Much more than just an vast Alpine meadow that happens to be surrounded by the stunning peaks of the Dolomites, Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high altitude mountain plateau and kept us enraptured by its spectacular views, huge array of outdoor activities and incredibly fun trails to ride – and that’s without mentioning the fine food on offer.
Getting there
Around three hours’ drive from Munich, take the Brenner motorway, then Klausen exit off the A22 to reach Alpe di Siusi. After leaving the A22, it’s around 20 minutes to Suisi/Seis, where you can catch the Alpe di Siusi cable car to reach the dizzy heights of the plateau. Another alternative is to take the cable car from Ortisei/St. Ulrich in Gröden.
The region’s best trails
Together with the region of Val Gardena/Gröden, Alpe di Siusi has a vast and diverse network of trail and touring routes that stretch over 1,000 km in length and includes many brilliant family-friendly trails. As a holiday destination, Alpe di Siusi has three levels of riding on offer: valley trails, routes around the towns of Castelrotto, Fiè, Siusi and Tiers, as well as panoramic rides that traverse the plateau. These plateau rides are largely on gravel fire roads, but there’s always opportunity to follow trails that head dip down into the lower altitudes. Our personal highlight was a route that started at the viewpoint on the west side of Alpe di Siusi and headed down towards Fiè allo Sciliar/Völser Weiher.
Culinary highlights
Alongside its beautiful scenery, South Tyrol dishes up some vastly diverse culinary treats at all of its mountain huts and many restaurants. Fusing the best of Mediterranean cuisine with good old traditional Alpine fare, what you end up eating is a fantastically inimitable blend of flavours.
Where to stay
There’s a host of accommodation to choose from, both on the plateau itself as well as in the lower villages. You can find the perfect option to suit your trip on Seiseralm.it.
Best time to travel
Early June to the end of October marks the best time to visit the higher altitudes of Alpe di Siusi, where you’ll be greeted with breathtaking wildlife, plants and lush green meadows. During spring and autumn, your best bet is to head to the villages at the foot of the plateau.
Alpe di Suisi’s 3 Must-Dos:
- Plunge into Laghetto di Fiè, the lake in Fiè allo Sciliar after your ride
- Spoil yourself with some proper mountain food at one of the mountain refuges
- Traipse your way up 2,000 metres of altitude to be rewarded with the incredible descent off Alpe di Tires/Tierser Alpl.
More information
For more information on the region and hotel bookings, visit:
Don’t miss our other spotchecks from South Tyrol:
Spotcheck: Eisacktal/Valle Isarco – The Valley of Trails
Spotcheck: Val Gardena – A Stunning Valley in the Dolomites
Words & Pictures: Christoph Bayer
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
