This classic stage leads to the symbol of Val Gardena: the legendary Sassolungo massif, visible from all three villages of the valley. Beneath the towering 1,000-metre-high northeast wall of Sassolungo, the route first crosses the fascinating Stone City, a vast labyrinth of boulders and rock formations at the foot of the massif resembling a petrified landscape.
From the Sella Pass, the panoramic Friedrich August Trail follows the southern side of the Sassolungo group, with gentle elevation changes and magnificent views of Marmolada, the Queen of the Dolomites, and the Catinaccio massif. From the Sassopiatto hut, the trail continues through alpine meadows and rocky terrain towards Forcella del Sassolungo.
Alternative:
Hikers can instead choose to cross the spectacular rock cathedral of Forcella del Sassolungo using the iconic coffin lift - Furcela de Saslonch. From there, the descent follows partly secured mountain trails to the Sassolungo Hut.
The Ciampinoi gondola takes you to the Ciampinoi mountain station 2254 m with ease. From there, trails 21, 21A and 526 lead to Comici Hut – approx. 45 min. From Comici Hut, trails 526 and 526C continue through the remarkable Stone City, a unique rocky landscape at the foot of Sassolungo, towards the Sella Pass – approx. 1 h. From the Sella Pass, the route passes the Friedrich August hut and Sandro Pertini hut along the panoramic Friedrich August Trail 557 to the Sassopiatto hut. Here, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views over Seiser Alm, the largest high-alpine pasture in Europe. The return route follows trails 527, 526 and 526B back to Mont de Sëura/Monte Pana/S.Cristina, followed by a bus transfer to Selva or Ortisei. Walking time from Sella Pass: approx. 4 h
Alternatively, from the Sella Pass, the traditional -Furcela de Saslonch- cable car takes hikers up into the Forcella del Sassolungo. From there, the partly secured trail descends to the Sassolungo Hut and continues along trails 525, 526 and 526B back to Mont de Sëura/Monte Pana. Afterwards, return by bus to Selva di Val Gardena or Ortisei. Walking time from Sella Pass: approx. 3 h
Good hiking shoes and a drink