Val Gardena’s Best Photo Spots

These are our favorite photo locations in Val Gardena, but the list is by no means complete. In fact, it was quite a challenge to reduce it to just five items! Go out and explore the valley on your own – maybe you’ll find an even better spot and take that perfect photo to share with your friends and family. Enjoy your time in the Dolomites: Memories made in Val Gardena last forever!

The iconic Sassolungo mountain has been the symbol of Val Gardena forever. While it can’t be seen in its entirety from most parts of Ortisei, the best views of Saslong are arguably accessed from this village. There are two options to get to the top of Resciesa. Either trek up (there are numerous paths) or take the Resciesa cable car. Walk west of the mountain station for an hour or two and you will soon have the perfect picture of Val Gardena.

Another view not to be missed during your time in Val Gardena is that of the Odles as seen from the top of Seceda. In winter, you can actually ski here. In summer, on the other hand, several trekking and climbing routes dot the area. As such, there are numerous ways to get here. The quickest way to get to the top of Seceda is by taking the Ortisei-Furnes and Furnes-Seceda lifts, which start in Ortisei. From the mountain station, a short walk will get you to the viewpoint. You will not regret coming here!

If you’re searching for a fairytale photo location, look no further. Set against the backdrop of the Saslong, the little church of San Giacomo – the oldest in the valley, by the way – makes for the perfect postcard from Val Gardena. Multiple paths through the forest can get you here from both Ortisei and Santa Cristina, and they will make the view even more worthwhile. Don’t miss out on one of the prettiest sights in the valley!

Part of the Puez-Odles Nature Park, Vallunga is one of the best places in Val Gardena to immerse yourself in nature. Lined with high mountains in both sides, the “long valley” always provides a spectacular sight. Vallunga is accessed from the village of Selva (parking Vallunga).

Bonus: If you get here in spring, when the snow is melting, a small but beautiful natural lake forms in Vallunga. Don't miss it!

Europe’s largest plateau offers a myriad of photo opportunities. Go skiing or trekking in the area, and chances are you’ll have to stop and take out your camera all the time. The Saslong will dominate the panorama here, albeit from a different angle than seen from other parts of the valley. Take the Alpe di Siusi lift from Ortisei and explore the area on skis, mountain bike or foot. And don’t forget to enjoy the fresh mountain air!

The Sciliar mountain is another jewel you can spot from the Alpe di Siusi plateau. Combined with green pastures in summer and snowy landscapes in winter, it’s a sight to behold. You can trek/ski/bike here from the Alpe di Siusi mountain station.

For a different but no less spectacular view of the Odles mountains, is reached after a short trek on mount Rasciesa. From Ortisei, either trek to the top of Rasciesa or take the cable car of the same name. Then, follow the directions towards the Brogles hut. If it’s summer, we recommend you trek to the hut and then up the “Panascharte”. This will get you up to the Seceda meadows, where you’ll be able to enjoy the “classic” view of the Odles!

Mount Pic is one of the smaller mountains in Val Gardena, but its central location in the valley make it one of the best viewpoints. Located between the towns of Ortisei and Santa Cristina, Pic is the perfect place to enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Dolomites. The pictures speak for themselves!

The Pic mountain is relatively quick and easy to summit. You can trek to the top in less than an hour or two - no climbing involved! Park at Praplan in Santa Cristina or take the Ortisei-Furnes and Furnes-Seceda lifts in Ortisei, then follow the directions. The latter is the easier option!