An extraordinary panoramic experience without too much effort: this is the promise of the Alpe di Siusi tour, thanks to the namesake cable car that departs from Ortisei and saves mountain bike enthusiasts about 800 meters of elevation gain. The route, along well-maintained secondary roads and gravel trails, is also suitable for beginners and less trained athletes. Short and pleasant, with welcoming rest stops such as Malga Rauchhütte, this itinerary is perfect for everyone.
Starting from Santa Cristina, the tour begins with an almost continuous descent along the Gardena stream to Ortisei, where the Alpe di Siusi cable car awaits you, comfortably carrying two cyclists with their mountain bikes. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach the mountain station, the highest point of the tour, at about 2,000 meters above sea level. Here, surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of the Dolomites and with views of the Sciliar, Odle, Sassopiatto, and Sassolungo, you’ll immediately understand the reason behind the tour’s name.
An easy gravel descent followed by a short asphalt climb will lead you to the first rest option, Hotel Icaro. After a few kilometers of descent, on the left you’ll find the traditional Malga Rauchhütte, with its culinary delights and a beautiful panoramic terrace overlooking a wide meadow with deck chairs, from which you can admire an enchanting view.
Recharged, in just a few minutes you’ll reach Saltria and face the only significant climb of the tour, along a gravel forest road toward Monte Pana. With the views of Sassolungo and Sassopiatto rising before you, you’ll quickly overcome the 170 meters of elevation gain. From that point on, the route mainly consists of descents.
From Monte Pana to Ciaslat, you’ll find a trail that passes through meadows and forests, making the tour a bit more exciting. After Selva and the bike path following the old railway line, you’ll arrive at La Pozza and, crossing the opposite side of the Gardena stream, return to Santa Cristina, the starting point of the tour.
