Alpe di Siusi ~ Edelweiss Loop

We LOVE cycling in the Dolomites! Our favourite location in northern Italy is the Val Gardena and the Alpe di Siusi, the largest alpine meadow in Europe. The plateau is also known as the Seiser Alm in German and Mont Sëuc in Ladin. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its breathtaking scenery and iconic Dolomite peaks.

Why do Towns in the Dolomites Have Three Names?

Towns in the Dolomites have names in Italian, German, and Ladin due to the region’s cultural history—once part of Austria-Hungary before becoming part of Italy after World War I—and the presence of the Ladin people, an indigenous group who have preserved their own distinct language and traditions.

Link to RideWithGPS Map & Tracks

Why You’ll Love This Ride

Alpine Meadows & Wildflowers – Rolling landscapes blanketed in colorful summer blooms, including the famous Edelweiss.
Panoramic Views – Sweeping vistas of the Sassolungo, Schlern, and Sella mountain groups.
Mountain Huts – Stop at the Edelweiss Hütte, a traditional rifugio for South Tyrolean specialties like speck, cheese, and apple strudel. I call this ride the Edelweiss Loop as we always stop here for lunch!
Gentle, Scenic Trails – A mix of packed gravel and dirt paths makes this route enjoyable for mountain bikes, gravel bikes and e-bikes, allowing you to explore more of the plateau with ease.

Where to Stay: Ortisei – St.Ulrich is our favorite base for exploring the area. With three gondolas from the valley leading to different regions, it’s easy to access to great hiking and biking routes. We’ve ridden or walked most of the trails in the Alpe di Siusi, and it never gets old!

Bike Rentals & Tours: MTB School Ortisei rents bikes and offers guided tours. They’re conveniently located at the bottom of the gondola:

How to get there: Take the Mont Seuc-Alpe di Siusi gondola. As you step out of the gondola, you’ll be greeted by Sassolungo (3,181 m)—the iconic peak of Val Gardena and one of the most recognizable mountains in South Tyrol.

The Alpe di Siusi – Edelweiss Loop is an easy ride that captures the magic of the Dolomites. Whether you take it slow to soak in the views or push the pace for a fun workout, this loop is sure to be a highlight of any cycling trip in the Dolomites.