Alta Badia to Val Gardena Hiking Traverse

Arrive in Alta Badia at your leisure (private transfers available on request) and check into your hotel. Set in a wide valley surrounded by majestic peaks, Alta Badia truly lies at the heart of the Dolomites. Geographically located in South Tyrol (Südtirol), this region was part of Austria until the end of World War I. You'll be immersed in spectacular mountain scenery, where charming villages reflect both natural beauty and deep-rooted traditions. Experience the simple, authentic lifestyle of the local Ladin people, and discover the rich customs and heritage of this ancient culture.
 

Kick off the day with a hike across the Gardenacia plateau above the town of La Villa, where you’ll be treated to stunning views over the Alta Badia valley and the striking Sass de la Crusc mountain.
Spend the night in a cozy rifugio at the eastern edge of the Puez-Odle Nature Park, set amidst open meadows dotted with larch trees. From here, enjoy sweeping views over Alta Badia and the surrounding peaks, including Conturines, Lavarella, the Tofane range, Pelmo, Civetta, and Marmolada.
(~2 hours hiking, 2,3 km / 1,4 miles, 572 m / 1,877' ascent. Optional hikes are available from the rifugio.)
 

Today’s hike follows a stunning section of Alta Via n.2, one of the Dolomites’ most spectacular long-distance “high routes.” This trail will lead you into the heart of the Puez-Odle Nature Park, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and geological significance.
Spanning 10,722 hectares (25,194 acres), the Puez-Odle Nature Park—known as Naturpark Puez-Geisler in German—is part of the Dolomite Mountains UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll witness the fascinating geological history of the Dolomites, with abundant fossils offering a rare glimpse into different epochs of the Earth’s past.
Your day ends at a cozy rifugio nestled at the foot of the towering Sass Rigais, the perfect spot to rest and soak in the mountain atmosphere.
(~5,5 hours hiking 12,7km / 7,8 miles, 838m / 2,749' ascent, 854m / 2,802' descent.)

In the morning, leave your rifugio and follow a trail winding through alpine meadows and forests, offering stunning views of the Odle peaks. The path gradually ascends past the Seceda area, eventually leading to the scenic Resciesa ridge. Arrive at another cozy rifugio, where you can enjoy dinner with panoramic views before settling in for the night.
(~4 hours hiking 9,7km / 6 miles, 615m / 2,018' ascent, 486m / 1,594' descent.)

Today, you’ll enjoy a scenic hike that will allow you to admire one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Dolomites. A beautiful and not boring route in a special setting, away from the hustle and bustle of Val Gardena.
The path reaches a ridge to a summit cross just above last night’s rifugio, where the view is really splendid. It goes on porphyry slabs and afterwards through woods to reach a small hamlet from where you will have a private transfer back to your hotel.
(~3-4 hours hiking 7,3 km / 4,5 miles, 116m / 380' ascent, 956m / 3,136' descent.)

Breakfast and departure at your discretion (private transfer available on request).