Seceda Dolomites – Iconic ridge, viewpoint & hiking area in Val Gardena

Discover Seceda in the Dolomites – a spectacular ridge above Val Gardena with panoramic views of the Odle peaks, easily reached via cable car from Ortisei.

Accommodations near Seceda

Selected accommodations near Seceda

Chalet S Dolomites - Val Gardena in South Tyrol

Chalet S Dolomites

Val Gardena in South Tyrol
4.8 Excellent
134 Reviews
  • Luxurious chalet-style rooms & suites
  • ‘Alpin Vita Sana’ wellness area
  • Culinary delights
  • Central location in the Dolomites
  • Family-run hotel
from 135.00 € per night
Mountain Residence Merk - Val Gardena in South Tyrol

Mountain Residence Merk

Val Gardena in South Tyrol
4.4 Very good
93 Reviews
  • In the middle of meadows & forests, close to the centre
  • Modern suites & apartments
  • Wellness area with panoramic sauna
  • Direct access to hiking & biking routes
  • Val Gardena Active Card included
from 55.00 € per night
Browse & request

Seceda: One of the Dolomites’ most striking viewpoints

Seceda, standing at 2,519 metres, rises above Val Gardena in South Tyrol and is regarded as one of the most distinctive viewpoints in the Dolomites. Its sweeping grass plateau drops sharply towards the Odle/Geisler peaks, creating dramatic lines and textures that have become an unmistakable image of the region. Set within the Puez-Odle Nature Park, Seceda blends rugged alpine scenery with gentle meadows, offering an accessible yet unforgettable mountain experience.

Why Seceda is so remarkable

The famous ridge & Odle peaks

The Seceda ridge is renowned for its unique knife-edge appearance, where soft grassland meets the jagged tops of the Odle peaks. This geological contrast makes it one of the most photographed locations in the Dolomites, particularly during golden hour.

Direct & convenient access from Ortisei

Most visitors reach Seceda via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car in Val Gardena, which connects the valley to the upper station in a matter of minutes. From there, a short walk leads directly to the main ridge. The ease of access makes Seceda suitable for families, photographers and travellers who prefer panoramic viewpoints without demanding climbs.

Hiking options for all levels

Seceda offers a network of well-marked hiking trails. Short loops around the ridge provide effortless viewpoints, while longer routes lead into the heart of the Puez-Odle Nature Park. Highlights for hikers include:

  • Trail to Pieralongia
  • Traverse towards Col Raiser
  • Connections to the Resciesa plateau

A favourite sunrise photography location

Thanks to its east-facing orientation, Seceda is celebrated as a sunrise hotspot. Early light illuminates the Odle peaks, creating soft, dramatic shadows that attract photographers from around the world.

Winter sports

Seceda transforms into a winter wonderland, offering various snow activities, like skiing and snowboarding. The homonymous ski area is part of the larger Dolomiti Superski, boasting well-groomed slopes suitable for all skill levels. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Seceda’s winter landscapes at a slower pace.

Alternative activities

During the summer, Seceda is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Paragliding off its cliffs and steep meadows offers a unique perspective of the Dolomites. Also, the area features several mountain biking trails, ranging from easy to difficult.

Impressions

Choosing Seceda as your base in the Dolomites

Travellers choose Seceda for its combination of easy accessibility, high-altitude views and central location in Val Gardena. Staying in Ortisei or nearby villages allows quick access to Seceda while keeping you close to other top attractions such as Alpe di Siusi, the Sella Massif, and the Sassolungo mountain range. Its mix of easy ridge walks and more challenging routes makes it ideal for couples, families and travellers seeking postcard-perfect scenery without long approaches.

How to reach Seceda

Getting to Seceda is convenient, whether you are driving or using public transportation.

Directions

  • By car: From Bolzano, take the A22 motorway towards Val Gardena. Follow the signs to Ortisei, where you can take a cable car to Seceda.
  • By public transport: Regular buses run from Bolzano and other nearby cities to Ortisei. From there, the Seceda cable car provides a scenic ride to the summit.

Parking facilities

For those driving, there are ample parking facilities available in Ortisei, including both short-term and long-term options.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Seceda in the Dolomites?

Seceda is located above Val Gardena in South Tyrol, within the Puez-Odle Nature Park. It overlooks the Odle/Geisler peaks and is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Dolomites.

How do you get to Seceda in the Dolomites?

The easiest way to reach Seceda is via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car, which brings you close to the ridge in just a few minutes. Alternative routes start from Col Raiser or the Resciesa plateau.

Is the Seceda ridge suitable for beginner hikers?

Yes, the short paths from the upper cable-car station are suitable for beginners and families. Longer routes into the Puez-Odle Nature Park require more fitness and proper hiking footwear. Also, always check the weather forecast before heading out and ensure you have the appropriate gear for your chosen activity, as Seceda is a mountain, where weather may change quickly.

What is Seceda famous for?

Seceda is best known for its dramatic ridge facing the jagged Odle peaks, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in the Dolomites. It is also popular for sunrise photography and panoramic hikes.