Top 9 Gorges around Colle Santa Lucia
Best canyons around Colle Santa Lucia are found within the Dolomites, a region characterized by its dramatic mountain landscapes and deep natural formations. This mountain village provides access to notable gorges and rock formations. The area features spectacular natural monuments carved by erosion, offering varied experiences for visitors. These geological features are significant for both their natural beauty and historical relevance.
Best canyons around Colle Santa Lucia
- The most popular canyons is Cinque Torri, a natural monument that consists of five main stone monoliths rising dramatically from the landscape. This area is also historically significant, featuring an open-air museum with preserved trenches and fortifications from World War I.
- Another must-see spot is Serrai di Sottoguda, a spectacular gorge carved by the erosion of ice and the Pettorina torrent. This approximately 2 km long canyon connects Sottoguda and Malga Ciapela, featuring imposing rocky walls that can reach over a hundred meters in height.
- Visitors also love Travenanzes Valley, a wild and original gorge with lush meadows, a splashing stream, and idyllic bridges. This valley is known for its uncontaminated scenery, waterfalls, and streams, presenting a primordial beauty largely safeguarded from human development.
- Colle Santa Lucia is known for its gorges, natural monuments, and river valleys. The region offers a variety of canyons to see and explore, ranging from dramatic rock formations to deep, water-carved ravines.
- The canyons around Colle Santa Lucia are appreciated by the komoot community. These locations have garnered more than 1300 upvotes and over 360 photos from visitors.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Cinque Torri
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Five Towers
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Serrai di Sottoguda
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Chapel of Sant'Antonio of the Serrai di Sottoguda
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Travenanzes Valley
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more gorges around Colle Santa Lucia.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Colle Santa Lucia
Run through the clouds – Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites
Hiking one step from heaven – Alta Via delle Dolomiti 1
Hiking around Colle Santa Lucia
Road Cycling Routes around Colle Santa Lucia
Mountain Hikes around Colle Santa Lucia
Running Trails around Colle Santa Lucia
Cycling around Colle Santa Lucia
MTB Trails around Colle Santa Lucia
Gravel biking around Colle Santa Lucia
Tips from the Community
Finally everything is open again and nicely restored; a little detour is worth it for little money and safety equipment.
1
0
The little church of Sant'Antonio, located approximately halfway up the Serrai di Sottoguda gorge, was built in ancient times with the specific purpose of protecting travelers who ventured into the gorge, which until a few decades ago was the only route to Malga Ciapela and the Fassa Valley. Originally dedicated to Saint Anthony the Abbot, protector of animals, following a mass slaughter, it was later dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, whose feast day is June 13th. This was to allow the population to more easily reach the church for Holy Mass during a more favorable time of year, such as spring. It was renovated in 1880. In 1934, a plaque was placed there in memory of those who fell in the First World War on the Marmolada front. The two frescoes on the side transepts of the entrance door depict Saint Sebastian and Saint Rocco, patron saints of the church of Sottoguda.
1
0
I think the magic of the five towers is that they can be reached by all fitness levels: Level Easy: Take the lift. From the lift station it is a few hundred meters walk until you can touch the five towers. Level Medium: It is possible to walk along tarred and gravel paths with relatively little incline to the mountain station and from there to reach the towers as described above. Level Advanced: From the valley station it is about 400 meters in altitude that lead through the forest and directly through the five towers. We did the approx. 8 km tour in about 3 hours because we stopped a lot for pictures. The tour is public and you are welcome to follow along. https://www.komoot.com/de-DE/tour/1810377005?ref=itd
1
0
It's really impressive when you stand in front of the towers for the first time. Unfortunately, everything is too touristy and so hikers in Jesus slippers also come up here.
6
0
Here the path leads between the towers...with steps and narrow gaps...great!
5
0
By far the best view of the towers, here you can sit on the grass and have a picnic.
6
0
Behind us we can glimpse the path that enters the heart of the valley.
0
0
The first part of Val Travenanzes is like a "Lord of the Rings". Wild and majestic nature. Try to find me in the photo..
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular natural attractions around Colle Santa Lucia?
The area around Colle Santa Lucia is known for its dramatic natural landscapes. Among the most popular are Cinque Torri, a unique rock formation with five main stone monoliths, and Serrai di Sottoguda, a spectacular gorge carved by ice and water. Visitors also appreciate the wild beauty of Travenanzes Valley, with its pristine scenery and waterfalls.
Are there family-friendly canyons or gorges to visit near Colle Santa Lucia?
Yes, Serrai di Sottoguda is an excellent choice for families. It offers a relatively easy path through a stunning gorge with towering rock walls and waterfalls. In summer, it's ideal for peaceful excursions. Cinque Torri is also considered family-friendly, offering accessible views and historical sites.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the canyons around Colle Santa Lucia?
You'll encounter diverse natural features. In Serrai di Sottoguda, expect towering rock walls, dramatic waterfalls, and natural bridges. Cinque Torri features impressive stone monoliths and panoramic views. The Travenanzes Valley boasts lush meadows, a splashing stream, and numerous waterfalls in an uncontaminated setting.
What historical sites are located near these natural formations?
Both Cinque Torri and Serrai di Sottoguda have significant historical relevance. Cinque Torri hosts an open-air museum with preserved trenches and fortifications from World War I. Within Serrai di Sottoguda, you can find the small Sant'Antonio church, which historically protected travelers, and traces of World War I structures.
What is the best time of year to visit the canyons and gorges near Colle Santa Lucia?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activity. In summer, the gorges like Serrai di Sottoguda are ideal for walking and hiking. In winter, the frozen waterfalls of Serrai di Sottoguda transform it into a renowned ice climbing destination. The Dolomites offer stunning scenery year-round, but accessibility and activities vary seasonally.
Are there any challenging hiking trails in the gorges around Colle Santa Lucia?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Travenanzes Valley offers a wild and demanding trail with significant elevation gain and numerous fords. Gores de Federa also presents a challenging trail, especially in winter when crampons may be necessary due to icy sections.
What outdoor activities can I do near these canyons?
Beyond exploring the canyons, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and mountain biking. The area around Cinque Torri is particularly popular for rock climbing and hiking.
Where can I park when visiting Serrai di Sottoguda or Cinque Torri?
For Serrai di Sottoguda, parking is typically available near the towns of Sottoguda or Malga Ciapela, which are at either end of the gorge. For Cinque Torri, parking can be found near Passo Giau or at the base of the chairlift that accesses the area.
Are there any regulations or permits required for hiking in the Dolomites around Colle Santa Lucia?
Generally, hiking on marked trails in the Dolomites does not require specific permits. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations, especially for protected areas or if you plan to engage in activities like ice climbing in specific locations like Serrai di Sottoguda during winter. Always respect nature and follow trail etiquette.
What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons and gorges in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty and the sense of awe inspired by the towering rock formations and dramatic waterfalls. Many appreciate the combination of stunning scenery with historical significance, particularly at Cinque Torri and Serrai di Sottoguda. The tranquility of places like Travenanzes Valley is also a highlight.
Can I explore the Serrai di Sottoguda gorge by bike?
Yes, the Serrai di Sottoguda gorge can be explored by bike, on foot, or even via a sightseeing train service, making it accessible to many. However, it's important to note that parts of the gorge were affected by storm Vaia in 2019, so checking current accessibility before your visit is recommended. You can find more information on official tourism sites like visitmarmolada.com.
Are there viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the canyons?
Absolutely. Cinque Torri is renowned for its easily accessible and beautiful panoramic views of the Dolomites. Many trails around the various gorges also offer stunning vantage points to appreciate the dramatic landscapes and rock formations.
Most popular routes around Colle Santa Lucia
Most popular attractions around Colle Santa Lucia
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Colle Santa Lucia for your next adventure:
