The best hikes from bus stations in Italy

Embark on the Panorama tour around Puflatsch, a moderate hike spanning 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1038 feet (316 metres), typically taking 2 hours and 42 minutes. This route guides you across wide alpine meadows and gentle hills, offering a constant 360-degree panorama of the Dolomites, including views of Val Gardena and the Schlern. You will encounter a mix of gravel, natural paths, and some paved sections, passing charming small wooden houses and, in summer, an abundance of wildflowers.

To begin your hike, head to Compatsch, the usual starting point for the Panorama tour. Keep in mind that private vehicle access to the plateau is restricted during certain hours, so you can reach Compatsch by the Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway or by bus. While there can be an initial steep ascent from Compatsch, you have the option to take the Telemix Puflatsch lift to bypass this section, making the rest of the trail relatively flat with occasional small climbs and descents.

This trail is celebrated for its unique features, including the mystical Witches' Benches (Hexenbänke), stone formations steeped in local folklore. You will also find the Engelsrast (Angel's Rest) viewing platform and Filln Cross, both offering outstanding vistas of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you can stop at mountain huts like Tschötsch Alm or Arnika Hut for refreshments and to enjoy traditional Tyrolean cuisine amidst the stunning scenery.

The Langkofel Circuit is a difficult 7.0-mile (11.3 km) hike that takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes to complete, gaining 2481 feet (756 metres) in elevation. This iconic loop trail circles the imposing Sassolungo mountain group in the Dolomites, offering constantly changing vistas. You will traverse tussock slopes, rocky areas, and gravel paths, passing through sections of thinning forest. A notable feature is the "City of Stone," a vast expanse of boulders at the foot of Sassolungo, where the path navigates boulder fields and rock overhangs. Expect panoramic views of surrounding peaks like the Denti di Terrarossa and the Sella Group, with lush green meadows contrasting with near-vertical rocky peaks.

Good fitness and sure-footedness are required for this route, and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. The trail is typically hiked clockwise, often starting from Passo Sella. While generally accessible, some parts can involve technical terrain. In spring or late autumn, be aware that snow and ice can make certain sections, especially descents, tricky. You can opt to use a cable car from Passo Sella to bypass the initial steep ascent to Forcella del Sassolungo. The route is particularly stunning in June, mid-late September, and October, though it can get busy during peak season in July and August.

This circuit offers a full-day adventure around the entire Sassolungo Group, including prominent peaks like Sassolungo (3181 m) and Sasso Piatto (2958 m). The trail provides continually changing perspectives of these dramatic mountain faces. Along the way, you will find several mountain huts, such as Rifugio Friedrich August and Rifugio Sasso Piatto. These huts offer opportunities for rest, refreshments, and a chance to sample local Ladin and South Tyrolean cuisine, making the long hike more manageable and enjoyable.

Embark on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop Trail, a moderate hike that delivers continuous panoramic views of the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo from every angle. You will witness their famous northern walls and other towering peaks like Monte Paterno and the jagged formations of Cadini di Misurina. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route involves an elevation gain of 738 feet (225 metres), making it a rewarding challenge. Expect to complete the circuit in about 2 hours and 25 minutes, immersing yourself in the dramatic Dolomite landscape.

The most common starting point for this loop is Rifugio Auronzo, offering convenient access to the trail. While the path primarily consists of well-maintained sections and gravel roads, you should remain attentive. Be aware that the route near Forcella del Col di Mezzo narrows significantly, with a cliff on one side. This section requires careful footing and awareness of your surroundings.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty, the trail also offers a glimpse into history. As you hike, you might encounter remnants from World War I, adding a poignant layer to the already dramatic scenery. These historical elements provide a unique context to the rugged mountain environment, making the experience more profound than just a scenic walk.