Day trip destination
Alpine pasture Plätzwiese: a paradise in green
The high plateau of Plätzwiese, one of the prettiest hiking areas in South Tyrol, is part of Pragsertal valley.
Right after entering Pragsertal valley, it forks into two side valleys. Both have highlights in store once you reach the end: one can boast Pragser Wildsee lake, while the other boasts the Plätzwiese plateau in Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. Once the snow has melted, the meadows of this elevated spot set at 2,000 metres above sea level put on a show of colour. From here, between the Dürrenstein and the 3,000-metre-high Hohe Gaisl peak, some of the most famous mountains of the Dolomites come into view: Monte Cristallo, the 'Drei Zinnen' peaks, the Tofana and Marmolata mountains. This is a great place for switching off from your daily routine, especially in the cosy huts found on the mountain pastures serving culinary treats from the Upper Pustertal valley.
Summer and winter too
In summer, this high plateau makes the ideal place to go Nordic Walking, set off on a mountain bike tour or on a hike. In winter, you can also get about on touring skis or wearing snow shoes. Plätzwiese is particularly popular with keen cross-country skiers, who really appreciate the seven kilometres of varied circuit trails. International athletes train here too, but the terrain is also suitable for beginners.
Atop Strudelkopf mountain
Plätzwiese plateau is a real treasure trove for nature-lovers and keen mountain hikers. There are lots of high Alpine tours starting from here and you can explore the Dolomites in all their splendour on easy family walks, too. Anyone wishing to admire the Drei Zinnen peaks from a new perspective should head for Strudelkopf mountain. First of all, you go up to the Dürrenstein refuge at 2,040 metres above sea level, and then carry on to Strudelkopf Sattel col at 2,200 metres. The path leads eastwards from the col to the Heimkehrer-Kreuz cross on the Strudelkopf mountain at 2,307 metres in altitude, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Prags Dolomites and the Drei Zinnen peaks in the neighbouring Sexten Dolomites. The way back is by the same route and the hike lasts around three hours. Doing this walk early in the morning, when the sun slowly comes up over the mountains and rises into the sky, is twice as spectacular.
Plätzwiese
Further information
Located at 2,000 metres above sea level, visitors find true serenity and pure nature in the area of Prato Piazza. Thanks to its integration into the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, the beautiful Prato Piazza area surrounded by imposing peaks, has been able to maintain its naturalness and originality. Far from car traffic and any noise, the alpine plateau fascinates with a splendid view of the surrounding mountains like Picco di Vallandro and Croda Rossa, and in the distance you can admire the Monte Cristallo and Tofane Mountains. Hobby photographers find the best of motives in summer and winter. You can sit down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the variety of nature, or actively discover the surrounding nature. Walking, Nordic walking, hiking, climbing or by bicycle.