Hike Seceda: one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Dolomites
Welcome to Seceda: where hiking meets breathtaking views
How to reach Seceda: by cable car or on foot?
Getting to the top of Seceda can be as easy or as adventurous as you wish. Most visitors start their trip to Seceda from Ortisei, the charming alpine town at the heart of Val Gardena. From there, you can either take the cable car or hike to Seceda without a lift. Both options lead you to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Dolomites.
Taking the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car
The most convenient way to reach Seceda is via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car, which runs in two sections — from Ortisei (1,236 m) to Furnes (1,732 m), and then from Furnes to the top of the Seceda cable carstation at 2,518 m.
The cable car ride takes about 15 minutes in total and offers sweeping views over Val Gardena. Tickets can be purchased directly at the cable car station in Ortisei, and during summer, lifts usually operate from late May to mid-October (check local schedules for exact dates).
Once at the top, you’ll step right onto the Seceda ridgeline, where the iconic viewpoint is only a short walk away. This makes it ideal for travelers who want to visit Seceda without long hikes but still experience one of the most breathtaking spots in the Dolomites.
If you plan to take the cable car back to Ortisei, remember to check the time of the last ride — typically around 5 PM in summer — to avoid being stranded at the top.
Along the Seceda ridgeline: breathtaking views and highlights
Once you reach the Seceda ridgeline, it feels like stepping into another world — an amphitheater of peaks and pastures suspended between earth and sky. From here, you can gaze across the Val di Funes, spot the Sassolungo and Sella Group, and even see as far as the Austrian Alps on clear days.
The Seceda viewpoint is among the most photographed spots in the Dolomites, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light paints the Fermeda Towers in shades of gold and pink.
The famous Seceda viewpoint
The main Seceda viewpoint is just a few minutes’ walk from the top of the cable car station. You’ll recognize it instantly — a grassy ridge descending into a dramatic drop, with the jagged Fermeda peaks rising beyond.
This is the place where countless photographers set up their tripods before dawn, waiting for the first rays of light to hit the limestone cliffs. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds thin and the colors are magical.
In Summer, wildflowers sprinkle the meadows, creating a perfect natural frame for your photos. In autumn, the golden light and quieter atmosphere make it equally enchanting.
Hiking along the Seceda ridge
From this viewpoint, you can hike along the Seceda ridgeline toward the Rifugio Firenze or loop around the summit of Seceda. The trails here are not particularly technical, though some sections are steep.
Along the Seceda ridge, you’ll find benches and panoramic points ideal for a snack or a short rest. On clear days, you might even spot paragliders launching into the sky — a vivid reminder of how high you’ve climbed above the valley floor.
Hike to Rifugio Firenze and beyond
A perfect way to extend your trip to Seceda is by hiking down to Rifugio Firenze, one of the most scenic and welcoming mountain huts in the Dolomites.
The hiking trail from Seceda to Rifugio Firenze descends through alpine meadows filled with gentians and edelweiss. The route is part of the Puez-Odle Nature Park, meaning protected landscapes and wildlife surround you.
Rifugio Firenze: a perfect stop for rest and views
Located at 2,037 meters, Rifugio Firenze offers warm hospitality, hearty local dishes, and unbeatable views over the Odle peaks. You can enjoy lunch on the sunny terrace or even spend the night if you wish to experience the Dolomites under the stars.
This rifugio is a great place to recharge before heading back to Ortisei, and its menu often includes South Tyrolean specialties like barley soup, dumplings, and apple strudel — comfort food after a rewarding hike.
Back to Ortisei: hiking or taking the cable car
From Rifugio Firenze, you can either hike back down to Ortisei or take the cable car back to the valley.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll keep panoramic views all the way down — a true highlight of any Dolomites itinerary.
Practical tips for planning your trip to Seceda
The best time to visit Seceda is from late June to early October, when the trails are clear of snow and the cable cars are running. July and August bring vibrant wildflowers and long daylight hours, while September offers fewer crowds and golden hues.
Always check the weather forecast before you go; mountain conditions can change quickly. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and good hiking boots.
If you’re planning to hike Seceda without a cable car, start early to avoid heat and crowds.
In case of bad weather, you can explore the museums, shops, or cozy cafés of Ortisei — or let us help you design an alternative Dolomites day trip tailored to the season.
Why Seceda should be on your Dolomites itinerary
Seceda isn’t just another mountain — it’s a feeling of wonder that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. Between the accessibility of the cable car, the rewarding hikes, and the views that stretch across the Dolomites, it’s a destination that embodies everything travelers love about these mountains.
Whether you come for photography, hiking, or to breathe the alpine air, Seceda in the Dolomites offers something timeless — a perfect balance of ease, beauty, and authenticity.
At InfoDolomites, we live here and walk these trails often. We know how to match your pace and interests to the perfect Dolomites experience — from a sunrise hike at Seceda viewpoint to a relaxed lunch at a rifugio.
Let us help you plan your hike to Seceda, so all you have to do is enjoy the moment — while we take care of the details.
→ Contact us to start planning your tailor-made trip to the Dolomites.
