The Alpe di Siusi is a true winter paradise. This large, sunny high plateau features an extensive network of hiking and walking paths of all levels. One of the most popular excursions leads to the rifugio Molignon hut (2,054 m a.s.l.), whereas another one runs along the Hans and Paula Steger Trail from Compaccio (or Compatsch) to Saltria. Thanks to its moderate elevation gain this path is particularly suitable for a relaxing winter hike.

As we ascend with the Alpe di Siusi cable car we can see the winter landscape changing below us. The higher we get the thicker the snow. Here the shadow is replaced by sunny pastures. At the mountain station of Compatsch we head towards the church where the hiking path begins. Since almost all ski slopes are crossed by bridges we only need to watch out for horse-drawn sleighs. Slightly before the Hotel Steger-Dellai the path crosses the Compatsch-Saltria road and then proceeds slightly uphill. Then we walk through a forest and arrive at a small slope which delights us with an amazing view of the Sassolungo group.

Right where the Hans and Paula Steger path detours southwards, we follow the signpost "Sentiero per Saltria" (Fußweg nach Saltria) which takes us to the houses and hotels of this small settlement above the valle Jender. The final section of our tour surprises us with a stunning view of Monte Piz and of the Puez-Odle group.

Author: AT

Date of the hike: 1 January 2011
Reviewed in: 2025