Welcome to the first chapter of our journey through the breathtaking Dolomites in Italy! Located in the northeastern Alps, the Dolomites are an expansive mountain range covering over 15,900 square kilometers (6,000 square miles). With its picturesque alpine villages and exceptional natural beauty, it’s no wonder why this region is a dream destination for travelers. One such village, Ortisei, serves as the perfect gateway to the Dolomites and has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.
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Ortisei: Gateway to the Dolomites
A Charming Alpine Village
Ortisei (Urtijëi in Ladin, St. Ulrich in German) is a quintessential alpine village brimming with charm. Nestled in the Val Gardena region, it offers convenient access to two must-visit destinations: Seceda and Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm). The village’s traditional Tyrolean architecture and picturesque scenery transport you to a storybook setting that feels both welcoming and magical.
The accommodations here are lovely—even if you didn’t splurge on a luxury stay, the views from even the humblest guesthouse window are stunning. Many windows are framed like art pieces, intentionally showcasing the beauty of the surroundings. The compact size of Ortisei makes it easy to explore, and the village is well-connected by cable cars, which whisk you into the heart of the Dolomites.
If you’re on a budget, like I was, you might end up staying on the hill overlooking the town instead of in the more expensive accommodations along the stream in the village center. But don’t worry! The whole village is postcard-perfect, and the stroll down to the cable cars is worth it for the experience.
Alpe di Siusi: A Journey to the Largest High Alpine Meadow in Europe
Taking the Cable Car to Alpe di Siusi
Getting to Alpe di Siusi from Ortisei is straightforward, thanks to the well-run Ortisei-Alpe di Siusi cable car system.
2026 Operating Hours
- May 1 – June 5: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- June 6 – October 16: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- October 17 – November 2: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Ticket Prices
- Adults: €29 one-way, €41 round trip
- Children (8–14 years): €20.30 one-way, €28.70 round trip
- Children under 8: Free if accompanied by paying parents
Opening hours and ticket prices vary each year, and operations may be affected by weather conditions. To ensure accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official Ortisei-Alpe di Siusi Ropeway | Mont Sëuc website.
Pro Tip: Ticket prices rise every year (it used to be €19 one-way in 2023), and I highly recommend getting a round-trip ticket unless you’re ready for an arduous hike back. I learned the hard way and ended up being exhausted by the hike down.
The cable car ride itself is a breathtaking experience, but the real magic begins as soon as you step off. The views of the vast meadows, framed by the rugged peaks of the Sassolungo (Gruppo del Sassolungo), make the ticket price feel like a bargain.
Dolomites Travel Guide: Weather, Transportation, Cable Cars & Summer Passes
Hiking in Alpe di Siusi
Alpe di Siusi, or “Seiser Alm,” is Europe’s largest high-altitude plateau and one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the Dolomites. The cable car drops you off at an elevation of around 2,000 meters (6,560 feet), where you’ll be greeted by sweeping meadows and dramatic mountain peaks.
Highlights of the Hike
- Views of Sassolungo, with its towering cliffs and awe-inspiring presence.
- Encounters with alpacas—these animals thrive in this high-altitude environment.
- Expansive meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a sense of tranquility and renewal.
The trails here are relatively easy to navigate and mostly flat, making them suitable for all ages. Even if you don’t have time to explore extensively, simply walking around near the cable car station provides incredible views.
During certain seasons, wildflowers blanket the meadows in vibrant colors. Although they were just beginning to bloom during my visit, lying down amidst this serene landscape was still an unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking for variety during your trek, turn your gaze back toward Sassolungo or explore different parts of this vast plateau—you’ll never run out of stunning sights. Unfortunately, I couldn’t hike closer to Sassolungo due to time constraints—a regret I still carry!
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the last cable car departure time. I missed it and had to descend on foot, which was a grueling journey. While the hike down offers forested paths with occasional open vistas, it’s best avoided in the dark.
Relaxation in Ortisei
Mar Dolomit Swimming Pool & Sauna
After a long day of trekking, there’s no better way to unwind than at the Mar Dolomit swimming pool and sauna. Many accommodations in Ortisei provide free tickets to this spa-like retreat. It’s well-equipped, offering both relaxation and fun for families and individuals alike.
2026 Operating Hours
- June 2 – June 12
- 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM / 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Tue, Fri)
- Outdoor swimming pool and sauna closed
- June 13 – July 23
- 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM / 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Tue, Fri)
- Sauna closed
- July 24 – September 7
- Pool: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM / 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Tue, Fri)
- Sauna: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Thu, Sat, Sun) / 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Tue, Fri)
Rates
- Pool access: €13.80 (2.5 h), €16.60 (full day)
- Pool+Sauna: €27.50 (3 h), €29.50 (full day)
Note: Saunas are available from 2 PM onwards and are closed on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Whether you’re soaking in the pool or enjoying the sauna, it’s the perfect remedy for tired muscles and a great way to pamper yourself.
Dinner at Purgers Pub
After an active day filled with hiking and swimming, treat yourself to dinner at Purgers Pub Pizzeria/Hamburger. This cozy spot serves hearty burgers and pizzas alongside German beer—a nod to the region’s Austro-German influence. The burgers here are massive and flavorful, though I personally found their fish and chips even better!
- Hours: Open daily from 4:00 PM to 12:30 AM; closed Mondays
Evenings in Ortisei
While Ortisei doesn’t offer much nightlife, its peaceful atmosphere is enchanting after sunset. Strolling through the quiet streets reveals charming details like statues of Pietà and softly lit fountains.
One standout sight was a pink-lit hotel in the village center—Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel. Curious about its luxurious appearance, I checked its price—over €1,000 per night! If you’re interested in splurging on an upscale experience, this might be worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Ortisei and Alpe di Siusi offer an unforgettable introduction to the Dolomites’ natural beauty and cultural charm. From serene Alpine landscapes to accessible hiking routes suitable for all ages, this destination has something for everyone. Whether it’s your first time visiting the Dolomites or you’re returning for another adventure, starting your journey in Ortisei will leave you with lasting memories!
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