Introducing Val Pusteria & the Sesto Dolomites
The Val Pusteria is bordered by the magnificent Parco Naturale di Fanes-Sennes-Braiesand by the Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti di Sesto, which includes some of the area’s most famous Dolomite peaks – among them the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
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The valley’s main centre, Brunico (Bruneck in German; population 13, 700, elevation 835m), is a surprisingly busy market town for what feels like such a wilderness-engulfed area. Plan de Corones, 4km south of Brunico, offers ample green and blue runs, making it ideal for beginners. The station is linked by cable car to Brunico. The Dolomiti Superski pass can be used here, and gear can be hired in Brunico and Plan de Corones. Brunico’s tourist office (0474 55 57 22; www.bruneck.com; Piazza Municipio 7; 9am-12.30pm & 3-6pm Mon-Fri, 9am-noon Sat) is the main point of contact for the region, and has detailed information on sleeping and eating options in the town and its surrounding villages and countryside. In the town centre, try Hotel Blitzburg (0474 55 57 23; www.blitzburg.it; Via Europa 10; d half board €90-148), an atmospheric old place offering big, bright rooms and a sauna.
Easy to reach from the Val Pusteria, Lago di Braies is a peaceful spot for a lakeside stroll. More serious walkers might like to tackle part of the Alta Via No 1, which starts here. Parco Naturale di Fanes-Sennes-Braies is more easily approached from the Val Badia or from Passo Falzarego.
At the other end of the valley, towards Austria, are the Sesto Dolomites, where there are some spectacular trails. The Valle Campo di Dentro, near San Candido, and the Val Fiscalina, near Sesto, are both crisscrossed with walking and cross-country skiing trails. From the Val Fiscalina it’s a long but easy walk along trail No 102 to Rifugio Locatelli (2405m), from where you will be able to get a great view of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Most trails around the Tre Cime are easy enough for inexperienced walkers and families, although they get very crowded in July and August with walkers on the tourist trail. Rafting and mountain biking are on tap in the warmer months.
Last updated: Mar 24, 2009
