With the arrival of autumn, Val Gardena transforms into a natural stage where light, colours and mountains come together to create one of the most fascinating spectacles in the Dolomites: the Burning Dolomites phenomenon.
There is a time of year when the Dolomites seem to catch fire. It is autumn, when the larches gradually change colour and the last rays of sunlight transform the cliffs and peaks of the “Pale Mountains” into a mosaic of red, orange and pink hues. This natural phenomenon is known as Enrosadira and is the protagonist of Burning Dolomites, an experience in Val Gardena that celebrates one of the most fascinating moments of the year in the mountains.
From September to early November 2026, the valley invites hikers, photography enthusiasts and nature lovers to discover the most spectacular side of the season through a programme of outdoor experiences organised by Val Gardena Active.
The highlight of the spectacle comes after mid-September, when the needles of the larches turn from green to yellow before bursting into shades of orange and red. At the same time, the unique natural light of the sun enhances the shapes of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating landscapes that change from minute to minute.
This is not simply about admiring the scenery: Burning Dolomites invites visitors to step into the spectacle itself, following trails at sunset and reaching some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Val Gardena. The experience becomes a combination of hiking, nature, photography and mountain culture.
Sunset over the Dolomites from Sëurasas
One of the most exciting experiences is the “Burning Dolomites from the Sëurasas panoramic viewpoint” hike, offered every Thursday. The route starts from the Cristauta area, near Santa Cristina, and leads through the forest to Sëurasas, an extraordinary natural balcony overlooking the Dolomites.
The ascent takes place in the late afternoon, allowing participants to reach the viewpoint just as the light begins to change. From here, they can witness the Enrosadira as the last hours of sunlight gradually colour the mountains and sky.
The hike takes approximately three hours and covers around 5 kilometres, with 400 metres of ascent and the same amount of descent. It is classified as a medium-difficulty route and is accompanied by a certified local mountain guide.
On selected dates, the experience includes an additional highlight: an aperitif with snacks and desserts is served at a traditional mountain hut before participants continue to the rocky viewpoint to enjoy the last rays of sunlight.
At the end of the experience, the return journey takes place through the forest, using headlamps provided by the organisers, making the descent an atmospheric experience in its own right.
Stevia and Alpe Juac: walking through the “fire” of the Dolomites
The second itinerary leads to the Stevia area, with a hike towards Alpe Juac. The experience takes place every Tuesday and is more demanding, lasting approximately four and a half hours and designed for hikers accustomed to mountain terrain.
The meeting point is the Active & Events office in Selva di Val Gardena. From there, the route gradually reveals the transformation of the landscape as the sun sets and the autumn colours become increasingly intense.
It is along this itinerary that the meaning of Burning Dolomites becomes particularly evident: the Dolomite peaks, already spectacular in their distinctive shapes, are enhanced by the warm, low-angle afternoon and sunset light, while the larches add a rich palette of autumn colours to the landscape.
The combination of clear skies, autumn vegetation and the light of the Enrosadira creates particularly rewarding conditions for photography enthusiasts, who come to Val Gardena at this time of year in search of the perfect conditions to capture the landscape.
Information
The Burning Dolomites experiences are organised by Val Gardena Active. Information, the full programme and bookings are available on the official website.
