Piz Boè
Reach the highest peak of the Sella Group for breathtaking, lunar-like landscapes and unparalleled Dolomite panoramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Piz Boè
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Reach the highest peak of the Sella Group for breathtaking, lunar-like landscapes and unparalleled Dolomite panoramas.
"This place is marvelous, pictures won't show how majestic they really are, you have to experience this gate to heaven."
Check Weather Forecasts
Conditions change rapidly! Always check the forecast before heading up. :cloud:
Cable Car for Ease
Use the Sass Pordoi cable car to save time and energy for the summit. :mountain_cableway:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Piz Boè Summit
Sella Group
Reach the highest point of the Sella Group for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Dolomites.
Rifugio Capanna Piz Fassa
Near the summit
Enjoy a meal or a drink at this unique refuge, offering a lunar-like landscape and stunning vistas.
Sass Pordoi Cable Car
Passo Pordoi
A scenic cable car ride that whisks you up to the 'Terrace of the Dolomites' for incredible views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Cable Car vs. Hiking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Weather Forecasts
Conditions change rapidly! Always check the forecast before heading up. :cloud:
Cable Car for Ease
Use the Sass Pordoi cable car to save time and energy for the summit. :mountain_cableway:
Sturdy Footwear is Key
Even easier hikes require good hiking boots, especially if there's lingering snow. :athletic_shoe:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as there are limited opportunities to refill on the mountain. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Weather Forecasts
Conditions change rapidly! Always check the forecast before heading up. :cloud:
Cable Car for Ease
Use the Sass Pordoi cable car to save time and energy for the summit. :mountain_cableway:
Sturdy Footwear is Key
Even easier hikes require good hiking boots, especially if there's lingering snow. :athletic_shoe:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as there are limited opportunities to refill on the mountain. :water_wave:
Consider a Round Trip
Hike via Rifugio Boè for a more challenging but rewarding experience. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Piz Boè for its stunning, almost otherworldly panoramic views and its accessibility, especially via the Sass Pordoi cable car. Many highlight it as a 'gate to heaven' and a must-visit for its unique lunar-like landscape. Some note that while the main path is easy, certain sections can be more challenging, and weather can significantly impact the experience.
"Easy hike. If you are able-bodied it should be no problem to climb this mountain, especially when you will ride 2ith cable car to sass pordoi. I highly redomend to make a round trip via rifiugio boe. But hike from rifiugo boe is harder. There is a place with high exposure."
Tomasz Larysz
"Good news is that the place is marvelous, bad news is that this pictures and videos won’t show how majestic they really are, you will have to come here yes or yes to experience this gates to heaven."
Jonathan Carricarte
"My first 3000+ meters peak. Climbed during our Alta Via 2 hike. Relatively easy and excellent views."
Juraj Jurcik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular access point is via Passo Pordoi. From there, you can take the Sass Pordoi cable car directly to the 'Terrace of the Dolomites' (2,950m), from which Piz Boè is a relatively easy hike. Alternatively, you can hike from various starting points like Passo Gardena or Val di Fassa, though these are more strenuous. 
Yes, there is parking available at Passo Pordoi, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
You can reach Passo Pordoi by bus from towns like Canazei or Arabba. Check local bus schedules for routes and timings.
The 'Terrace of the Dolomites' is the nickname for the plateau reached by the Sass Pordoi cable car, offering spectacular panoramic views and serving as a gateway to Piz Boè.
Yes, there are multiple routes. The easiest is from Sass Pordoi via the plateau. More challenging routes include the Ferrata Cesare Piazzetta or hiking from Passo Gardena.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need an entry ticket for Piz Boè itself, as it's a natural peak. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the Sass Pordoi cable car if you choose to use it.
Cable car prices vary depending on the season and whether you purchase a round trip or one-way ticket. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
The cable car typically operates from late spring to early autumn. Hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official operating schedule before your visit.
While not always necessary, booking cable car tickets in advance online can sometimes save time, especially during busy periods.
No, the hiking trails themselves are generally free to access. The costs are associated with transportation like cable cars or parking.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
From Sass Pordoi, the hike to the summit is typically around 1-1.5 hours. Hiking from lower elevations or via Rifugio Boè can take significantly longer, from 3-5 hours or more.
The hike from Sass Pordoi is considered one of the easier 3,000m peaks and is manageable for most fit individuals. However, the terrain can be rocky and exposed in parts.
The terrain is a mix of rocky paths, scree, and some gravel. From Sass Pordoi, the path is well-trodden, but can be slippery if there's snow or ice.
Yes, there is the Rifugio Capanna Piz Fassa located near the summit, offering food, drinks, and a place to rest.
Expect breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites, including the Sella Group, Marmolada, and more. It's often described as a 'gate to heaven'.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for dramatic landscape photography. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular, but ensure you have a safe way down.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
The summit itself offers incredible 360 views. The plateau near Sass Pordoi and the approach to Rifugio Capanna Piz Fassa also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone regulations can be strict in national parks. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
Be prepared for changing weather, including wind, sun, and potentially rain or snow, even in summer. Layers and waterproof gear are essential. :umbrella:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main path from Sass Pordoi is manageable, keep a close eye on children, especially near any exposed edges. The Rifugio Capanna Piz Fassa provides a great spot for a break and a meal, making the outing more enjoyable for everyone. Consider the age and stamina of your children when planning, but generally, the cable car route is very family-friendly.
⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Climbers
+1Experienced hikers can also explore longer trekking routes that connect Piz Boè to other parts of the Sella Group, such as the Alta Via 2. These multi-day treks offer a deeper immersion into the Dolomites' rugged beauty. Planning these longer expeditions requires careful navigation, appropriate gear, and an understanding of alpine conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accessing Piz Boè: Cable Car vs. Hiking
+1For the more adventurous or those seeking a more immersive experience, hiking routes are available. These can start from various points, including Passo Gardena or Val di Fassa, and often involve a more significant ascent. A popular option is to hike from the Sass Pordoi plateau, continuing past Rifugio Boè. While this route is still considered moderate, it can be more challenging due to the terrain and potential for lingering snow, especially earlier or later in the season. Redditors often discuss the trade-offs between the ease of the cable car and the satisfaction of a full hike, with many recommending the cable car for its efficiency and stunning views.
Regardless of your chosen method, it's crucial to be prepared. The high altitude means weather can change rapidly, and even in summer, snow can be present. Always check the forecast, wear appropriate footwear, and carry essentials like water and sun protection. The experience of standing atop Piz Boè, surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, is unforgettable, whether you ascend with a cable car or on foot.
The Unique Landscape of Piz Boè
One of the key features of this landscape is the presence of Rifugio Capanna Piz Fassa, a mountain hut situated near the summit. This refuge adds a touch of human presence to the rugged terrain and offers a welcome respite for hikers. Visitors often rave about the unique atmosphere of dining or resting here, surrounded by such an extraordinary environment. The contrast between the natural, raw beauty of the Dolomites and the cozy, functional refuge is striking.
The geological formations around Piz Boè are also of interest, showcasing the ancient history of the Dolomites. The Sella Group, to which Piz Boè belongs, is composed of ancient coral reefs that have been uplifted and shaped over millions of years. This geological heritage contributes to the dramatic peaks and valleys that define the region, offering a glimpse into the Earth's powerful past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit