autumn in primiero

Autumn foliage in trentino

In this time of year, the treetops blaze with color, displaying shades from bright red to golden yellow, ochre to burnt sienna — a mix of tones that warms the eyes and, more importantly, the soul. A walk through the forest in autumn is an experience to savor at least once in a lifetime, a total and immersive journey that awakens all the senses.

Just a few steps are enough to feel embraced by the warm hug of the forest and its unmistakable scent of moss and resin. As a stream flows in the distance, multicolored leaves drift gently, brushing past us before settling on the ground to carpet the path, only to join us again with their cheerful crunch underfoot.

Nature slows down and prepares for winter, perhaps gently suggesting that we do the same. A walk among larches, firs, beeches, and birches becomes a moment to embrace this wonderful slowness and leave behind the stress of everyday life. And yet, not all forests are alike: when the enchanting hues of the autumn woods are paired with views of the Dolomite peaks, the effect is simply extraordinary.

Here are five trails to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the foliage, warmed by the gentle autumn sun!

INTRECCI DEL TEMPO

This 7-kilometer route winds through the forests surrounding Sagron Mis, a place full of discoveries, located between the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Nature Park and the Belluno Dolomites National Park. After leaving your car in the large parking area near Chalet Giasenei and the T3 observation tower, you immediately enter beautiful beech and fir forests.

The trail follows a mix of old paths and comfortable forest roads. Along the way, 16 informative totems and 3 interpretive harps guide you step by step, revealing stories and curiosities connected to the blend of activities, traditions, and legends that have shaped the lives of the local inhabitants over the centuries.

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CORDOGNÈ SAN GIOVANNI

This mid-altitude themed trail winds through the forests and meadows overlooking the village of Mezzano, one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages. It’s an easy loop, taking about 2,5 hours, highly recommended during the foliage season when the numerous beeches create a spectacular explosion of autumn colors, from yellow to burnt tones and fiery red.

Along the way, you’ll encounter small clearings and viewpoints offering unexpected and unusual perspectives: from the Pale di San Martino to Monte Pavione, from the green meadows of San Giovanni to the turquoise waters of Lago della Val Noana. At the most scenic points of the trail, numerous benches invite you to pause, admire the natural spectacle, and take a moment just for yourself.

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SENTIERO DEGLI ABETI GIGANTI

This trail leads to the discovery of centuries-old fir trees that, with their 50-meter height, stand like towering guardians — silent keepers of Val Noana. Red firs, white firs, but also beeches and yews await autumn to dress in shades of fire, gold, and earth, turning a simple walk through these woods into something truly magical.

The trail is divided into two well-marked routes, both starting from the Casina Forestale di Valpiana. The shorter one, 2.7 kilometers long, is perfect for enjoying the forest’s silence and gently stepping into its heart. The longer route, 7.3 kilometers, leads to the pastures of Malga Val de Stua — the most scenic point of the entire trail — where, surrounded by the stillness of nature, you can admire an extraordinary 360° view over the Primiero Valley, with the Pale di San Martino, the Lagorai Range, and the majestic Vette Feltrine.

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SENTIERO DELLE MUSE FEDAIE

This barrier-free themed trail is located in Val Canali and winds through the meadows surrounding Villa Welsperg, the headquarters of the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Nature Park. Along the route, several “wooden stops” dedicated to the goddesses of Greek mythology invite reflection on the biodiversity of these places — and also offer a chance to relax while admiring the Pale di San Martino, which here form a natural amphitheater like no other.

Walking the Sentiero delle Muse Fedaie is beneficial for both body and soul: along the way, you’ll find an area to experience the wellness of the Kneipp method and a sensory path dedicated to the “times of the earth,” where you can walk barefoot on 250-million-year-old rock. A stop at Lake Welsperg is a must — the Dolomite peaks are mirrored in this small yet charming alpine lake, blending with the kaleidoscope of autumn forest colors and creating a breathtaking play of reflections.

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CAPITEL DE LA FRATTA

Off the beaten path, this walk offers peace, quiet, and above all, unexpected and stunning views. The route begins in Ronco Cainari and allows you to rediscover aspects of traditional rural life. Before entering the heart of the forest, you’ll come across an ancient water mill — beautifully restored and still functioning today for educational and demonstration purposes.

The trail continues along an old forest path, with plenty of rest spots, thought-provoking insights for adults, and local legends for children. Spruces, larches, beeches, and hazelnut trees don their autumn colors, making the walk even more delightful. Once you reach the Capitello, every effort is rewarded with an unparalleled view over the wild Vanoi Valley and the magnificent Pale di San Martino.

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