Best Hikes near San Vigilio di Marebbe

San Vigilio di Marebbe is a privileged starting point for some of the finest hikes in the Dolomites. Nestled between the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park and the Plan de Corones ski area, this small Ladin gem offers direct access to trails ranging from easy panoramic walks to demanding high-altitude treks.

We have selected the 5 best hikes reachable from San Vigilio, with all the practical information you need to plan your day in the mountains. And if you want to add a dose of adrenaline to your holiday, our zipline is the perfect complement.

1. Piz de Putia (2,875 m)

The iconic peak of Val di Funes, also reachable from Val Badia.

Duration: 5–6 hours (round trip)
Elevation gain: approximately 1,000 m
Difficulty: moderate to hard (experienced hikers)
Trailhead: Passo delle Erbe (reachable by car from San Vigilio in approximately 40 minutes)

Piz de Putia is one of the most iconic peaks of the northern Dolomites. Its unmistakable pyramidal shape dominates the landscape and is visible from much of Val Badia. The ascent starts from Passo delle Erbe and winds through flowering alpine meadows before becoming steeper and rockier in the final section.

From the summit, the panorama is extraordinary: the Odle group, the Sella massif, the Marmolada and, on the clearest days, all the way to the Austrian Alps. This hike demands good fitness and a sure foot, but it rewards every single step.

Start early in the morning to avoid the summer afternoon thunderstorms that are frequent above 2,500 m. Always check the weather forecast before setting out and bring appropriate clothing for rapid changes in conditions at altitude.

2. Rifugio Fanes (2,060 m)

The classic hike into the heart of Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park.

Duration: 4–5 hours (round trip)
Elevation gain: approximately 600 m
Difficulty: moderate (regular hikers)
Trailhead: Pederue (car park approximately 10 minutes from San Vigilio)

The hike to Rifugio Fanes is probably the most classic route from San Vigilio. Starting from the Pederue car park, it climbs gradually through conifer forests and alpine pastures to reach the Fanes plateau, one of the most evocative landscapes in the Dolomites.

The refuge sits in a spectacular position, surrounded by Dolomite walls and small alpine lakes. It is the ideal spot for a lunch with a view before heading back down. For those with more time, it is possible to continue to Lago di Limo or Rifugio Lavarella.

3. Col de Putia (2,436 m)

A more accessible alternative to Piz de Putia, with equally spectacular views.

Duration: 3–4 hours (round trip)
Elevation gain: approximately 650 m
Difficulty: easy to moderate (regular hikers)
Trailhead: Passo delle Erbe

Col de Putia offers a panorama almost comparable to its taller neighbour, but with less effort and without exposed sections. It is the ideal option for those who want to enjoy the Dolomites view without tackling an overly demanding hike.

The trail crosses alpine meadows rich with wildflowers in summer and offers incredible glimpses of the Odle and Val di Funes. At the top, a large cross marks the perfect vantage point for photographs.

Combine Your Hike with the Zipline

4. Sas dla Crusc — Santa Croce (2,907 m)

One of the most rewarding hikes in the Dolomites, with the celebrated refuge as a waypoint.

Duration: 6–7 hours (round trip to the summit)
Elevation gain: approximately 1,200 m
Difficulty: hard (experienced hikers)
Trailhead: La Val / San Leonardo in Badia (approximately 20 minutes from San Vigilio)

Sas dla Crusc, or Heiligkreuzkofel, is one of the most impressive mountains in Val Badia. The classic hike includes a stop at Rifugio Santa Croce (2,045 m), reachable in approximately 2 hours on a well-marked trail.

From the refuge, more experienced hikers can continue to the summit on a partially equipped trail requiring a sure foot and a head for heights. The view from the top is among the finest in the entire Dolomites range: the whole of Val Badia, the Sella, the Civetta and the Tofane.

For those who prefer a gentler outing, the trail to the refuge alone is already magnificent, with the chance to lunch on the most panoramic canederli in South Tyrol.

5. Plan de Corones (2,275 m)

The signature mountain of Val Pusteria, home to the Messner Mountain Museum.

Duration: 3–4 hours (round trip on foot) or ascent by cable car
Elevation gain: approximately 800 m (on foot)
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Trailhead: San Vigilio (cable car) or various walking trails

Plan de Corones is reachable from San Vigilio by cable car in just a few minutes, or on foot for those who prefer to earn the view with their own legs. At the top stands the Messner Mountain Museum Corones, designed by Zaha Hadid and dedicated to traditional mountaineering.

The panorama from the summit is 360 degrees: from the Sesto Dolomites to the Ortles, from the Grossglockner to the Zillertal Alps. In winter, Plan de Corones is one of South Tyrol's most famous ski areas; in summer, it becomes a paradise for hikers and bikers.

The cable car from San Vigilio to Plan de Corones operates in summer too. Check updated timetables and consider the Val Pusteria Hiking Card for savings on transport.

Practical Hiking Tips

What to Bring

Hiking boots with non-slip soles (not trainers!)
Waterproof and windproof jacket
High-factor sunscreen and sunglasses
At least 1.5 litres of water per person
Energy snacks (nuts, bars)
Trekking poles (recommended for descents)

Best Time

High-altitude hikes are feasible from mid-June to late September. In June there may still be snow on the higher passes. July and August offer the best conditions but also the most crowds. September is often the ideal month: clear skies, pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors.

Safety

Always check the weather forecast before setting out
Tell someone your planned route
Do not underestimate the stated timings
In the event of a thunderstorm, descend immediately

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