The Dolomites region is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in the world, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With jagged peaks, green valleys, and picturesque villages that look like movie scenes, it is a destination that fascinates every traveler. One of the must-see highlights and most breathtaking spots in the Dolomites is Mount Seceda, located in the Val Gardena area. From the top, you can admire a striking ridge of mountains, with views that change dramatically with the light throughout the day. Therefore, it is the kind of place that stays forever in your memory.
History about Mount Seceda
The name Seceda comes from a word meaning “dry,” since the mountain’s upper section has little vegetation. It lies within the Puez-Odle Nature Park and, during winter, is famous for hosting one of the longest ski runs in Italy, known as La Longia.
Mount Seceda is also among the most photographed places on Instagram, largely because of the sharp peaks of the Odle mountains seen from above.
Where is Mount Seceda
Mount Seceda is located in Ortisei (in German, St. Ulrich), one of the three main villages in the Val Gardena valley. It belongs to the province of Bolzano in the autonomous region of South Tyrol (Alto Adige), in northern Italy, close to the Austrian border.
How to Get to Mount Seceda
The way to reach Mount Seceda is by cable car departing from the town of Ortisei.
How to Get to the Cable Car Station
To reach the cable car departure point, you can travel by train, bus, or car.
If you choose the train, the best option is to go to Bolzano or Bressanone and then take a bus directly to Ortisei, which takes less than an hour.
For those traveling by bus, there are regular lines connecting nearby cities such as Bolzano, Bressanone, Chiusa, and Castelrotto. These buses stop at Ortisei’s main square or near the cable car station.
From the town center, a tunnel with escalators, called “La Curta,” conveniently takes visitors directly to the cable car base station.
If you prefer traveling by car, take the A22 motorway, exit at Chiusa/Val Gardena, and continue on the SS242 road to Ortisei. Parking is available next to the station at a cost of about €2.5 per hour. However, spaces fill up quickly, so it is advisable to arrive early. For those seeking greater freedom to explore multiple places in the same day, driving is undoubtedly the most practical option, as it allows faster access to more remote areas.
If you plan to rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars, where you can find the best options. Moreover, you can compare prices and check company reviews before booking.
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
Main Cable Car
This cable car takes you from Ortisei all the way to the top of Mount Seceda. The journey is done in two stages: Ortisei–Furnes and Furnes–Seceda, reaching an altitude of 2,500 meters and offering one of the most impressive panoramic views in the Dolomites.
First section: you take a closed cable car (a large cabin that holds several people) from Ortisei to an intermediate station called Furnes.
Second section: from Furnes, you take another cable car that goes directly to the summit of Mount Seceda.
Walking time to the viewpoint: After getting off the main cable car at the summit, it takes about 10 minutes to reach the most famous photo spot. The walk is short and very easy.
Do not throw away your tickets once you arrive at the top, since you will need them again for the return trip.
Main Cable Car Price (Ortisei → Furnes → Seceda): approximately €52 round trip, €44 uphill only, and €39 downhill only per person. Children and seniors benefit from discounted rates.
Tickets can be purchased either online or directly at the ticket office in Ortisei, located at the base station. The price is the same in both cases.
If you plan on taking several rides in the Dolomites, it is worth considering the Dolomiti Supersummer Pass.
Chairlift Fermeda
At the top of Mount Seceda, there is also an open-air chairlift called the Fermeda Chairlift. Unlike the enclosed cabins, here you sit on an open chair and glide smoothly along the mountain slope. It is used to take visitors and skiers to more remote areas and additional viewpoints. The chairlift usually operates during summer and part of autumn, providing spectacular views throughout the ride.
Fermeda Chairlift Price: paid separately, ranging from €5 to €7 per ride. It is optional and only necessary if you want to reach more distant viewpoints at the top of Seceda. To visit the main viewpoint, however, you do not need to use it.
Cable Car and Chairlift Opening Hours (2025)
Main Cable Car: May 23 to November 2, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm.
Fermeda Chairlift: June 21 to September 21, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Outside of these dates, the cable car and the Fermeda Chairlift do not operate for hiking purposes.
In winter (December to April), they run exclusively for skiers with a winter ski pass.
In spring and autumn, both lifts close for maintenance, and the only way to reach Mount Seceda is through long and steep hiking trails starting from Ortisei or neighboring villages.
Therefore, if your goal is to hike and enjoy the views without too much effort, the best season to visit is summer, from May 23 to November 2, 2025.
Photo Point Extra Fee in the Mount Seceda
Along the trail, there was an extra charge of €5 to access a viewpoint and take photos. We paid it, but honestly, we did not think it was worth it, since there are many other free spots with even better views for photography.
What is the Dolomiti Supersummer Pass?
The Dolomiti Supersummer is a pass that allows you to use cable cars and lifts across different towns and mountains in the Dolomites for a set period of time. It covers cable cars, gondolas, and chairlifts throughout the region. Therefore, it is especially worth it if you plan to visit several places on the same day or over consecutive days.
What the Dolomiti Supersummer includes
The pass offers unlimited access to around 140 cable cars and chairlifts spread across different Dolomite regions, including Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi, Alta Badia, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val di Fassa, Marmolada, and many more. In addition, it includes bike transport, which is especially useful for those who want to explore trails by cycling. It is important to note that the pass is personal and non-transferable.
Price Options (2025):
| Pass Type | Adult (€) | Junior (<18) (€) | Children (<8) |
| 1 day | 65 | 46 | Free with adult |
| 3 out of 4 days | 140 | 98 | Free with adult |
| 5 out of 7 days | 180 | 126 | Free with adult |
| Seasonal Pass | 410 | 285 | 205 (with adult) |
Valid: May 23 to November 9, 2025.
👉 Link to purchase: Val Gardena Dolomiti Supersummer Card
Is the Dolomiti Supersummer Worth It?
This pass is ideal for those who want to explore several cable cars in one or more days, especially in such a diverse region as the Dolomites. It offers excellent value for money and is a great option for families or groups looking for flexibility without needing to buy individual tickets. In addition, it includes bike transport, which makes it perfect for those who wish to combine hiking trails with cycling adventures.
Best Time to Visit the Dolomites
During the summer, from June to September, the days are long and the weather is pleasant, with all trails and cable cars in operation. This makes it the perfect season for hiking and photography. In autumn, particularly in October, there are fewer crowds, and the stunning colors of the foliage create a breathtaking spectacle, although some cable cars begin to close for the season. In winter, the area becomes ideal for skiing; however, for those who prefer hiking, access may be more limited and the cold is intense.
We visited several times, always in summer, and we highly recommend this period. The scenery is lush and green, the views are incredible, and most importantly, everything is open and fully operational.
Where to Stay to visita Seceda Mount
Ortisei is the best option for those who want convenience, as the cable car to Mount Seceda departs directly from this village. The town offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to family-run guesthouses, all within walking distance of the station. On the other hand, Alpe di Siusi is ideal if you prefer a higher location surrounded by nature and tranquility. However, keep in mind that this choice requires traveling by car or bus to reach Ortisei.
Bolzano, the capital of the province, stands out for its excellent infrastructure, offering a wide range of hotels, restaurants, shops, and transport options. This city is a strategic base for those who want to explore not only Mount Seceda but also many other attractions in the Dolomites. The distance to Ortisei is about 40 km, with easy access by both car and public transport.
Other alternatives are the charming villages of Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena, both neighboring Ortisei. They offer a quieter atmosphere, smaller accommodations, and a more reserved ambiance.
If your trip is short and your main focus is Mount Seceda and its surroundings, Ortisei is the most recommended option. However, if you plan to explore several Dolomite regions, including lakes and other valleys, Bolzano is an excellent base. During our trip, we chose to stay in Bolzano, as we found it more convenient for exploring the whole region. In addition, the city has a vibrant center filled with restaurants, good coffee shops, gelaterias, and shops, we highly recommend it.
Other Useful Tips to visit Seceda Mount
- Bring a windbreaker jacket, even in summer, as it is always windy at the top.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails.
- Carry water and always have something to eat while hiking.
- Arrive early to avoid long lines and to enjoy the soft morning light for photography.
Our Opinion
Mount Seceda is one of those places that make the entire trip to the Dolomites worthwhile. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, easy access, and well-organized infrastructure, it is perfect for those who love nature but also appreciate comfort. With a little planning, you can enjoy every moment and return home with unforgettable memories and photos. 📸♥️
For more tips about Dolomites in Italy, read:
Dolomites Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Italy
Lake Braies, Dolomites: What to Do, When to Go & How to Visit
Passo Sella, Dolomites: What to Do and How to Get There
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