Schlern

Schlern is a mountain massif in the Dolomites, located in South Tyrol, northern Italy. Its distinctive flat-topped silhouette makes it one of the most recognizable profiles in the region and a landmark visible from much of the surrounding valley landscape. The massif draws hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers from across Europe.

How to Get There

The main base for visiting Schlern is the village of Seis am Schlern (Italian: Siusi allo Sciliar). Bolzano, the regional capital of South Tyrol, is the nearest rail hub with connections to Milan, Vienna, and Innsbruck. Regional trains and buses link Bolzano to the Schlern area. A chairlift departing from Seis am Schlern carries visitors to the upper sections of the massif, significantly reducing the ascent time.

Those arriving by car should use the parking areas at the valley station — in high summer the road above can be restricted, and spots fill quickly during peak hours.

What Will You See?

Schlern sits within the Dolomites, a mountain range designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The plateau offers wide panoramas over surrounding peaks, alpine meadows, and the valleys of South Tyrol. The main summit, Santner Spitze, was first reached in July 1880 by Johann Santner, the mountaineer whose name it now bears.

The massif is part of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park (German: Naturpark Schlern-Rosengarten), a protected area encompassing rocky terrain, forest, and high-altitude meadows. The park supports typical Alpine wildlife, and the meadows are covered in wildflowers through the summer months.

Several marked trails cross the plateau at different difficulty levels — from easy walks suitable for families to more demanding routes leading to the technical summits.

When to Visit?

Summer, from June through September, is the prime hiking season: trails are fully clear of snow, days are long, and conditions suit walkers of all ages. Autumn is popular with photographers — golden meadows set against snow-dusted peaks produce striking compositions. Winter transforms the area into a ski destination, with several resorts operating in the vicinity.

Spring (April–May) can still see snow on higher sections; it is worth checking current trail conditions before heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Schlern difficult to climb? The plateau walks are accessible to anyone in good physical condition without specialist equipment. Only the routes to the technical summits, including Santner Spitze, require mountaineering experience and appropriate gear.

Do I need a mountain guide? Not for the standard marked trails — paths are well signposted and regularly used. For summit ascents or via ferrata routes, hiring a local certified guide is a sensible choice.

Where can I stay near Schlern? Seis am Schlern and the surrounding villages offer a broad range of accommodation: hotels, guesthouses, mountain huts, and farm stays (Urlaub auf dem Bauernhof). Booking in advance is recommended during July and August.

What should I bring on the trail? Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, a waterproof jacket, and enough water are essential. Even in midsummer, temperatures on the plateau drop noticeably compared to the valley below — an extra layer is useful year-round.