Sexten sundial
A truly iconic natural backdrop
The heart of the Sexten Dolomites
Sexten: the village of the Three Peaks
In Sexten, the characteristic mountain village in South Tyrol, nature and outdoor adventures continue to impress visitors time and again. Surrounded by the legendary peaks of the Sexten sundial, this village is considered the cradle of alpinism in the Dolomites – a legacy of more than 150 years closely tied to mountain sports. Whether you want to go hiking, climbing, mountain biking or paragliding in summer or explore the snowy landscapes on skis in winter: Sexten offers the perfect setting for your next Dolomites adventure.
Highlights
Fischleintal valley as the gateway
To the Three Peaks
year-round outdoor fun for mountain lovers
The Sexten sundial: a timeless natural wonder
One glance is all it takes to realise that the Sexten sundial is rightly considered one of the most iconic mountain silhouettes in the world. Naturally formed, the distinctive Dolomite peaks known as Croda Sora i Colesei, Cima Nove, Cima Dieci, Cima Undici, Cima Dodici and Cima Uno mark the time of day depending on the position of the sun.
Good to know: This natural phenomenon is especially striking on clear winter days when the sun bathes the peaks above Sexten in a golden light.
The Fischleintal valley in the UNESCO World Heritage Three Peaks nature park
Nearly 4.5 kilometres long and set in the heart of the Three Peaks nature park, the Fischleintal valley runs from Moos to Rifugio Fondovalle. The diverse landscape offers a wealth of hiking trails, climbing routes and cross-country skiing trails – all within a compact, picturesque setting.
In summer, you walk through dense larch forests, past fragrant flower meadows and beneath the towering peaks of the Sexten Dolomites. In winter, the snow-covered Fischleintal valley is best explored on cross-country skis or during a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride. Once you have visited, you will understand why this place is often called “the most beautiful valley in the world.”
Activities & events in Sexten
Outdoor paradise Sexten: enjoy sports and nature
Whether you’re after a gentle workout or an adrenaline rush: Sexten offers the perfect outdoor experience for every taste.
- Hiking & mountaineering: From leisurely walks to challenging via ferratas – as the gateway to the Three Peaks, Sexten offers a wide range of mountain adventures for all fitness levels.
- Mountain biking: Explore the Sexten valley by mountain bike or tackle the varied trails around Monte Elmo.
- Winter activities: In Sexten, you don’t have to give up hiking in winter. Numerous winter hiking trails let you explore the snowy mountain landscape at your own pace. Do you prefer gliding on skis? Head out onto the region’s extensive cross-country trails or swoosh down the slopes of the nearby 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort.
Experience culture & history in Sexten
Sexten is not just a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also a place steeped in Alpine history. The first ascents of the Sexten Dolomites have made this mountain village a landmark for mountaineers from all over the world.
Are you curious to learn more? At Haus der Berge Visitor Center, you will find both information and inspiration. The entire building symbolises the connection between mountain and valley, bringing the Sexten Dolomites to life right in the heart of the village.
Also worth a visit: Museum Rudolf Stolz and the Bellum Aquilarum open-air museum, located in the architecturally significant village centre. Both offer fascinating insights into the artistic and cultural history of the region.
You might also be interested in
Explore other villages in the Dolomites region
