The Viel del Pan Trail is one of the most famous and scenic hikes in the Dolomites, easily accessible from Val di Fassa. Its name literally means “Bread Path”: in the past, merchants from the Belluno area used this route to transport flour and other goods to the Ladin valleys. Today, it is one of the most popular panoramic trails—perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a relaxing walk surrounded by nature, with breathtaking views of the Marmolada Glacier, the Sella Group, Piz Boè, and Sassolungo.
The hike is easy and suitable for all hikers with a minimum level of fitness. The route develops at high altitude, mostly flat, allowing you to experience the magic of the UNESCO Dolomites up close.
Itinerary from Col dei Rossi
The most convenient and panoramic starting point for the Viel del Pan Trail is Col dei Rossi (2,383 m). You can reach it by taking the Canazei–Pecol gondola lift followed by the Col dei Rossi cable car, or directly from Alba di Canazei.
From Col dei Rossi, follow trail no. 601, descending slightly toward Rifugio Belvedere, where the real traverse begins. After about 20 minutes, you reach Rifugio Fredarola, offering stunning views of the Sella Group and Piz Boè.
From there, the path continues almost flat along the ridge to Rifugio Viel del Pan (2,432 m) in about one hour. The panorama is incomparable: in front of you stands the Marmolada, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” with Lake Fedaia at its foot. Hikers can continue towards the lake or to Porta Vescovo and Rifugio Luigi Gorza, both offering privileged viewpoints over the Dolomites.
Technical data from Col dei Rossi:
- Col dei Rossi – Col de Paussa: +133 m / -127 m | 4.2 km | 1h 30min
- Col dei Rossi – Lake Fedaia (Rifugio Marmolada Castiglioni): +168 m / -481 m | 7 km | 2h 35min
- Col dei Rossi – Porta Vescovo (Rifugio Luigi Gorza): +340 m / -212 m | 7 km | 2h 35min
Itinerary from Passo Pordoi
Another equally scenic option starts from Passo Pordoi, the mountain pass linking Canazei and Arabba. You can park your car at the pass (paid parking) and take trail no. 601 towards Rifugio Fredarola.
The first section is uphill but not too demanding: in about 35 minutes and a 167 m ascent, you reach the hut, which connects to the route coming from Col dei Rossi. From here, the path continues along the panoramic Viel del Pan, surrounded by lush green meadows and jagged Dolomite peaks.
The view is among the most beautiful in the entire Alps: the Marmolada Glacier dominates the horizon, with the Sella, Sassolungo, and Catinaccio groups in the distance.
Technical data from Passo Pordoi:
Passo Pordoi – Rifugio Fredarola: +167 m | 1.3 km | 35 min
From there, continue along the same route towards Rifugio Viel del Pan and beyond.
Useful Tips
The Viel del Pan Trail is accessible from late June to early October, depending on weather conditions and the opening of lift facilities. Always check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and cable car schedules before setting out.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windproof jacket. On clear days, the views are among the most spectacular in the Dolomites—an unforgettable experience for every nature lover.
