Highlight • Lake
Hiking
4.9
(557)
Alpine skiing
5.0
(6)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parch Natural Pöz-Odles - Naturpark Puez-Geisler - Parco Naturale Puez-Odle
Tips
December 5, 2017
Hiking
December 22, 2021
Ski touring
September 1, 2021
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lake Crespëina

4.9
(322)
1,945
hikers
19.1km
07:51
1,120m
1,120m
Embark on a difficult 11.8-mile (19.1 km) loop tour from Val Gardena, offering a diverse hiking experience between the Sella Group and Vallunga. This route involves a significant 3659 feet (1115 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 7 hours and 50 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, starting in meadows before ascending through thick spruce and larch forests, eventually reaching more barren, rocky landscapes. As you climb, enjoy panoramic views of the jagged Cir mountains and the Puez-Odle Group, passing by the serene Crespëina Lake and the unique karst Crespëina plateau, sometimes described as a moonscape.
This loop is a full-day commitment, but if you prefer a less strenuous outing, the Vallunga section offers easier, family-friendly walks. These shorter excursions have more moderate slopes and are ideal for picnics, with opportunities to spot wildlife. The full route ascends into high-alpine landscapes within the Puez-Odle Nature Park, providing a refreshing break from more crowded areas of the Dolomites. You can also plan a stop at Rifugio Puez, a popular mountain hut along the way.
The Trekking from Valgardena loop is notable for exploring the often-overlooked Val de Chedul and Vallunga valleys, which tend to be blissfully quiet. Vallunga is recognized as a natural paradise, especially appealing to families due to its carved wooden animal figures along the path and numerous picnic opportunities. Keep an eye out for chamois, roe deer, sheep, and even eagles in these quieter areas, adding to the unique charm of this challenging yet rewarding Dolomite adventure.

4.9
(214)
971
hikers
13.3km
05:24
670m
680m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

4.9
(125)
786
hikers
16.3km
07:10
1,050m
1,050m
Embark on the challenging "Trekking tra Vallunga e Val Chedul – giro ad anello," a difficult 10.1-mile (16.3 km) loop in the Puez-Odle Nature Park. This hike involves a significant 3430 feet (1045 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 7 hours and 9 minutes to complete. You will begin with a gentle walk through the wide Vallunga valley before ascending steeply through thick forests. As you climb, the terrain shifts to rocky landscapes and boulder fields, eventually leading to the unique "lunar" appearance of the Crespëina High Plateau. The crystalline Lake Crespeina offers a perfect spot for a break, reflecting the surrounding peaks. This route promises diverse scenery, from lush forests to barren alpine expanses, with stunning panoramic views of the Dolomites. You will need sturdy hiking shoes and sure-footedness for the varied terrain. The trail is predominantly alpine, with unpaved and gravel sections. The starting point for this loop is typically the Vallunga car park in Selva di Val Gardena. You can also visit the charming St. Silvester chapel near the trailhead before you begin your adventure. This trek is suitable for all seasons, but autumn is particularly recommended for its vibrant larch colors. This loop offers a unique opportunity to explore two less-traveled valleys, Vallunga and Val de Chedul, providing a sense of solitude, especially in Val de Chedul. You will pass through the Forcella Crespëina, a mountain pass at 2527 metres, and can find refreshment at the Rifugio Puez mountain hut. The trek provides breathtaking views of prominent peaks like the Cir Group, the Chedul mountains, the Puez Group, the Stevia rockface, the Alpe di Siusi, and the Sciliar/Schlern massif.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,400 m
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Tuesday 12 May
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-7°C
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Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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