Val di Funes/Villnösstal is a must-see on every Italian Dolomite tour. It's impossible not to fall in love with this breathtaking mountain valley. The Odle/Geisler peaks appear to have been sculpted with a passion from this viewpoint, and are intended to perpetually pierce the sky.
Elegant farmsteads, picturesque cathedrals, and alpine pastures may be found below these towering hills, begging to be photographed. It's a visual symphony between controlled pastoral charm and unfettered beauty that is wonderfully complemented by nature and modernity.
When seen against the backdrop of the Puez-Odle mountain with its jagged spires, the Val di Funes village churches offer a stunning sight. It's easy to see why the Dolomites have become such a popular destination for Instagram users. The quaint beauty of the countryside is contrasted with the towering stone towers.
Santa Maddalena
Since it is the final town you come across on your way up the valley, Santa Maddalena is referred to as “a monte” (upstream). The tiny church of San Giovanni in Rani located at the foot of the Odle Group and is said to have been designed on the spot where the waterways of the Rio Fiopal wiped away an artwork portraying the patron saint of the town in 1394, has made Santa Maddalena a legendary village with 370 residents and a height of 1,339 metres. It's a great spot to get away from it all and enjoy some quiet time.
Hiking in Val di Funes
If you're a fan of hiking, you'll have no shortage of options in Val di Funes. The Adolf Munkel route, for example, offers a close-up view of the Geisler/Odle mountains.
The Herrensteig Trails
In South Tyrol, Val di Funes boasts the widest network of Nordic walking trails. Itineraries of more than 100 kilometres are available. There are options for snowshoeing tours if you visit in the winter.
The Adolf Munkel Trail
In the Val di Funes, you may trek to the foot of Odle-towering Geisler's spires in under 24 hours. This rocky paradise, which looms above the picturesque Val di Funes, is a fantastic and slightly challenging day trek in the Dolomites.
With its start at Ranui's popular San Giovanni Church, the Aldof Munkel Trail (Sentiero delle Odle) takes you away from the tourist trail and into a rock paradise with stunning views of the high alpine pastures.
We recommend making time in your schedule for a classic South Tyrolean meal at an alpine meadow hut while you're in Val di Funes.
The Vilnöss Alpine Pastures are known for their picturesque settings, delicious meals, and welcoming atmosphere. From the end of May to the middle of October, the majority of huts are open for business. These hours, however, are subject to change each year based on the amount of snow on the ground.
