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Hiking

Explore the fascinating mountain world of the Dolomites on well-marked hiking trails that lead through breathtaking landscapes with their imposing rock formations and lush green meadows. From leisurely panoramic walks to challenging summit tours, the Dolomites offer ideal adventures for every level of hiker. Become one with the Alpine natural world, savour the clear mountain air and marvel at the spectacular views.

Hiking in the Puster Valley, mountain biking & more

Spending your summer holiday in the Dolomites means: experiencing pure diversity with all your senses while hiking in Val Pusteria. Where contrasting mountain formations meet blossoming alpine meadows, you can conquer legendary tour classics today, hidden idylls and secret spots tomorrow. The Dolomites region 3 Zinnen is full of adventures waiting to be experienced by you.

If you are looking for an adrenaline kick, the Dolomites are the place to be. The region offers numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts such as via ferratas, mountain bike trails, rafting tours and paragliding flights. There are also many activities for families, such as a visit to the high ropes course, a ride on the summer toboggan run or an adventure in the climbing garden. In addition, you can swim in the clear mountain lakes, stop at the cosy huts and enjoy regional delicacies or simply take in the picturesque landscape. A summer holiday in the Dolomites is therefore an unforgettable experience for every taste.

Pssst! Our service for hikers!
  • 2 x weekly hikes, from easy to challenging *
  • Free use of walking sticks
  • SouthTyrolGuestPass for the use of all public transportation means in South Tyrol for free
  • Hiking maps, brochures and information about the area
  • Washing machine and dryer

*depending on the requests, subject to change

Barbara's Hiking Recommendation

From Prato Piazza to the Strudelkopf

Start in Villabassa with the public bus (line 443) to Prato Piazza and from there the path leads to the Plätzwiese alpine hut. Take trail no. 40 A past the hut and continue along trail no. 34 to the saddle and over easy terrain to the summit of the Strudelkopf (2,307 m). The ascent is already characterised by the breathtaking panorama of the great peaks of the Braies Dolomites such as the Hohe Gaisl or the Seekofel. The Strudelkopf offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the Dolomites and of the splendour of the World Heritage Site with the peaks of the Three Peaks, the Cadini group, Monte Cristallo, the Tofana and the Marmolada. The Homecoming Cross and the World Heritage Terrace on the summit invite you to linger. The way back is via the Dürrenstein hut (2,040 m) a. We return to the starting point via the track (no. 37).

5 mountains ready to be explored: off to the mountain train!

In no time at all you arrive at the mountain railways * of the 3 Peaks Dolomites area with various areas to be explored, divided on five mountains, Helm, Stiergarten, Rotwand, Haunold and Comelico.

*There's a lovely surprise for guests staying in Alta Pusteria! The "3 Zinnen Mountain Card" is a pass valid for several days, allowing unlimited use of all the ski lifts in the Three Peaks Dolomites area. The pass is also great for MTB enthusiasts, who can take their bikes with them in the cable car and start their adventures up in the peaks.

  • Haunold: made for families … kids big and small, and those who are still kids at heart will love the giant Haunold. Highlights: the circular trail of the giant, the FunBob summer toboggan run, the “Zwergenparcours” ropes course, a lake for wading barefoot, a tubing run, and much more.
  • Stiergarten: for hiking and exploring … put on your hiking shoes or climb onto your bike – at Stiergarten we are off into the open! Highlights: the Sextner alpine meadow hike, the Karnische Höhenweg, Giro Enduro Bike Tour and much more.
  • Helm: for photographers … just don't forget your camera when you are on the way to the Helm mountain, because such a view deserves to be immortalised! Highlights: Oplerls mountain world, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets and much more.
  • Rotwand: for fans of reindeer … we admit it is not the only attraction on Rotwand, but it is the sweetest: the only reindeer herd in the Alps is looking forward to your visit! Highlights: the surroundings are seeped in history, with stations from World War I, via ferrata and much more.
  • Col d’la Tenda (Dolomiti del Comelico): for sports lovers … in nearby Belluno, the hiking trails on the mountain tempt you with adrenaline, enjoyment and challenging hikes. Highlights: a wide selection of hikes for all levels of difficulty, two challenging single trails and much more.

5 absolute classic attractions: off into nature!

  • The Three Peaks: UNESCO World Heritage Site Observe them from afar, watch them from the sky, hike to them, walk around them, climb up them – the Three Peaks can be admired from different perspectives. Which one will be your favourite?
  • The Three Peaks View: peaking through the keyhole For those who first only want to have a brief look of the imposing trio, they can do that about 7 km from Toblach in Höhlensteintal in Landro. A wood platform shows you which way to look and a free telescope is available. On a clear day you can see the north faces of the Three Peaks also with the naked eye.
  • Fischleintal: picture-postcard views in Sexten It is only 4.5 km long, but every metre is decked out with scenic beauty. You simply can't get enough of the panoramic view all around you, therefore you might need a little bit longer to get back.
  • Plätzwiese: so close to the sky The high pasture in the Fanes Sennes Prags Natural Park is at an altitude of 2,000 m and provides beautiful views. The high pasture does not only tempt you to go for a hike, but also mountain biking. If you hike to Dürrenstein or Strudelköpfen, on a clear day you can admire the imposing Three Peaks.
  • Lake Braies: the most famous lake in the Alps It is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites and is an eye-catcher in every season. We recommend going to Lake Braies during off-peak periods so that you can admire this corner of the earth in peace and quiet.

DO YOU WANT TO DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN LAKES IN PUSTERTAL?

Imagine you are standing by a crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by the beauty of the Dolomites. Our list takes you to the most beautiful lakes, the ideal photo spots and provides valuable tips for nature lovers and adventurers.

  • Lake Braies - the jewel among the mountain lakes Lake Braies is naturally at the top of our list. With a lake surface area of 31 hectares, it is one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the Dolomites. The water is actually crystal clear, but lime particles get into the lake and as soon as the sun shines into the water at the right angle, these particles reflect the rays and turn it into the familiar turquoise-green colour. Small pebble beaches invite you to linger and take a refreshing dip. However, you should not be sensitive to the cold. Due to the altitude of around 1500 metres above sea level, the water temperature is around 15°C. The lake is also accessible in winter and offers a very special challenge for the hardy, namely ice bathing.
  • 2-lake view hike: to Lake Antholz and Lake Obernsee Two lakes, two valleys and even two countries can be explored on this varied and scenically beautiful hike. The Staller Sattel connects the Antholz Valley in Italy with the Defereggen Valley in East Tyrol. The leisurely hike starts at the Staller Sattel and leads from there (the same way there and back) to a wonderful vantage point with views of the two lakes and the 3,000 metre peaks of the Rieserferner Group. A longer variant is possible from the biathlon centre in Antholz.
  • Lake Toblach and the picturesque Lake Dürrensee Created by a rockslide, Lake Dobbiaco is picturesquely nestled between the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park and the Tre Cime Nature Park. The Dobbiaco Lake nature trail meanders along the shoreline and various information boards provide information about the flora and fauna.
  • Lake Sorapis - the jewel among the Dolomite lakes The intense turquoise-blue colour is unique. The lake owes its colour to the dust deposited on the bottom by the melting glacier. The beautiful lake can be reached via a scenic route from the Tre Croci Pass.

Hiking Infos:

Lots and lots! A special feature of the Hirben is that you don’t need a car to go hiking – the great outdoors begins right on the doorstep. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll along the River Rienza, a challenging hike to the Putzalm hut or an ambitious day trip up to the Monte Serla, the Upper Puster Valley has an ideal route for everyone.

There are not only stunning viewpoints and Alpine pastures that can be reached on foot from the Hirben: the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, the Plätzwiese high plateau and Lake Braies are all accessible by train and bus. We will be pleased to tell you our favourite tips for tours – according to the weather, your fitness level and your thirst for adventure.

The Dolomites are a real experience for young and old alike – and there are numerous family-friendly hiking trails around the Hirben. The walk to Lake Dobbiaco is particularly popular, as is a hike in the footsteps of Haunold the Giant, or the numerous adventure hikes for children that offer magnificent views.

All routes are easy to reach, not too long and with nature all around: there are wooden walkways, streambeds, viewpoints and little surprises along the way. On request, we can provide you with suggestions for child-friendly routes and top tips for huts that serve “Kaiserschmarrn” (sweet shredded pancakes) or have playgrounds.

Most tours around the Hirben simply require comfortable hiking boots with a good grip, a small rucksack and weatherproof clothing. If you want to go higher – e.g. to mountain pastures above the tree line, or you are out and about early in the year – you should also consider trekking poles, waterproofs and, if necessary in winter, spikes for your boots.

If required, trekking poles, rucksacks, carrier rucksacks, spikes and snowshoes are all available from our reception.

We will be happy to offer tips on packing, organise equipment hire or tell you exactly how challenging each tour is. Safe and relaxed – that’s how hiking should be.

The famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo and Lake Braies can easily be reached from the Hirben by car, bus or bike. The train station too is just a five-minute walk away, with trains running to Dobbiaco and connections to the shuttles serving the Three Peaks. The bus to Lake Braies also stops nearby.

Some access restrictions apply during the high season – we can tell you exactly which connections are best. But there are also many lesser-known, quieter alternatives that are just as impressive in terms of scenery.

The hiking season in the Upper Puster Valley runs from May to October, depending on the snow conditions. The early summer (when everything is in bloom) and the golden autumn, when the larch trees glow brightly and the air is clear and fresh, are especially atmospheric.

For a calmer mood, go walking in September, when the holiday season is over. Many of the huts are still open, the trails are pleasantly quiet and the light is particularly beautiful.

discover the most beautiful places in the Dolomites on guided hikes, all accompanied by an experienced hiking guide. Off the beaten track you will discover hidden natural treasures, learn fascinating facts about the flora, fauna and history of the region - and walk in complete safely. Ideal for exploring the mountains in an intensive, authentic and sociable way.

we can provide you with all you need for your hiking adventures, with trekking poles, rucksacks and maps available to borrow free of charge from the hotel. Start your day out in the mountains well prepared - without bringing any heavy luggage from home. Simply ask at reception - and set off!

whether you prefer a well-known destination or a real insider tip, just ask at reception and together we'll find the perfect tour for you. There are also information brochures and hiking maps available for free. And, if you prefer to travel in digital format, as a premium partner of Komoot we have put together a large selection of tours for you - to walk, discover and enjoy.

Why choose the Hirben? This is what sets us apart:

25-metre pool, heated all year round

Five saunas, quiet rooms and lawn for relaxing, fitness and yoga room

Unbeatable location in the Dolomites, plus a fabulous activity programme

Regional cuisine for breakfast, snacks, and dinner

Recognised sustainable approach