Vallunga is a gentle, flat valley that winds into the Puez-Odle Nature Park: in winter, blanketed in snow and framed by Dolomitic walls, it becomes one of the most popular snowshoe destinations in Val Gardena.
The route is almost entirely flat and suitable for everyone, including families with children — it can be lengthened or shortened simply by going further up the valley or turning back earlier.
How to get there — Parcheggio Vallunga, Selva (1.660 m)
The snowshoe walk starts from the Vallunga car park, at 1,660 m, at the far end of Selva di Val Gardena towards the entrance to the Puez-Odle Nature Park. Reach Selva by driving up Val Gardena on the SS242 and follow the signs for Vallunga to the paid car park at the mouth of the valley, near the La Ciajota hut. In winter it is the most convenient access point, but at weekends and in high season it fills up early in the morning. Arriving by mid-morning helps you find a space and make the most of the few hours of winter daylight.
The trailhead is in the Val Gardena area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. From the car park along the valley floor
Follow the packed snow track along the flat valley bottom, between forests and rock walls, with minimal gradient.
2. Further up the valley
Those who wish can continue to the head of Vallunga before retracing their steps back to the start.
When to go & weather
The season runs from December to March, with the valley under snow and the track packed along the valley floor. Sunny days after a snowfall offer the finest scenery, with the white plain framed by the walls of the Puez-Odle. Bear in mind that winter daylight is short: set off in the morning and carefully plan your return times. It is an easy (T) and almost level snowshoe walk, suitable for beginners and families too, but the weather and avalanche bulletin should still be checked before setting out.
Recommended gear
- Snowshoes suited to your weight and poles with snow baskets
- Warm, waterproof winter boots
- Layered clothing with a windproof and snowproof shell
- Gloves, hat and gaiters for the deep snow
- Sunglasses or goggles and sun cream: the glare in the valley is strong
- A flask of hot drink and a few energy snacks
Useful tips
- Follow the packed track along the valley floor, also marked for cross-country skiing, without stepping onto the skiers' track
- Check the weather and bulletin before setting off, even though the valley is easy and little exposed
- Set off in the morning to return in daylight: in winter the dark falls early
- Adjust the distance to your strength: you can shorten it or walk to the head of the valley, about 6 km long
- Look out along the way for the ruins of Castel Wolkenstein and the chapel of San Silvestro
- Bring a hot drink and protect your eyes from the snow glare
Frequently asked questions
Do you need experience to snowshoe in Vallunga?
No — it is one of the easiest snowshoe routes in the Dolomites, on nearly flat terrain. You will need snowshoes, warm clothing and awareness of winter daylight hours and weather conditions.