Four days of hiking through some of the most iconic landscapes of the Dolomites: dense forests, bright high‑altitude meadows, towering rock walls and valleys shaped by time. An itinerary that starts in the heart of Castelrotto and gradually leaves the noise behind, entering a world of unspoilt nature, ancient traditions and ever‑changing scenery.
Day 1 – From Castelrotto to Rifugio Vicenza
From the centre of Castelrotto, the trail climbs toward the Bullaccia, a natural balcony overlooking the Alpe di Siusi. It continues across the plateau and reaches the Saltira basin (Piani di Confine), where the landscape opens onto meadows and Dolomite slopes. From here, the route enters the valley that divides the Sassolungo, a dramatic and spectacular environment. At the foot of the Sassopiatto stands Rifugio Vicenza, the first stop of the journey.
Day 2 – From Rifugio Vicenza to Lake Antermoia
From the hut, the route heads toward Rifugio Sassopiatto (2,300 m), reachable via two options:
- the O. Schuster via ferrata, suitable for experienced hikers;
- the easier path passing by Rifugio Toni Demetz, on the Sassolungo saddle, with views stretching from Sass Pordoi to the Marmolada.
The trail then descends to Passo Sella and follows the Friedrich August path to Rifugio Sassopiatto. It continues toward Passo Duron, descends to Malga Docoldaura and climbs again to Passo delle Ciarégole, places linked to the legend of Oswald von Wolkenstein and the beautiful Antermoia. The day ends on the shores of the enchanting Lake Antermoia, one of the most fascinating in the Dolomites.
Day 3 – From Lake Antermoia to Rifugio Bolzano
The route enters the Antermoia Valley heading west. Again, two options are available:
- climb to the summit of the Catinaccio (3,002 m),
- or bypass it from the south to reach Rifugio Passo Principe.
This is the realm of King Laurin and his legendary Rose Garden. From Passo Principe, the trail climbs north over Passo Molignon, tackling a short equipped section, and reaches Rifugio Alpe di Tires. The final stretch leads to Rifugio Bolzano, at the foot of the Sciliar.
Day 4 – From Rifugio Bolzano to Castelrotto
The descent follows the Fossa dello Sciliar along trail no. 1, reaching Malga Tuf and the Fiè Lakes, among the most beloved in South Tyrol. The route continues on trail no. 2, which skirts the north‑west side of the mountain. After passing Hotel Salegg, the path enters the forest toward Castelvecchio, descends to Siusi and completes the loop back to Castelrotto.
Why this trek is special
- It crosses three iconic Dolomite groups: Sassolungo–Sassopiatto, Catinaccio, Sciliar.
- It alternates forests, plateaus, saddles and high‑altitude lakes.
- It offers options for expert hikers and easier passages for those who prefer classic trails.
- It tells stories and legends that belong to Ladin and Tyrolean identity.
