Short Alta Via 2 - Alternative Route

Your trek kicks off with a mostly uphill stage, easing you into the rhythm of the mountains. Leaving Lajen behind, the trail leads you steadily upward, passing the charming Church of St. Jacob and Valentin. Not far along, you'll reach the Unterpulghütte hut – a perfect spot to take a break and recharge with a drink or snack.

As you continue climbing, keep an eye out for the unique sculptures carved into the forest trees – a creative touch that adds a bit of magic to the trail. A little further on, just before reaching today’s final destination, you'll arrive at a panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping views over the valley around Lajen. After one last stretch, you’ll arrive at Rifugio Resciesa – your home for the night.

From Resciesa Hut, head towards Seceda, following a scenic path through alpine meadows with stunning views of the Odle Group. The route gradually ascends before reaching Fermeda Hut, a great spot for a break. From here, continue past the Seceda chairlift station, where you’ll get one of the most iconic panoramas in the Dolomites.

The trail then descends through rolling pastures before entering forested terrain. The final stretch is steeper as you make your way down to Rifugio Firenze, nestled in the heart of the Puez-Odle Nature Park.

From Rifugio Firenze (Regensburgerhütte), hike toward the town of Selva Gardena. When you reach Daunëi, stay on path 3, hiking through Val de Chedul. From here there is a succession of slight ascents and descents, splits, boulders, small towers and meadows until you reach the wide Dolomite saddle of Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch, 2,121 m). Your trek ends at Passo Gardena. From here you can take a bus back to Bressanone or Bolzano, depending on your itinerary.