast. Ideal for hiking and photography without rushing.
Hiking Route Col Raiser to Seceda
Various hiking routes start from the Col Raiser mountain station. We chose the panoramic hike towards Seceda and the Fermeda Towers. The route passes mountain huts, alpine meadows and viewpoints that constantly invite you to stop. The path is well-maintained and suitable for anyone with normal fitness. Those who leave early also have a chance of beautiful morning mist in the valleys.
Route Details Col Raiser – Seceda
| Distance | 9-10 km (loop trail) |
| Duration | 4-5 hours (including breaks) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation gain | 400-550 metres |
| Start/Finish | Col Raiser mountain station (2,100 m) |
| Highest point | Seceda summit (2,519 m) |
| Trail numbers | 4, 1, 2B |
Along the route, you’ll encounter several mountain huts, such as the Fermeda Hütte and Daniel Hütte, where you can take a break with views of the impressive peaks of the Dolomites. For those who want to stay overnight, the Almhotel Col Raiser is a beautiful option: on top of the mountain, right next to the cable car station – ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Hiking tip: Walk the route clockwise (first to Seceda, then back via Rifugio Firenze). This way you have the best views in front of you and the steep section downhill instead of uphill.
But there are countless routes that are all beautiful. Do take the difficulty into account and make a choice that suits your fitness level as well as the conditions. If you want to cover a longer distance, you’ll need to bring sufficient clothing and provisions for the journey.
Equipment: Good hiking or mountain boots are essential. Along the way, you always see people passing by in white trainers – I can always smile at that. Wear clothing in layers so you can adjust according to conditions. You don’t want to get too warm (sweat) but you also don’t want to cool down.
Mountain Huts Along the Route
One of the highlights of hiking on Seceda are the authentic mountain huts where you can enjoy local dishes and spectacular views:
- Rifugio delle Odle / Geisler Alm (2,000 m) – At the Col Raiser mountain station, panoramic terrace
- Rifugio Firenze / Regensburger Hütte (2,040 m) – Starting point for via ferrata Sass Rigais
- Rifugio Fermeda (2,100 m) – Overnight stays possible, ideal for sunrise
- Baita Daniel / Daniel Hütte – Cosy hut with traditional dishes
- Baita Sofie – Close to the Seceda summit
Culinary tip: Order the Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancake) or a steaming Gerstensuppe (barley soup). Most huts are open from early June to mid-October.
Staying in Val Gardena
Our stay at Vista Dolomites (formerly Residence Ciamp) proved an excellent choice. It’s peacefully located in Santa Cristina, with a fantastic view over Val Gardena and the surrounding peaks. The hostess is incredibly friendly and helpful, and is happy to give tips about hiking routes and restaurants in the area. The apartments are wonderful and meet all requirements, offering plenty of space. Highly recommended.
For those staying several days in the region, there are plenty of opportunities to visit other highlights, such as Seiser Alm or the valley of Val di Funes – both a short drive away and definitely worth a visit.
Best Time to Visit Seceda
The best period to visit Seceda is between late May and early November. Each season has its charm:
| Spring (May-June) | Wildflowers, snow-capped peaks, quiet. Some huts still closed. |
| Summer (July-Aug) | Best hiking weather, all huts open. Busier, especially at Seceda cable car. |
| Autumn (Sept-Oct) | Golden colours, first snow, soft light. Our favourite period! |
| Winter (Dec-Apr) | Ski area, 25 km of pistes. Hiking limited. |
In October it’s often quieter and there’s a special light over the mountains. The Col Raiser cable car usually closes in early November. Keep in mind that it can be much colder at the top of the mountain than in the valley – in our case there was already a thin layer of snow while it was still autumn below.
Photography tip: For the best photos of the Fermeda Towers, come early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The golden hour gives a warm glow to the limestone walls. Want to photograph sunrise? Then stay overnight at Rifugio Fermeda or Almhotel Col Raiser.
In Conclusion
A day at Col Raiser and Seceda is an experience you won’t soon forget. The views, the light and the silence make this one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites. Whether you come to hike, photograph or simply enjoy nature – this is a destination that has it all.
More inspiration? Also read my article about Seiser Alm and Val di Funes, or check out the book Dolomites – A Journey Through Breathtaking Heights. Or take a look at my Fine Art Prints.
Practical Information
Location and Getting There
| Region | South Tyrol (Alto Adige), Italy |
| Nature Park | Puez-Odle (UNESCO World Heritage) |
| Valley | Val Gardena / Grödnertal |
| Seceda elevation | 2,519 metres |
| Col Raiser elevation | 2,100 metres |
| GPS Col Raiser valley station | 46.5598° N, 11.7247° E |
Cable Cars and Costs
| Col Raiser return adult | €28 (2025) |
| Col Raiser return child (6-13 yrs) | €17 |
| Col Raiser one way up | €19 |
| Seceda (Ortisei) return | €39 + €21 = €60 |
| Children 0-6 years | Free |
| Dogs | €7 |
Opening Hours (Summer 2025)
- Col Raiser season: 23 May – 2 November 2025
- Weekdays (May/June/Oct): 8:30 am – 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm
- Weekends/holidays: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm (continuous)
- Seceda lift: Similar times, check seceda.it
Tip: The Gardena Card (available at the cable car) offers unlimited use of all lifts in Val Gardena. Valid from 7 June – 12 October 2025. Ideal if you’re staying for several days!
Parking
- Col Raiser valley station: Large car park, €5-7/day
- Ortisei cable car: €2.50/hour (often full in high season)
- Parkgarage Central Ortisei: Alternative, cheaper
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Clothing in layers
- Wind and rain jacket
- Water and snacks
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera and tripod
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Col Raiser and Seceda cable car?
The Col Raiser cable car departs from Santa Cristina and takes you to 2,100 m. From there, you hike 1.5-2.5 hours to the Seceda summit. The Seceda cable car (from Ortisei) takes you directly to 2,500 m, close to the top. Col Raiser is cheaper (€28 vs €60 return) and offers a more beautiful hiking experience.
How long is the hike from Col Raiser to Seceda?
The loop hike from Col Raiser to Seceda and back is 9-10 km and takes 4-5 hours including breaks. The elevation gain is 400-550 metres. The hike is moderate in difficulty and suitable for anyone with reasonable fitness. You can shorten the route by taking the Fermeda chairlift.
How much does the Col Raiser cable car cost?
A return ticket for the Col Raiser cable car costs €28 for adults and €17 for children (6-13 years). Children under 6 travel free. A single journey up costs €19. Parking at the valley station costs €5-7 per day (2025 prices).
When is the Col Raiser cable car open?
The summer season 2025 runs from 23 May to 2 November. On weekdays in May, June and October there is a lunch break (12:30-1:30 pm). At weekends and during holidays, the cable car runs continuously from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. In winter, the cable car is open for skiers.
Can I stay overnight near Seceda for sunrise?
Yes! There are several mountain huts where you can stay overnight: Rifugio Fermeda (close to the summit), Almhotel Col Raiser (at the mountain station), and Rifugio Firenze (20-30 min walk from Col Raiser). Camping is not allowed in the Puez-Odle Nature Park.
What is the best time to visit Seceda?
The best period is June to October. October is our favourite: fewer crowds, beautiful autumn colours and often already a first layer of snow. Summer (July-August) is ideal for hiking but busier. For photography: come early in the morning or around sunset for the most beautiful light.
Location on the Map
Gallery
Pictures speak louder than words:
Useful Links
- Col Raiser Cable Car – colraiser.it
- Seceda Cable Car (Ortisei) – seceda.it
- Almhotel Col Raiser – colraiser.com/hotel
- Vista Dolomites (Santa Cristina) – vistadolomites.com
- Val Gardena Tourism – valgardena.it
- South Tyrol Tourism – suedtirol.info