Puflatsch/Bullaccia Plateau - Image 1
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Bullaccia Puflatsch Witches' Benches

4.8
·173 reviews·Kastelruth, Italy

Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the iconic Witches' Benches on the Bullaccia plateau, a hiker's paradise with stunning Sciliar vistas.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Puflatsch/Bullaccia Plateau - Image 1

Bullaccia Puflatsch Witches' Benches

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clear skies, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the iconic Witches' Benches on the Bullaccia plateau, a hiker's paradise with stunning Sciliar vistas.

4.8
(173 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful views I have ever seen! The cable car is not necessary if you are in a good shape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety on the panoramic paths.

📸 Capture the Sciliar

The views of the Sciliar are a highlight. Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic photographic opportunities.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Witches' Benches

Witches' Benches

Bullaccia Plateau

Iconic wooden benches offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites and alpine meadows.

Sciliar Views

Sciliar Views

Bullaccia Plateau

Unrivaled vistas of the distinctive Sciliar massif, a truly spectacular sight from this vantage point.

Panoramic Hiking Trails

Panoramic Hiking Trails

Bullaccia Plateau

Well-maintained paths winding through lush meadows, dotted with inviting benches for rest and contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hike

While cable cars offer access, many visitors recommend hiking for the full experience. Be prepared for moderate trails and some steep inclines, especially if aiming for the peak. Good hiking boots are a must for enjoying the panoramic trails and benches.

Capture the Sciliar

The Bullaccia Puflatsch area offers unique perspectives of the Sciliar massif. Plan your visit to catch the best light for photography, as the panoramic views are a major draw for visitors seeking stunning alpine scenery.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety on the panoramic paths. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sciliar

The views of the Sciliar are a highlight. Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic photographic opportunities. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike for the Best Views

Consider hiking up instead of taking the cable car for a more immersive experience and to appreciate the landscape. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

While benches invite lingering, amenities can be sparse. Pack essentials for your hike. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety on the panoramic paths. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sciliar

The views of the Sciliar are a highlight. Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic photographic opportunities. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike for the Best Views

Consider hiking up instead of taking the cable car for a more immersive experience and to appreciate the landscape. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Snacks

While benches invite lingering, amenities can be sparse. Pack essentials for your hike. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning, unparalleled views of the Sciliar and surrounding Dolomites from the Bullaccia Puflatsch plateau. The unique Witches' Benches are a major highlight, offering perfect spots to relax and soak in the scenery. While some find the hike steep, the well-maintained trails and panoramic vistas make it a highly rewarding experience for nature lovers and photographers.

"The “other” side of Seiser Alm is less known - and slightly less scenic - but great nevertheless. It provides a different perspective and the absolute best views of the Sciliar !"

Tony B

"One of the most beautiful views I have ever seen! The cable car is not necessary if you are in a good shape during spring and summer."

itamar erez

"Alpi di Suiss is not to be missed. Worth the cost of the two trams to take the loop trail around the largest Alpine meadow in the Alps. Absolutely gorgeous views for 360'."

Alan Kuhlman

What People Like

Spectacular Sciliar views
Unique Witches' Benches
Panoramic hiking trails

What People Dislike

Steep inclines on some paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access is typically via cable car from Compatsch on the Seiser Alm. Alternatively, for the fit, hiking trails are available directly from the Alpe di Siusi. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Compatsch, which is the main access point for the Seiser Alm cable cars. Reddit

You can reach the Seiser Alm by bus, and then take the cable car to Compatsch, which is the gateway to Bullaccia Puflatsch. Reddit

The Witches' Benches are located on the Bullaccia plateau, accessible via hiking trails from the cable car station or directly from the Alpe di Siusi. Reddit

While not always advertised, local tourist offices or hiking guides may offer tours that include this area. It's worth checking locally. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You will need a ticket for the cable car to reach the Seiser Alm if you are not hiking up. The plateau itself is open access. Reddit

Cable car operating hours vary by season. It's best to check the official Seiser Alm Bahnen website for current schedules. Reddit

No, there are no entrance fees to access the Bullaccia Puflatsch plateau itself. The costs are associated with transportation to the area. Reddit

Yes, purchasing cable car tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time, especially during peak season. Reddit

Cable car prices vary depending on the route and type of ticket (e.g., single ride, day pass). Check the official website for current pricing. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activities include hiking on panoramic trails, enjoying the unique Witches' Benches, and taking in spectacular views of the Sciliar and Dolomites. Reddit

Hiking times vary greatly depending on your chosen route and pace. A loop around the plateau can take 2-4 hours, with steeper climbs to peaks taking longer. Reddit

Some trails are moderate, but the climb to the peak can be steep. Stick to the main plateau trails for easier walks. Reddit

Expect breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Seiser Alm, the Sciliar massif, and the surrounding Dolomite peaks. Reddit

There are limited facilities directly on the plateau. Some mountain huts (Almen) may offer refreshments, but it's wise to be prepared. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Witches' Benches themselves offer iconic photo opportunities. Also, any viewpoint facing the Sciliar or the expansive meadows will yield stunning shots. Reddit

Late afternoon during the golden hour provides beautiful, soft light for landscape photography. Mornings can also be clear and crisp. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the Sciliar. Reddit

The main challenge is the sheer beauty – choosing what to capture! Be mindful of other visitors when composing your shots. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and restrictions before flying a drone in protected natural areas like the Seiser Alm. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bullaccia Puflatsch offers a wonderful outdoor adventure for families, though it requires some preparation. The well-maintained trails on the plateau are generally suitable for children, especially the flatter sections. The novelty of the Witches' Benches can be a fun element for kids, encouraging them to imagine stories and enjoy the unique seating. However, be mindful of the steepness on some paths if you plan to venture further, and ensure children are supervised. Reddit

Packing essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen is crucial, as facilities can be limited. Consider using the cable car for easier access to the plateau, saving energy for exploring the benches and meadows. The open spaces provide room for children to move around, and the stunning scenery is sure to captivate even the youngest visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For dedicated hikers, Bullaccia Puflatsch is a dream destination. The panoramic hiking trails offer a variety of routes, from leisurely strolls to more challenging ascents. The opportunity to hike up from the Alpe di Siusi provides a more immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the gradual unfolding of the landscape. The well-marked paths ensure you can navigate with confidence, while the numerous benches offer perfect spots for rest and reflection. Reddit

Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the alpine meadows and the commanding presence of the Sciliar. The unique Witches' Benches add a whimsical touch to the natural beauty. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, and carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities are sparse. The chance to conquer the 'puffert peak' offers an extra challenge and an unforgettable reward. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Witches' Benches

The Bullaccia Puflatsch Witches' Benches are more than just seating; they are iconic viewpoints designed to immerse visitors in the dramatic alpine scenery. Carved from wood, these unique benches are strategically placed to offer unparalleled perspectives of the surrounding peaks, most notably the majestic Sciliar. Visitors often describe the experience as deeply peaceful, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation amidst the grandeur of the Dolomites. The benches themselves have become a symbol of the plateau, drawing photographers and nature lovers alike. Reddit

These benches are a testament to how the area has embraced its natural beauty and created a memorable experience for hikers. The simple yet profound design encourages visitors to pause, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and truly appreciate the vastness of the landscape. It's a place where the connection to nature feels palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Seiser Alm. Reddit

Hiking and Trail Experiences

The Bullaccia Puflatsch plateau is a hiker's paradise, offering a network of well-maintained trails that cater to various fitness levels. While some visitors opt for the convenience of the cable car, many reviewers emphasize the rewarding experience of hiking up from the Alpe di Siusi. The trails wind through lush green meadows, offering constant visual delights and opportunities to spot local flora and fauna. The paths are generally clear, but some sections, particularly those leading to higher peaks, can be quite steep, requiring good physical condition and sturdy footwear. Reddit

One of the most frequently praised aspects of hiking here is the abundance of benches scattered along the routes, inviting hikers to rest and soak in the spectacular panoramic views. These aren't just functional stops; they are integral to the experience, allowing visitors to truly linger and absorb the beauty. The climb to the 'puffert peak' is often mentioned as a challenging but highly rewarding endeavor, promising breathtaking vistas that make the effort worthwhile. Reddit+1

Capturing the Iconic Sciliar

The Sciliar massif is a dominant and awe-inspiring feature of the South Tyrolean landscape, and the Bullaccia Puflatsch area provides some of the most striking viewpoints for capturing its unique silhouette. The distinctive shape of the Sciliar, often described as a gateway to the Dolomites, is a primary draw for photographers. The Witches' Benches on the Bullaccia plateau are perfectly positioned to frame this iconic mountain, offering a sense of scale and grandeur. Reddit

For the best photographic results, timing is key. Visitors recommend visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the mountain and meadows, creating dramatic shadows and highlights. Early mornings can also offer clear, crisp views. The expansive nature of the plateau means that photographers have ample space to find unique angles and compositions, ensuring memorable shots of this natural wonder. Reddit

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