Prato Piazza Dolomites
An expansive, impossibly perfect alpine meadow at 2000m, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites. Less crowded than Alpe di Siusi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Lush meadows, fewer crowds
Prato Piazza Dolomites
Best Time
Lush meadows, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An expansive, impossibly perfect alpine meadow at 2000m, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites. Less crowded than Alpe di Siusi.
"Amazing alpine meadow, a must-see, particularly if you like mountains but don't want to hike anywhere too steep."
🚗 Parking Fees
Driving incurs parking fees. Consider the bus for a cheaper, more convenient experience, especially if not aiming for sunrise/sunset shots.
🥾 Hike to Monte Specie
The trail to Strudelkopf (Monte Specie) is family-friendly and offers incredible 360° views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vast Alpine Meadow
Prato Piazza Plateau
An expansive, impossibly perfect alpine meadow at 2000m, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Less crowded than Alpe di Siusi.
Strudelkopf (Monte Specie)
Summit accessible from Prato Piazza
A family-friendly hike rewarding with 360° views of iconic peaks like Tre Cime and Monte Cristallo.
Alpine Pastures & Cows
Various trails from Prato Piazza
Wander through charming pastures dotted with grazing cows, enjoying enchanting views of meadows and valleys.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Driving incurs parking fees. Consider the bus for a cheaper, more convenient experience, especially if not aiming for sunrise/sunset shots.
🥾 Hike to Monte Specie
The trail to Strudelkopf (Monte Specie) is family-friendly and offers incredible 360° views.
🐄 Encounter Grazing Cows
Follow trails like #40 to experience charming alpine pastures filled with grazing cows.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Prato Piazza is a photographer's dream, especially during autumn with colorful trees and fog. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Driving incurs parking fees. Consider the bus for a cheaper, more convenient experience, especially if not aiming for sunrise/sunset shots.
🥾 Hike to Monte Specie
The trail to Strudelkopf (Monte Specie) is family-friendly and offers incredible 360° views.
🐄 Encounter Grazing Cows
Follow trails like #40 to experience charming alpine pastures filled with grazing cows.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Prato Piazza is a photographer's dream, especially during autumn with colorful trees and fog. +1
🚴 E-bike Loop Option
Consider the e-bike loop for a scenic tour, including Prato Piazza and views of Tre Cime.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Prato Piazza's stunning alpine meadow, calling it a must-see for its accessible beauty and breathtaking mountain views. Many appreciate the gentle trails and the opportunity to see grazing cows. While parking fees can be a drawback for drivers, the convenient bus service is a popular alternative.
"Alpine Meadow with great views and cattle grazing."
acasserole
"Amazing alpine meadow, set in the heart of the Dolomites. A must see, particularly if you like the mountains but don't want to hike anywhere too steep."
Nick
"Very beautiful place. Accessible by bus included in the mobilcard. If you drive you'll have to pay the parking fees, so unless you want to do a very long hike or want to take sunset/sunrise pictures, it is cheaper and more convenient to use the bus. We followed trail 40 which crosses alpine pastures. Saw a lot of cows!"
Ghaida Azzahra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Prato Piazza by car, but be aware of parking fees. Alternatively, a convenient bus service is available, often included with a Mobilcard, making it a more economical and eco-friendly choice.
Yes, public buses are a popular and convenient way to access Prato Piazza, especially if you have a Mobilcard. This avoids parking fees and reduces congestion.
From towns like Braies or Carbonin, you can drive or take a bus. The bus is often recommended for its convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Road access can vary seasonally. During winter, it might be more challenging or require specific vehicles. Always check local conditions before driving.
Yes, you can drive to Prato Piazza, but there are parking fees. Many visitors find using the bus service more practical and cost-effective.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Prato Piazza plateau itself is generally free. However, if you drive, you will need to pay for parking.
Prato Piazza is an open natural area and is accessible year-round. However, facilities like visitor centers or specific trails might have seasonal hours.
There are no entrance fees for the plateau itself. Parking fees apply if you arrive by car.
While accessible anytime, visiting in the morning or late afternoon offers beautiful light for photography and potentially fewer crowds.
Yes, a Mobilcard is highly recommended as it often covers bus transport to Prato Piazza, making your visit more economical and convenient.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy hiking on various trails, including the family-friendly route to Monte Specie for panoramic views. You can also explore alpine pastures, observe grazing cows, and enjoy the stunning scenery. +1
Absolutely! The plateau offers gentle terrain, and the hike to Monte Specie is considered family-friendly, making it a great destination for all ages. 
Expect breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of iconic Dolomite peaks like Tre Cime, Monte Cristallo, and the Cadini group.
Yes, there are rifugios (mountain huts) and restaurants on or near Prato Piazza where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. +1
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring sun protection and a waterproof jacket.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire plateau offers stunning vistas. For iconic shots, aim for the summit of Monte Specie for panoramic views, or capture the rolling meadows with grazing cows.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides magical light. However, the dramatic landscapes are beautiful throughout the day.
It's ideal for landscape photography, capturing alpine meadows, dramatic mountain peaks, and the changing seasons. It's also a popular spot for elopement photography.
Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for fog or sudden rain. The vastness of the plateau means you can find unique compositions.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in the Dolomites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing a stroller or carrier for younger children if they tire easily, though the main plateau is quite manageable. The presence of grazing cows can also be a fascinating sight for kids. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The hike to Monte Specie provides a dramatic backdrop for landscape shots, capturing iconic peaks like the Tre Cime. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as fog and dramatic skies can add to the photographic appeal. Consider visiting in autumn for vibrant foliage and atmospheric conditions. 🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Explore the numerous paths that wind through alpine pastures, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Prato Piazza: A Photographer's Paradise
+1For those seeking more dramatic perspectives, the hike to Strudelkopf (Monte Specie) is highly recommended. This family-friendly trail leads to a summit offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of iconic Dolomite landmarks such as the Tre Cime (Three Peaks), Monte Cristallo, and the Cadini group.
Capturing these expansive landscapes requires attention to light; the golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and flattering illumination, transforming the already stunning scenery into something truly ethereal. Beyond the grand vistas, don't overlook the smaller details. The wildflowers in summer, the textures of the alpine grass, and the silhouettes of the mountains against the sky all contribute to the photographic richness of Prato Piazza. Whether you're an experienced landscape photographer or simply enjoy capturing beautiful moments, Prato Piazza offers endless opportunities to create stunning imagery.
Hiking and Activities at Prato Piazza
The most popular hike from Prato Piazza is to Strudelkopf (Monte Specie). This relatively accessible trail leads to a summit at 2,307 meters, rewarding hikers with unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding Dolomite giants, including the famous Tre Cime. The trail is often described as family-friendly, making it an excellent option for those traveling with children.
For those looking for alternative ways to explore, e-biking is also a fantastic option. There are well-regarded e-bike loops that can take you through Prato Piazza and to other scenic spots, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Whether you're looking for a strenuous climb or a relaxed walk, Prato Piazza offers an unforgettable outdoor experience amidst some of Italy's most spectacular mountain scenery.Getting to and Around Prato Piazza
The bus system provides a stress-free way to reach the plateau, allowing you to focus on the stunning scenery rather than worrying about parking availability or costs. This method also contributes to reducing traffic congestion in the sensitive alpine environment.
For those who do choose to drive, be prepared for potential parking fees and consider the timing of your arrival to potentially find better spots. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the journey itself offers glimpses of the magnificent Dolomite landscape, setting the stage for the beauty that awaits at Prato Piazza. 
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