Winter Hike in Val Pusteria
A gentle winter hike leads us into the heart of the Rodengo Alpine Plateau, located at the entrance to Val Pusteria in South Tyrol. The stunning Rodengo and Luson plateau offers a magnificent landscape in winter, with vast expanses of snow stretching as far as the eye can see, until they meet the silhouettes of the Odle Dolomites rising nearby.
This is a peaceful corner of the Alps, perfect for a winter walk, leading us to the Rastner Mountain Hut, perched at 1,939 metres, one of the main huts of the plateau.
We set off along a wide forest track, initially following signs for Roner Alm. The walk to Roner Alm is relaxed and easy, and shortly after reaching the hut, we find ourselves leaving the forest behind as the landscape opens out into the vast Alpine meadows.
The snow-covered fields stretch endlessly, the sun takes centre stage, and the crisp blue sky spreads above us, perfectly clear and bright.
From here on, we enter the most scenic part of the route, as the view opens beyond the woods towards the distant Dolomites. Sass de Putia rises majestically at the centre, while Cima Nove and Cima Dieci of the Fanes Dolomites can be seen further along the horizon.
The final stretch of the trail unfolds completely in the open, with sweeping views over the snowy plateau. Along the way, we take several detours to enjoy this beautiful afternoon hike on the Rodengo Plateau: Sass de Putia watches us from afar, and we pause to admire it from a snowy clearing off the path.
Our PowPowwinter poles are our trusted companions, offering excellent support — their long foam handles allow for various grips, and their wide snow baskets prevent them from sinking too deep into the snow, making them ideal for climbs.
After a well-earned break at Rastner Hut, we prepare to retrace our steps along the same path. As late afternoon sets in, the light grows softer, creating a magical atmosphere with delicate shades of pale orange brushing over the snow.
The rocky mountain peaks turn vibrant with sunset hues, in that special moment that makes the Dolomites so unique — embraced by silence and the vastness of the view. We follow the forest track back, until the edge of the woods greets us and quietly envelops us in the first shadows of winter evening, gently closing behind us the enchanted plateau with its white, snowy expanses.
