San Martino di Castrozza: trekking and climbing on Pale mountains, in the Italian Alps

Where to find it

We are at 1450 metres above sea level, in the heart of the Paneveggio - Pale di San Martino Nature Park. The town has about 500 inhabitants, and is part of the municipality of Primiero San Martino di Castrozza, in the Alta Valle del Primiero. Discovered in the Nineteenth century by English and German mountaineers, enchanted by the majestic spectacle of the Pala Group, which turns pink every day at sunset, San Martino di Castrozza is a small Alpine town that has inspired artists like Arthur Schnitzler and Richard Strauss, and today it blends in perfectly with the surrounding countryside, providing a high-altitude holiday with all the comforts and services found in the town.

What to do

If you love the Dolomites in summer, in San Martino di Castrozza you can practise mountaineering, climbing on the many rock cliffs, mountain biking and hiking along the trails that start in the town and head for the nature reserve, like the one that leads to Passo Rolle. Furthermore, you can follow the routes of the Agility Forest Adventure Park and the Bike Arena, and have fun with your kids in the fun play areas.

In addition, you can try to climb onto the Pala Plateau, with the ski lift facilities that are open even in the summer season, and from up there you can see the entire valley at your feet.

On the other hand, if you prefer coming in winter, skiing opportunities await: for the youngest visitors, there are many skiing courses held by professional instructors, and the mini clubs on the snow. For the adults, long snow-covered slopes (even lit at night), beaten tracks for snowshoe walks, and cross-country skiing trails. And if you like snowboarding, there are 3 snow parks: San Martino SnowPark in Tognola, the SnowPark Colverde and Rolle Railz Park.

Finally, for those in search of a relaxing holiday, the SPAs and wellness centres of the many hotels in the town centre await you all year round, together with the craft boutiques, shops and typical restaurants.

How to get there

If you are travelling by car, on Motorway A22 you exit at Trento Sud and travel 110 kilometres in the direction of Cismon del Grappa, Arten, Primiero and San Martino. Those arriving from the A13 exit at Padova Ovest and then continue towards Cismon del Grappa, Arten, Primiero and San Martino - covering about 130 kilometres.

If you are travelling by train, you can stop at the stations of Feltre, Trento, or Ora, and from there by bus with the Trentino Trasporti service to San Martino di Castrozza.

FAQ: San Martino di Castrozza

What to do in San Martino di Castrozza if you don't ski?

You can join a guided snowshoeing excursion, walk along winter trails, or spend a few hours relaxing at a spa facility. Nearby, head to Mezzano for a stroll among the *Cataste & Canzèi*—artistic installations created from stacked firewood. For snow-based activities, be sure to check the weather, conditions, and excursion schedule.

What is there to do in San Martino di Castrozza with children?

You can head to Paneveggio and walk the Marciò Trail, which starts at the visitor center; the deer enclosure is also located in the area. Alternatively, for a walk starting from San Martino, consider the forest path leading to Malga Crel. Choose the duration and elevation gain based on the children's ages and their experience with walking.

How do you get to the Pale di San Martino from San Martino di Castrozza?

To reach the Pale di San Martino, start at the Colverde–Rosetta lift facilities near the town center. The Colverde gondola ascends to the refuge of the same name. From there, the Rosetta cable car takes you up to the plateau, where you can continue on to the Rifugio Pedrotti alla Rosetta. Check the schedules and choose your routes based on weather conditions, your experience level, and your equipment.

Which parks can I reach from San Martino di Castrozza?

For nature excursions, the Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Nature Park is the place to go. You can explore the Paneveggio Forest or head to Val Canali. There are also parks dedicated to specific activities: Agility Forest offers adventure courses, while the San Martino Bike Arena is dedicated to downhill biking and requires technical skill and protective gear.

What activities are there to do in the evening in San Martino di Castrozza?

In the evening, you can stop at the village restaurants. Be sure to try the *tosèla* cheese with polenta. In winter, check the schedule for moonlight snowshoeing outings and any evening openings of the Colverde slope, which is equipped for night skiing. Verify dates, conditions, and booking details before planning your evening.

Which trails start from San Martino di Castrozza?

From the village, you can follow the forest road to Malga Crel, passing near the Prà delle Nasse Biotope. For a longer hike, the route to Lake Calaita winds through the woods and reaches Forcella Calaita. The Park Authority estimates about three hours for the outward journey alone; be sure to factor in the return trip and check trail conditions.

What to see in San Martino di Castrozza in one day?

In summer, when the weather is good and the lifts are open, we suggest spending the morning on the Pale Plateau. Take the Colverde–Rosetta lift up to admire the peaks of this Dolomite group, and plan your descent around the lifts' last run of the day. In the afternoon, head back to the village for a stroll through the town center and a stop at one of the local spots.