Nature
Monte Piana
What it is
Monte Piana is a broad, flat-topped mountain plateau at 2,324 metres in the Sexten Dolomites, sitting right on the border between South Tyrol and Belluno. Unlike the jagged peaks around it, its summit is a wide open ridge, which is why it draws walkers rather than climbers: from the top you get unobstructed views across to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the surrounding Dolomite ranges. The mountain was also a front line during the First World War, and open-air trenches, tunnels and gun positions are still visible along the plateau, with some marked as an outdoor museum.
Getting there
Monte Piana isn't reached directly from a town centre. Drivers head to the Cimabanche/Carbonin area or the road below Lake Misurina, then continue to the Rifugio Podestagno/Monte Piana car park, from which a service road and hiking path lead up to the plateau. Allow 15-20 minutes by car from Lake Misurina before starting on foot.
Time to allow
The walk up from the car park takes around 1.5-2 hours on foot, following a jeep track; a shuttle service is sometimes available for those who don't want to walk up. Once on the plateau, plan at least 2-3 hours to explore the summit paths and war remains, more if you plan to walk the full loop and visit the small museum huts along the way.
When to go
Go in the morning if you want clearer visibility for the views, as clouds can build over the peaks by early afternoon in summer. The route is only accessible in snow-free months, roughly June to October; outside this window snow and ice make the plateau unsuitable for casual walking. Summer weekends can get busy at the car park and on the lower track.
Combine it with
Lake Misurina is only 3.9 km away and makes a natural stop before or after the walk. Dürrensee, 1.7 km off, is a short detour for a quieter lakeside break. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo, 5.1 km away and visible from the summit itself, are worth planning as a separate excursion given the walking time each requires.
Updated September 20, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
GetYourGuide
Klook
Tiqets
KKday
WeGoTrip
Booking.com
Hotels.com
