Italian Dolomites: Viel Dal Pan

Viel dal Pan circuit is an excellent hike to warm you up for the Italian Dolomites vacation. The amazing landscape, the stunning views towards Marmolada Glacier and the green grass paths will guarantee a perfect day outdoors.

Hike the Viel Dal Pan

This was the first hike in this holiday and we decided to aim for something easy, perfect for warming up. We heard about this route and there was undoubtedly the best choice. The circuit is by all means absolutely breathtaking. It’s an easy hike and for sure a crowded one, because of this reason, but I can say even so, it’s worth making it.

All the way you’re surrounded by majestic landscapes and if you’re lucky enough to catch a sunny day you can admire all the way the Marmolada Glacier on this panoramic path.

From Passo Pardoi (free huge parking) we followed the path 601 towards Rifugio Viel dal Pan. For non Italian speakers – Viel dal Pan translates to “Bread Path”. It was the old shortcut route that the flour merchants were using.

The hike is easy and to escape the multitude of people we ran the sections that permitted that. You climb around 500 m at the beginning of the hike, in the first two kilometers and then you more or less maintain the altitude. It’s totally relaxing and careless.

After the first chalet – Rifugio Baita Fredarola we keep admiring the Fedaia Lake below us and the mighty Marmolada Glacier to our right. This path is so impressive.

Next small stop is Rifugio Viel dal Pan. This one is definitely more crowded than the first one, take this into consideration if you plan to eat during the hike.

The highest point and as well the highlight of the hike is Rifugio Luigi Groza. The spot is divine. 360 degrees panoramic view. The lounge area is so inviting, only the cold wind barely manages to set back course for your hike. It’s a place where you must stop at least for a coffee.

What’s very interesting about this hike is the fact that it’s a circuit around the ridge of the mountain, as such, you get to see the landscape from all angles. We descended directly from the Rifugio Luigi Groza following path 680. This intersects a few times the Sella Ronda circuit. This is another Dolomites attraction – during winter you can make the circuit on skis and during the warm season on mountain bike. Around 40 km for skiing and 60 kg for MTB that passes over three passes, four valleys and three provinces.

But back to our route, the descent was quite different. Lush vegetation, a narrow path and a nice view towards the other side of the mountain.

Must say, this day exceeded our expectations, that’s for sure. If you’re in the area and looking for a nice relaxing hike make sure not to miss this one. And keep in mind, our photos might be pretty but they’re nothing compared to reality.

GPS track for Viel Dal Pan

How to get to Viel Dal Pan?

From Canzei drive towards Passo Pardoi on SS48. There’s also a huge parking lot there so an excellent logistic asset.

Where to sleep?

For this particular route we stayed in Canazei at Camping Marmolada. This is a great base – camp for a lot of routes in the area. The camping is right in the middle of the town, so shopping facilities are at walking distances. Another good thing, there is a covered place where you can eat your own food and of course all the other usual facilities that you generally find in campings.  At the opposite pole, take into consideration it can be a bit noisy around and as well a bit too crowded. The accommodation price may differ based on the period of the year – but generally you can calculate it between 25-35 eur/night for 2 persons, one small car and one small tent. Other than that, all good.

Good to know

• Hiking paths: 601 + 680
• If you’re a trail runner, this would be an excellent trail to start the day. 
• If you want to avoid the crowds, start super early.
• Great hike for beginners or families as well. 
• You can find food and refreshments at the huts along the way.

Hope you found the information helpful and accurate, but remember, if you have any questions drop them in a comment below!

Other great adventures