Daunei Viewpoint
Gateway to stunning Dolomite hikes, offering breathtaking panoramic views and access to mountain refuges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Daunei Viewpoint
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to stunning Dolomite hikes, offering breathtaking panoramic views and access to mountain refuges.
"Breathtaking views and a perfect starting point for unforgettable Dolomite adventures."
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking (€8/day) is available, or try for limited free spots early. Cash/card accepted.
🥾 Trail Access
Direct access to trails for Juac, Stevia, and Firenze refuges. Choose based on your fitness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Dolomite Views
Daunei Viewpoint
Breathtaking vistas of the Dolomites, including iconic peaks like Sassolungo and Sella.
Gateway to Juac Refuge
Trail 3
A comfortable hike to Juac Refuge, perfect for a scenic lunch or break amidst the mountains.
Access to Stevia Refuge
Trail 17/17A
Embark on a rewarding trek to Stevia Refuge, offering more incredible mountain scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Strategy
Best Hiking Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking (€8/day) is available, or try for limited free spots early. Cash/card accepted.
🥾 Trail Access
Direct access to trails for Juac, Stevia, and Firenze refuges. Choose based on your fitness.
💧 No Restrooms
Be prepared as there are no public restrooms at the parking area.
☀️ Early Bird Gets Spot
Free parking fills up quickly; arrive before 9 AM for the best chance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking (€8/day) is available, or try for limited free spots early. Cash/card accepted.
🥾 Trail Access
Direct access to trails for Juac, Stevia, and Firenze refuges. Choose based on your fitness.
💧 No Restrooms
Be prepared as there are no public restrooms at the parking area.
☀️ Early Bird Gets Spot
Free parking fills up quickly; arrive before 9 AM for the best chance.
💰 Exact Change Recommended
Parking machines may not give change, so try to pay the exact amount.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the breathtaking Dolomite views and convenient access to hiking trails leading to mountain refuges. Parking is a common point of discussion, with both paid and limited free options available, though it can fill up quickly. Some note the lack of restrooms as a minor inconvenience.
"Paid parking is available even in winter. The rate is €0.50 per half hour, with a daily rate of €8.00 available. Overnight parking for campers is not permitted. This is an ideal parking spot for reaching the Juac Hitte Refuge and the Firenze Refuge with a comfortable, yet not too strenuous, walk."
Sabrina Ricca
"Good parking. Cash or debit card payments accepted. €8 per day. But it fills up quickly. Restrooms would be great!"
Peter Gögelein
"Free parking located above the village of Daunei (Selva Val Gardena). This is the last free parking lot (in summer) for hikes to the Stevia Refuge (trails 17 or 17A), the Juac Refuge (trail 3), and the Firenze Refuge (trail 3). It's usually not full, but it's best to arrive early in the morning."
Stefano Cagol
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Daunei Viewpoint is accessible by car, located above Selva di Val Gardena. There are both paid and limited free parking options available.
While direct public transport to the viewpoint itself might be limited, buses frequently run to Selva di Val Gardena, from where you can arrange onward travel or start your hike.
The viewpoint serves as a direct starting point for several popular hiking trails, including those leading to Juac Refuge (Trail 3) and Stevia Refuge (Trails 17/17A).
Yes, parking is available in winter, though snow accumulation might affect accessibility. The paid parking option is available year-round.
From Selva di Val Gardena, follow signs towards the Gardena Pass. The Daunei parking area is typically located on the road leading up from the village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for the viewpoint itself. However, parking is available for a fee, typically €8 per day.
Paid parking operates from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. The cost is €8 for a full day.
Yes, the parking machines accept both cash and contactless card payments. It's advisable to have exact change if possible.
No, overnight parking for campers is not permitted at the Daunei parking area.
There are limited free parking spots available, but they fill up very quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Daunei Viewpoint is a fantastic starting point for hikes to Juac Refuge (Trail 3), Stevia Refuge (Trails 17/17A), and Firenze Refuge.
The hikes vary in difficulty. The walk to Juac Refuge is described as comfortable and not too strenuous, while others might require more effort.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites, with majestic peaks and alpine landscapes.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at the parking area. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with fewer crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, several mountain huts (refuges) are accessible via hikes from Daunei Viewpoint, such as Juac Hütte and Firenze Refuge, offering food and drinks.
You can typically find traditional South Tyrolean and Italian cuisine, including hearty meals, snacks, and local specialties.
While not always mandatory, making a reservation, especially during peak season or for dinner, is recommended to secure a spot.
Refuge opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their specific operating times before your hike.
Yes, you can bring your own food for a picnic while enjoying the views. However, many visitors enjoy the experience of dining at the mountain refuges.
📸 📸 Photography
The primary photo opportunities are the sweeping panoramic views of the Dolomites. Look for shots capturing the dramatic peaks and valleys.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The main viewpoint itself offers incredible vistas. Hikes to nearby refuges also provide unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as well as sun protection. Consider a carrier for very young children if they might tire easily. The open spaces are great for kids to explore, but always keep a close eye on them near trails and drop-offs.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Trekkers
Recommendations: Explore the routes to Juac, Stevia, and Firenze refuges. For a more adventurous experience, consider researching via ferrata routes in the broader Val Gardena area, which can sometimes be accessed with longer approaches from this region.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare. Arriving early or staying late can offer unique lighting conditions and fewer people in your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking at Daunei Viewpoint
For those seeking free parking, it's essential to arrive very early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM, as these spots fill up rapidly, especially during the summer months. Overnight parking for campers is strictly prohibited.
Key takeaway: Plan your arrival time strategically to secure parking, whether you opt for the paid convenience or the free, albeit limited, option. Consider the time of year and day of the week, as this will significantly impact availability.
Hiking Trails from Daunei Viewpoint
For those seeking slightly more challenging or different vistas, Trails 17 and 17A offer access to the Stevia Refuge. These trails wind through beautiful alpine scenery, rewarding hikers with stunning views. Another option is the trail to the Firenze Refuge, also accessible from this area.
Pro-tip: Always check the weather forecast before setting out and wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and layers of clothing. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
The Dolomite Scenery
As you gaze out, you'll likely spot prominent formations like the Sassolungo group and the Sella massif. The sheer scale and dramatic beauty of these mountains are awe-inspiring and make for incredible photo opportunities. Whether bathed in the golden light of sunrise or sunset, or under a clear blue sky, the views are consistently stunning.
Experiencing this landscape is what draws many visitors. The feeling of being surrounded by such immense natural beauty is often described as profound and unforgettable. It's a place that truly showcases the raw power and artistry of nature.
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