> Cross the Puez-Odle Nature Park in 3 days
> Follow the first stage of the Alta Via 2
> Spend two nights in comfortable mountain huts along the route
This 3-day trek follows the opening part of the Alta Via 2, right through the Puez-Odle Nature Park. It’s a compact route, but it gives you a proper feel for the Dolomites. You start lower down in Bressanone and gradually work your way into more rugged terrain, with wide views, quiet trails, and long stretches above the tree line.
The days are varied. You begin in forested slopes, move into alpine meadows, and then onto higher mountain paths with views of the Odle peaks and surrounding groups. The overnight stays at Gampenalm and Rifugio Juac keep things comfortable without taking away from the mountain feel.
This trek suits hikers who want a short but complete experience. It’s intermediate level, with steady climbs and a few longer days, but nothing technical. You finish in Ortisei, descending back into Val Gardena with the mountains still fresh in your legs.
A rugged Dolomites crossing with proper bite: from the green pastures around Gampenalm the trail climbs into the wild limestone world of Puez-Odle, then rolls south towards the Seceda side. Views of Sobutsch (2,486 m), Wasserkofel (2,644 m) and the sharp Puez skyline make this a big, beautiful mountain stage.
The route rises steadily from the alpine meadows to the high shoulder near Croce Pass and the Puez-Odle Nature Park, before dropping into rougher ground below Forcella Roa. After the main climb, the path undulates across open slopes with views towards Vallunga, Seceda and the Sassolungo group. The final stretch eases into a long descent through softer slopes and forest edges.
Rifugio Juac appears in a gentler corner of the mountains, nicely tucked above Selva. Boots off, shoulders down, and that Dolomite glow all around: this is a proper place to land after a big, stony day out.
A scenic descent from Rifugio Juac to Ortisei, with the high drama of the Odle and Sassolungo groups slowly giving way to softer meadows, forest paths and the first signs of Val Gardena life. It is mostly downhill, but the opening kilometres still have a little bite before the route settles into its long glide towards the valley.
From the hut, the trail follows open slopes with views towards Seceda, the Odle Group and Sassolungo. After a gentle climb to the highest point of the route, the path bends west across grassy hillsides and quiet woodland. The big descent starts after the panoramic upper section, dropping steadily past mountain tracks, scattered farms and viewpoints above Ortisei.
The final kilometres ease into the edge of Ortisei, where mountain silence turns into village buzz. Cafés, church towers and Val Gardena charm take over nicely here. After the long drop from the high pastures, arriving in town feels smooth, sunny and well earned.
