An idyllic high plateau at 2,000 metres
Plätzwiese in South Tyrol – Experience the high plateau of the Dolomites
Plätzwiese high plateau is one of the most stunning high plateaus in the Dolomites and a true natural paradise within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located at around 2,000 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking alpine scenery, vast mountain meadows, and spectacular views of famous Dolomite peaks such as Hohe Gaisl peak, Dürrenstein peak, the Tofane massif, and the iconic Three Peaks.
Whether it’s a leisurely hike, a photo spot, or a winter adventure - Plätzwiese high plateau is a special highlight in the Dolomites all year round.
What is Plätzwiese high plateau?
Plätzwiese is a wide alpine plateau located in the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park, in the heart of the Pragser Dolomites. Its unique location in the heart of the mountains makes it one of the quietest yet most impressive places in South Tyrol.
Surrounded by striking peaks, the Plätzwiese high plateau offers a unique combination of alpine scenery, nature experiences, and easy access—ideal for families, hikers, and nature lovers.
Highlights
Easy scenic hikes
Impressive year-round
How to get to Plätzwiese high plateau
By car
Access is via the toll road from Brückele in the Pragser Valley.
The following restrictions apply depending on the season:
- Access is usually only permitted before 10:00 a.m. and after 3:00 p.m.
- Limited parking is available on Plätzwiese high plateau
- Access will be closed once the parking lot is full
👉 Tip: Arrive early to secure a parking spot.
by public transportation
You can also reach Plätzwiese easily by public transport:
- Bus route 443 from Toblach, Welsberg or Niederdorf
- Direct service to Plätzwiese in summer
- Shuttle service from Brückele in winter
This option is particularly stress-free and environmentally friendly.
Alternatively, you can walk to Plätzwiese from Brückele in around 2.5 hours.
Parking at Plätzwiese
There are only a limited number of parking spaces available directly on the high plateau at Plätzwiese. These spaces fill up quickly, especially during the high season, so it is advisable to arrive early.
If the car park at Plätzwiese is already full, you can easily use the Brückele car park in the Pragser Valley instead. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or walk up to Plätzwiese.
Tip: Plan your journey for as early in the day as possible or use the shuttle bus to reach Plätzwiese stress-free and without having to search for a parking space.
Hiking with a view
With its lush alpine meadows, golden larch forests and sweeping mountain vistas, Plätzwiese is a dream destination for nature lovers. Located at 2,000 metres, this high plateau elevates hiking – both literally and figuratively – offering serene exploration in an unforgettable alpine setting.
Whether you're in the mood for a gentle hike or a more challenging loop, Plätzwiese features routes to suit every pace. Families and leisure hikers will enjoy the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views with minimal effort. Those in search of a greater challenge can venture higher into the mountains – perhaps to the summit of Dürrenstein or, on a long-distance route beneath the Hohe Gaisl mountain, to Rossalm hut.
Best time to visit Plätzwiese
The best time to visit the Plätzwiese in the Dolomites depends largely on the activities you have planned. Generally speaking, the high plateau is a worthwhile destination all year round.
In summer, the Plätzwiese is at its most diverse: the alpine meadows are green, the hiking trails are easy to navigate, and the views are particularly clear. Autumn is also ideal for a visit – with golden colours and significantly fewer visitors.
In winter, on the other hand, the Plätzwiese offers a peaceful, snow-covered landscape and perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Tip: Summer is the best time of year for hiking, whilst autumn is particularly good for peace and quiet and photography.
Mountain biking to South Tyrol’s best vantage points
Plätzwiese doesn’t just enchant hikers – it’s a paradise for MTB enthusiasts, too. Whether by mountain bike or e-bike, exploring this high plateau means encountering diverse trails and unforgettable alpine scenery at every turn. One standout adventure is the MTB loop from Prags via Brückele and Plätzwiese to Toblach and back – a route that seamlessly blends athletic challenge with beautiful scenery.
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