Behind Pozza di Fassa opens Val San Nicolò, the old grazing ground of the village and probably the finest side valley in the area. It's a wide green basin crossed by a stream and dotted with flowering meadows, wooden farmhouses and working alpine huts. At the height of haymaking, with cattle in the pastures, it's one of the liveliest scenes in Val di Fassa. Waterfalls turn up along the trail, which keeps the walk pleasant even on the hottest days.
The beauty here is the slow pace. From mid-May to mid-October the valley road is closed to cars at the Vidor car park, and you carry on by foot or take the shuttle bus and the little train that climb toward huts like Ciampiè. The main valley path is easy and nearly flat, fine for prams and families, with food stops at the alpine dairies. If you want some height, trails from the head of the valley lead toward Passo San Nicolò and the high refuges. In winter the valley becomes terrain for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Frequently asked questions
Is Val San Nicolò suitable for families?
Yes, it's one of the best picks for kids. The valley floor path is easy and nearly flat, fine with a pram, with alpine dairies along the way where you can stop for a meal.
How do you enter Val San Nicolò?
The entrance is at Pozza di Fassa. From mid-May to mid-October the road is closed to cars at the Vidor car park; from there you carry on by foot or take the shuttle bus and little train up the valley.