The best gravel rides around Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten – Parco naturale dello Sciliar-Catinaccio

Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten offers a wide selection of gravel bike trails, with nearly 100 routes available for exploration. These range from easy paths to challenging mountain ascents.

Yes, there are a few easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. One such option is the Siusi–San Antonio Gravel Path – View of Völs am Schlern loop from Ruine Aichach - Rovine Castel Rovereto, which is just under 8 km long and features minimal elevation gain.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Road to Alpe di Siusi – Compatsch / Compaccio loop from Seis am Schlern - Siusi allo Sciliar offer significant elevation gain and panoramic vistas. Another demanding option is the View of Castel Presule – View of San Costantino Church loop from Ruine Aichach - Rovine Castel Rovereto, which covers over 58 km with substantial climbing.

Many of the gravel bike trails in Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular View of Alpe di Siusi – Compatsch / Compaccio loop from Ruine Aichach - Rovine Castel Rovereto and the shorter View of the Langkofel – Zallinger Hut and Chapel loop from Tirler Alm - Rifugio Tirler.

The best season for gravel biking in Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are clear of snow, offering ideal conditions for exploring the alpine meadows and forests.

The trails in Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten offer breathtaking viewpoints of the iconic Dolomites. You can expect expansive views of the Alpe di Siusi plateau, the majestic Schlern massif, and the Rosengarten group. Specific highlights include the View of the Sciliar from Lake Fiè.

While many routes involve significant elevation, some shorter, less technical sections can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with moderate climbs. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile before heading out with family.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from high alpine meadows to dense forests, and the stunning panoramic views of the Dolomites, especially the Schlern and Rosengarten massifs.

Beyond the stunning mountain views, you can encounter various natural attractions. The region features beautiful lakes like Völser Weiher – Laghetto di Fiè and Wuhnleger Pond with a View of the Rosengarten. You might also pass through picturesque gorges such as Bärenfalle Gorge Trail or the Prügelsteig Gorge Trail.

Yes, public transport options, including buses, serve various villages and trailheads within and around Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten. This allows for flexible access to many routes, especially those starting from towns like Seis am Schlern (Siusi allo Sciliar) or Compatsch (Compaccio) on the Alpe di Siusi.

Many routes, particularly those traversing popular areas like the Alpe di Siusi, pass by mountain huts (Rifugi) and cafes where you can stop for refreshments. For example, the View of the Langkofel – Zallinger Hut and Chapel loop includes the Zallinger Hut, and other trails may lead past places like Rifugio Molignon – Mahlknechthütte.

Designated parking areas are available in key access points and villages surrounding Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten, such as Seis am Schlern (Siusi allo Sciliar), Völs am Schlern (Fiè allo Sciliar), and at the base of the Alpe di Siusi cable car in Compatsch (Compaccio). Some trailheads also have smaller parking lots, but these can fill up quickly during peak season.