Few mountain profiles are as instantly recognisable as that of the Sciliar (Schlern), the massif that closes the Alpe di Siusi to the south and single-handedly embodies the Dolomites' imagery. Its long wall rises to 2,564 metres, culminating in the twin summits — Punta Santner and Punta Euringer — that jut above the meadows like the prow of a ship. Nearby, the Denti di Terrarossa (Rosszähne) form a ridge of pinnacles that turn red in the fading light, just as their name suggests: in German Rosszähne means horse's teeth, on account of the pointed shape that recalls a row of dental cusps.
On the summit plateau, at 2,456 metres, stands the Rifugio Bolzano (Schlernhaus), one of the oldest mountain huts in the Dolomites — so solid and isolated that it has earned the nickname the castle among the crags. From up there the eye roams as far as the Catinaccio, the Sassolungo and the Latemar. The ascent on foot from the Alpe di Siusi follows waymarked paths that demand well-trained legs, while the more severe ridgelines are served by via ferratas reserved for experienced climbers. The entire area belongs to the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park, the first established in South Tyrol, and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach the Sciliar from the Alpe di Siusi?
From the plateau you set off on foot along waymarked trails that climb to the Rifugio Bolzano at 2,456 metres — a hike suited to fit walkers. The Denti di Terrarossa, on the other hand, can be admired comfortably from the scenic footpaths that cross the alp.
Why are they called Denti di Terrarossa?
The Italian name evokes the reddish hues the rock takes on in the raking light of sunset, while the German name Rosszähne means horse's teeth: both refer to the row of sharp spires lined up like a set of teeth.