Vallunga opens up right behind Selva di Val Gardena and is the classic choice for anyone who wants to be in the mountains without tackling significant elevation. It is the entrance to the Puez-Odle Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and the main trail (number 14) follows the almost flat valley floor through meadows, larch forests and alongside the stream, with Dolomite walls closing the horizon on both sides. The first stretch is so easy that it is manageable with a hiking pram, and encountering cattle grazing along the way is a detail that children invariably love.
As you walk on, you reach the Chapel of San Silvestro, dedicated to the patron of livestock: restoration work in the early 1990s uncovered centuries-old frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jesus, and the outdoor benches invite a peaceful rest in the silence. Those who wish to continue can head uphill towards Rifugio Puez, extending the day on more demanding terrain. In winter the valley changes character and becomes a classic destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, thanks to its wide, sheltered floor. In every season it remains the most relaxed way to savour Val Gardena.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vallunga suitable for children?
Very much so — it is one of the most family-friendly valleys around. The valley floor is nearly flat, the path is wide and easy, and the first section can even be done with a hiking pram. Cattle grazing in the fields are a regular sight along the way.
Can you visit Vallunga in winter?
Yes. In winter it becomes a classic destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, thanks to its wide, avalanche-sheltered floor. A pleasant walk on packed snow is also perfectly enjoyable.