Walking in Selva

Walking Trails:
600km of walking trails

Terrain:
Varied terrain from mountain climbs to flat, grassy meadows

Selva at a glance

  • Italian
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Travel included to Selva

Depart on: Saturday or Wednesday

Fly into: Verona or Innsbruck (approx. 2 hours)

Transfer time: approx. 3 hours by coach from Verona or approx. 2 hours by coach from Innsbruck

Included in your walking holiday to Selva

  • Inghams Guided Walks included from 9 Jun-26 Sep 25 and 8 Jun-25 Sep 26 (subject to availability)
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Selva
  • Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation
  • Free Digital Guest Pass with free use of Val Gardena & Alto Adige public buses
  • Val Gardena Active Programme- offering a programme of activities and guided walks in the Val Gardena (discounts available only when staying at affiliated hotels)

Walking in Selva

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
600km of walking trails
Terrain:
Varied terrain from mountain climbs to flat, grassy meadows

Selva is a perfect base for walking holidays in the Dolomites, with countless trails and breath-taking views. One popular route is the Seceda Ridgeway, a six-mile trail that takes you from the village centre to the top of Seceda mountain. This scenic path winds through lush meadows, dense forests, and rocky landscapes, all with unforgettable panoramic views. For those seeking more variety, the Puez-Odle Nature Park offers routes for all levels, from easy-going walks to more challenging hikes, each showcasing the breath-taking beauty of the Dolomites. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, walking holidays in Selva provide the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and incredible scenery.

We’ve included two full-day walks per week in Selva, just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks will run every Monday and Friday from 09 Jun-26 Sep 25 and 08 Jun-25 Sep 26. You can them onto your holiday at the time of booking, through Manage My Booking or by calling us.

Routes may vary from week to week but as a guide you can see some of our planned routes below.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details.

Our guided walks in Selva

This circular walk takes you from the meeting point at the church square in Selva all the way to Monte Pana. On the walk you can hike up Mont Sëura to make the walk challenging but you'll have the option to take a chairlift up if you prefer. If you choose to walk up, it's a bit of a climb, but you'll be rewarded with fantastic views at the top. To end the walk you'll head over to Pozzamanigoni and then back to Selva.

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: approx. 13.5km
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 4-5 hours)
  • Ascent/descent: 543m
  • Terrain: A variety including gravelly paths and grassy terrain with some ascents and descents
  • Useful information: You'll stop at one of the mountain refugi where you can pay for lunch locally and there will be a few more huts along the walk if you need a break. There's a chairlift from Selva to Monte Pana (optional and payable locally, approx. €15 per person). There will be the opportunity to shorten or lengthen the walk, depending on the group.

For summer 2025, this walk will run on the following Fridays: 13 Jun, 27 Jun, 11 Jul, 25 Jul, 8 Aug, 22 Aug, 5 Sep, 19 Sep.
For summer 2026, this walk will run on the followingFridays: 12 Jun, 26 Jun, 10 Jul, 24 Jul, 7 Aug, 21 Aug, 4 Sep, 18 Sep

Starting at the church square you'll head up on the famous Ciampinoi cable car (payable locally) and begin the walk through the Cittá dei Sassi (rock city). The walk will pass along the Passo Sella to Plan de Gralba and is part of the very popular Sassolungo route. If you'd like to, you'll have the option to hop on the unique Sassolungo gondola to the Sassolungo-Forcella and visit a popular mountain hut for a spot of lunch. This is an amazing place surrounded by a rocky landscape. On the way back you can either take the bus back to Selva from the Passo Sella or Plan de Gralba or you can walk back to Selva.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate (a decent fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 7.4km-11.9km
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 4 hours)
  • Ascent/descent: 170m (ascent) & 875m (descent)
  • Terrain: A variety including well-kept mountain paths, hilly terrain and rocky paths with some ascents and descents (there may be some loose terrain)
  • Useful information: You'll stop at one of the mountain huts along the way where you can pay for lunch locally. There are a few huts on the route where you can stop for breaks if needed. During the walk you'll take the Ciampinoi cable car (payable locally, approx. €18 one way, per person). You'll also have the option to take the Sassolungo cable car (payable locally, approx. €28 per person return). There will be the opportunity to shorten or lengthen the walk, depending on the group.

For summer 25, this walk will run on the following Mondays: 16 Jun, 30 Jun, 14 Jul, 28 Jul, 11 Aug, 25 Aug, 8 Sep, 22 Sep.
For summer 26, this walk will run on the following Mondays: 15 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jul, 27 Jul, 10 Aug, 24 Aug, 7 Sep, 21 Sep.

This walk takes you through the stunning Puez Odle Natural Park which is a protected area. During the walk you'll also have the option to take the ascent up to the Mastlé-Santa Cristina Panoramic Balcony which is part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ascent is quite steep, however, it'll all be worth it when you see the breath-taking views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks and Val Gardena. From the balcony you'll also be able to see the Pieralongia - a famous natural rock needle jutting out of the ground. On the return you'll stop in a popular rifugio for a bite of local mountain food or a refreshing drink.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate (a good fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 8-12km (depends on optional extension; returning to Selva on foot for the last leg of the walk, instead of taking the Col Raiser Cable Car)
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 5 hours 30 minutes)
  • Ascent/descent: 400m
  • Terrain: A variety including loose gravel paths, rocky paths, meadows and curated mountain paths with some ascents and descents (there may be some loose terrain)
  • Useful information: You'll stop at one of the mountain huts along the way where you can pay for lunch locally. There are a few huts on the route where you can stop for breaks if needed. During the walk you'll take the Col Raiser cable car (payable locally, approx. €19 one way and €28 per person, return). You'll take a public bus back to Selva at the end of the walk (free with the Val Gardena Mobil Card). There will be the opportunity to shorten or lengthen the walk, depending on the group.

For summer 2025, this walk will run on the following Mondays: 9 Jun, 23 Jun, 7 Jul, 21 Jul, 4 Aug, 18 Aug, 1 Sep, 15 Sep.
For summer 2026, this walk will run on the following Mondays: 8 Jun, 22 Jun, 6 Jul, 20 Jul, 3 Aug, 17 Aug, 30 Aug, 14 Sep.

This circular walk is a chance to explore the largest and highest Alpine pasture in Europe, the Seiser Alm where you'll enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You'll start in Ortisei and take the cable car up to the Alpe di Siusi. You'll then walk in the direction of the hamlet of Kompatsch and a mountain hut where you can have a drink and some delicious local food (payable locally), before heading back to finish the walk.

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging (a good fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
  • Distance: 10-14km
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 5-6 hours)
    Ascent/Descent: 590m (descent)
  • Terrain: Rocky paths, loose gravel, meadows, curated mountain paths, walking paths, ascents and descents
  • Useful information: During the walk you'll take the Seiser Alm gondola (payable locally, approx. €28 per person, return. You'll stop at the Tirler hut for some lunch along the way (payable locally) or you'll have the option to have a packed lunch outside in the open air. There will be the opportunity to shorten or lengthen the walk, depending on the group.

For summer 2025, this walk will run on the following Fridays: 20 Jun, 4 Jul, 18 Jul, 1 Aug, 15 Aug, 29 Aug, 12 Sep, 26 Sep.
For summer 2026, this walk will run on the following Fridays: 19 Jun, 3 Jul, 17 Jul, 31 Jul, 14 Aug, 28 Aug, 11 Sep, 25 Sep.

Our favourite self-guided walks in Selva

The Val Gardena Railway Trail is a pleasant path which leads you on a 3.5km walk from Santa Cristina to Ortisei. This comfortable walk features panoramic views and several information boards with historical pictures explaining the fascinating history of the Val Gardena Railway.

  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 3.5km
  • Walking time: 1 hour

You'll feel on top of the world at the summit of Pic Mountain, where you'll get 360 degree views of the valley below. Take the cable car from Santa Cristina and hike along to Sëurasas, one of the most scenic look outs in Val Gardena, and the summit of Mount Pic for uninterrupted, 360 degree views of the the Dolomite mountain ranges.

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging
  • Distance: 6.5km
  • Walking time: 2 hours

The Vallunga Valley is the entrance to the Puez-Odle nature park, and it offers a fairly relaxed walk through wooded areas and wide open meadows, cradled within the towering Dolomites mountains. It’s a picturesque route and, though it requires some effort, it’s perfect for exploring the area when you want a less challenging walking day.

  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 7.5km
  • Walking time: 2 hours

Discover Selva

  • Explore hundreds of kilometres of walking trails, winding through jagged peaks and picturesque valleys
  • Savour local food and drink at traditional mountain rifugi, offering a taste of authentic Dolomite cuisine
  • Enjoy two guided walks per week with Inghams holidays to Selva, perfect for exploring the stunning surroundings

Selva's the ideal destination for a summer holiday, where outdoor adventure meets breath-taking Dolomite beauty. With over 900 kilometres of trails, you can explore everything from easy village strolls to challenging mountain hikes. The iconic peaks of the Dolomites, glowing in hues of pink at sunrise and sunset, offer a stunning backdrop for every adventure. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this region is home to national parks, nature reserves, and countless walking paths.

Selva is one of three villages in the famous Val Gardena in the Dolomites. These mountains are like no other, not only in geological structure but in their unique beauty. The Dolomites are simply out of this world, with distinctive jagged tooth-like peaks that glow pink at dawn and dusk - a phenomenon called ‘enrosadira’. They’re so special that much of the mountain range is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire area is a network of national parks, nature reserves, and endless walking opportunities with festivals, concerts, fairs and sporting events taking place throughout summer - there's plenty on offer for the whole family.

Family holidays in Selva offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for all ages. With the Val Gardena Active programme, families can enjoy a range of fun and free activities. Explore family-friendly hiking trails, discover adventure playgrounds, or spot local wildlife together. Teenagers will love the adrenaline-packed activities, from zip-lining and mountain biking to mini-golf and hiking. Whether you're looking for outdoor thrills or relaxing moments, family holidays in Selva provide something for everyone. Check out our 'Things to do' section for more details on family-friendly activities.

Selva's a village steeped in a rich culture and history. The architecture reflects the area’s Tyrolean heritage, with traditional wooden buildings that have been part of the landscape for centuries. Selva’s local customs are preserved in its festivals and events, offering visitors a chance to experience the vibrant traditions of the Dolomites. Explore the fascinating history of the region with a visit to the Val Gardena Museum or enjoy a meal at a mountain rifugio, where local dishes made from age-old recipes offer a true taste of the Dolomites.

Lifts

There are 18 lifts open in Val Gardena during the summer, normally from the beginning of June until early October. If you're planning to make good use of the lifts in the Val Gardena the Digital Guest Pass is really useful and may even save you some money or if you want to explore further afield then the Dolomiti Supersummer pass gives you access to 120 lifts in 15 regions.

Public transport

For Inghams guests the public buses in the Val Gardena are free. All you have to do is take you Val Gardena Mobil Card with you and you'll easily be able to hop from town to town within the area. This opens up even more areas for you to explore!

Getting Around with a Guest Pass or Lift Card

Stay at any of our hotels in Val Gardena and you’ll receive a free Digital Guest Pass, giving you unlimited access to public transport across South Tyrol. It’s a convenient digital card, sent directly to your email when you check in, just make sure to provide a valid address. For full details on what’s included, check the official website.

If you’re planning to explore the mountains by lift, consider the Gardena Card. With round trips starting from around €24, the Gardena Card offers excellent value for unlimited lift access: €103 for three consecutive days or €135 for six.

Explore More with the Dolomiti Supersummer Card

The Dolomiti Supersummer Card is ideal for walkers and mountain explorers looking to make the most of the Dolomites' lift network. With access to 120 lifts across the region (including bike transport) it’s perfect for a flexible itinerary. You can buy your pass in resort with the help of your Destination Expert.

Prices at the time of publishing: 3-day card: €120 per adult / €84 for children under 16, 5-day card: €160 per adult / €112 for children under 16, Children under 8 go free when accompanied by a paying adult

For the latest prices and more information, visit the Dolomiti Supersummer official website.

Travel to Selva

Travel by air

Holidays to Selva depart on Saturday or Wednesday between 07 Jun - 27 Sep 25 and 06 Jun - 30 Sep 26

Transfer time:

  • Verona airport: approx. 3 hours by coach
  • Innsbruck airport: approx. 2 hours by coach

Please be aware transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Things to do in Selva

Get involved with as many activities as you want with the Val Gardena active programme. They include guided walks, Nordic walking tasters, food & wine experiences, climbing, biking and lots more. Activities are either free or discounted when you stay at affiliated hotels.

Affiliated hotels include: Hotel Rodella, Hotel Aaritz, Hotel Mignon, Hotel Somont, Hotel Stella, Hotel Miravalle

If you want an adventure- why not try out Via Ferrata on your holiday? The area has a variety difficulty levels available. If this is something you're interested in, we'd recommend booking a guide as they will take you on a Via Ferrata suited to your level.

Selva's and Ortisei are a paradise for bikers with a huge network of trails to suit all levels. E-biking has become increasingly popular, offering a fun and accessible way to explore the stunning Dolomite landscapes. Ride through lush meadows, navigate forest paths, or conquer mountain roads that wind through the valleys. Why not head for the freeride trails or stick with the gentle winding routes on the family line- both are fun. Best of all the lifts take you to the top of the runs, so all you need to do is enjoy the ride down.

If you fancy trying out e-biking, tackle the hills and cruise along valley paths with the help of an electric motor, giving you the time to take in the mountain views. It doesn’t get much better than an e-bike tour of mountain huts, or 'rifugi' as they call them. This is also a great way of combining outdoor adventure with local food and wine.

With plenty of routes for all abilities, from leisurely cycles to more challenging terrain, cycling in Selva and Ortisei is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Image copyright: @DolomitesValGardena

If your staying in Selva, make sure to head to the pretty villages of Santa Cristina and Ortisei, which are linked by the fascinating Val Gardena railway trail. Both villages are soaked in tradition with local markets, pretty churches and boutique shops; there are even craft breweries to explore. Not to mention the spectacular mountain panoramas.

Image copyright: @valgardena.it

There are plenty of family friendly walks in Selva. These walks will have easier and mild gradients available, with wide trails where children will have plenty of space to play and explore. Many walks will also have refreshment stops to sit back and relax at one of the mountain huts or to enjoy a picnic in the fresh mountain air. Some of the resort favourite family friendly walks are The Ledgent Trail, Walk through the Val D’Anna and Hike to Brogles Hut.

Each summer from June to September, Val Gardena offers an action packed programme of activities for children aged 6 to 12 years old. There is so much fun to be had for all young explorers, ready for their next adventure. Kids Active & Junior Active runs for five days per week and offers a vast range of activities. Spend the week hiking through the forest with the nature park guide learning all about the inhabitants that live there. Fancy something creative, learn how natural materials can be used to create surprising things or turn your hands to clay. There is so much more fun on offer too!

There's no shortage of mountain fun in Selva. With over five adventure playgrounds to choose from with an endless amount of fun equipment for children to play on. Take to the 10 metre long slide at the Pranives Children’s Playground, or take a pit stop at the Val D’Anna Playground set amongst a walking path where children can burn their energy on the playhouse and climbing equipment whilst taking in those glorious mountain views.

If you fancy an adventure with some height, then head to the Col de Flam Adventure Park with a roof top rope adventures for children of all ages. The Mar Dolomit is also an activity not to be missed, offering an outdoor pool, and 4 indoors pools which include a children’s and baby pool too – plus there is a children’s slide too!

Popular Insider Guides

FAQs and Travel Advice

Selva FAQs and travel information

Top walking routes near Selva include the Panascharte to Seceda, an easy to moderate 8km hike offering spectacular views of the Odle peaks from the summit of Seceda, accessible via cable car from Ortisei. Another great choice is the 7km hike up Pic Mountain for 360-degree views of Val Gardena, starting from San Cristina. For a more challenging experience, the 17km trek around the Sassolungo group begins at the Ciampinoi lift, featuring breathtaking landscapes and views over Seiser Alm.

To explore the forests and peaks around Selva, consider joining guided walks through the Val Gardena Active Programme, available for booking at the local tourist office. Affiliated hotels offer discounts with this programme, including Hotel Miravalle, Hotel Rodella, Hotel Aaritz, Hotel Mignon, Hotel Somont and Hotel Stella. Additionally, we provide two guided walks per week with a local professional guide, which are included in your holiday and need to be pre-booked. Read our Guided Walks guide to find out more.

You can find information on scenic trails and Alpine walks near Selva by downloading the Val Gardena Outdoor app, available for free on Google Play or the App Store. This app offers a variety of walking routes to get you started. If you prefer paper maps, Kompass 59 and Kompass 76 are highly recommended for detailed guidance on the area's trails.

While hiking in Selva, don't miss the Seceda Ridgeway, a 6-mile trail from the village centre to the summit of Seceda mountain, featuring lush meadows, dense forests, and rocky terrain. Selva is rich in Ladin culture and history, offering unique customs, traditions, and cuisine. The area's strategic importance during World War I is highlighted by historical sites including battlefronts, caves, and tunnels from the conflict, all accessible to visitors wanting to combine scenic views with historical exploration.

Yes, guided hiking excursions are available to explore Selva and its surroundings. We offer full-day guided walks every Monday and Friday, which are included with your holiday. These guided tours provide a fantastic opportunity to learn about the area's rich natural and cultural heritage while enjoying the beautiful landscapes. Additionally, our in-resort reps can also provide more information on recommended walking routes and tips for getting the most out of your holiday.

Here are some of the top resorts that families love, offering everything from gentle adventures for little ones to high-energy activities for teens.

Get double the Alpine fun in Davos and Klosters, Switzerland, with easy connections between the two resorts. Families with young children will love the pram-friendly hikes, mountain playgrounds, and the scenic Bernina Express train, while older kids can enjoy the adventure park, toboggan run, pump tracks, scootering, mini-golf, and a brilliant aquatic centre with a waterslide.

Perfect for active families, Morzine in France offers mini-golf, scenic walks, and exciting climbing parks. The Morzine Multipass gives you discounts on local attractions and includes free travel on select local routes – great value for exploring with the kids.

Saalbach Hinterglemm, Austria, is packed with family-friendly adventure, including wildlife trails, high-ropes courses, playgrounds, mini-golf, a thrilling jump park, and treetop walks. The included Joker Card gives access to free lifts and popular attractions, making it easy to explore more for less.

In Mayrhofen, Austria, families can enjoy a mix of mountain exploration, bike paths, and easy walks, with thrill-seekers taking on high rope courses or cooling off at the adventure pool with its slides, plus a summer toboggan run for extra fun.

Set beside Lake Garda, Bardolino, Italy, is bursting with excitement – from waterparks and theme parks to the adrenaline-filled Movieland. Nature lovers can escape to La Rocca to camp under the stars, hike, or try paddleboarding and canoeing.

Ideal for families who love the outdoors, Selva, Italy, offers adventure playgrounds, wildlife spotting, and plenty of high-energy fun, with teens especially enjoying zip lining, hiking, mini-golf, mountain biking, and cycling through the stunning Dolomite landscapes.

More resorts in The Dolomites