Sottoguda Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic village in the Dolomites
Table of Contents
Sottoguda
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Latest page update: 25 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Listed as one of the "Borghi Più Belli d'Italia" (Italy's most beautiful villages), Sottoguda is located in the Province of Belluno.
It's situated 58 kilometres from the city of Belluno and around 170 kilometres north west of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. Standing at an elevation of 1,250 metres above sea level, it has a population of 1,328 inhabitants. |
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Discover Sottoguda
Sottoguda is a small, picturesque village located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, situated in the heart of the Dolomite Mountains. It lies approximately 20 kilometres southeast of the town of Alleghe, nestled in the Val Pettorina valley, and is surrounded by towering peaks, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful, natural retreat. The village is known for its traditional Alpine charm, with stone houses and narrow, winding streets that evoke a sense of timeless beauty.
Sottoguda is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. In the winter months, the area becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding, with access to the larger Civetta ski area, known for its extensive slopes and stunning views. In the summer, the nearby trails offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes, including waterfalls and alpine meadows.
Nearby, the town of Alleghe offers additional amenities and is home to a scenic lake, providing a tranquil setting for walking and relaxing. Further to the west, the famous Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park provides an expansive area for outdoor activities, while the town of Selva di Cadore offers a quieter alternative with its traditional architecture and natural beauty. Sottoguda’s combination of tranquillity, natural beauty, and proximity to other Dolomite towns makes it an excellent base for exploring the Veneto region.
Sottoguda is particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. In the winter months, the area becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding, with access to the larger Civetta ski area, known for its extensive slopes and stunning views. In the summer, the nearby trails offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes, including waterfalls and alpine meadows.
Nearby, the town of Alleghe offers additional amenities and is home to a scenic lake, providing a tranquil setting for walking and relaxing. Further to the west, the famous Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park provides an expansive area for outdoor activities, while the town of Selva di Cadore offers a quieter alternative with its traditional architecture and natural beauty. Sottoguda’s combination of tranquillity, natural beauty, and proximity to other Dolomite towns makes it an excellent base for exploring the Veneto region.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Sottoguda
- Serrai di Sottoguda is a narrow gorge carved by glacial and river erosion, stretching for nearly 2 km between Sottoguda and Malga Ciapela. The canyon is lined with sheer rock walls, waterfalls, and chapels carved into the stone. In winter, it is famous for ice climbing, while in warmer months it is accessible via a walking or cycling path.
- Traditional Ladin Architecture defines the village, with wooden barns (tabià), stone houses, and decorative balconies. Sottoguda is officially listed among I Borghi più belli d’Italia and maintains a strong cultural identity, visible in its language, local crafts, and seasonal festivals.
- Chiesa dei Santi Fabiano, Sebastiano e Rocco is the parish church of Sottoguda, built in the 15th century and later modified in Baroque style. The church features a distinctive bell tower, painted interiors, and a carved wooden altar. It stands at the edge of the village and remains active throughout the year.
- Craft Workshops and Ironwork Studios are found throughout the village, showcasing local traditions in wrought iron and wood carving. Several family-run ateliers are open to visitors, offering handmade lanterns, gates, and decorative items. These crafts reflect the area’s long-standing artisanal heritage.
- Access to Marmolada and Mountain Routes is available via Malga Ciapela, a short distance from Sottoguda. The cable car to Punta Rocca provides views of the Marmolada Glacier and connects to high-altitude hiking and skiing areas. Trails from the village also lead to alpine huts and panoramic routes in the Dolomiti Bellunesi.
Sottoguda Tours and Activities
Sottoguda - frazione di Rocca Pietore
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Comune: Rocca Pietore
Province: Belluno Region: Veneto Elevation: 1,250 metres Close by: Alleghe, Livinallongo del Col di Lana, Arabba, Cortina Recommended stay: Hotel La Maison Wellness & Spa (14 km) |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: L'ultimo Villaggio della Valle (The Last Village in the Valley)
Listing headline: L'ultimo Villaggio della Valle (The Last Village in the Valley)
Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
