(Updated for 2026)

If your dream wedding involves saying “I do” surrounded by towering mountains and lush alpine meadows, then a Seceda elopement in the Dolomites might just be your perfect destination. Imagine exchanging vows with those stunning jagged peaks as your backdrop, then heading off for a hike through wildflower-filled meadows, followed by a celebratory meal (with a view!) at a rifugio, and the sound of alpine cowbells echoing throughout the landscape.

Does it get any better than that?

However, I will also mention that due to Seceda’s rapidly increasing popularity with tourists, there are a few essential guidelines / suggestions to follow when choosing this location for your elopement day. But more on that later!

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your Seceda elopement - from how to get there, to the best spots to have your ceremony, and some must-know tips to consider. By the end, you’ll be ready to make your dream elopement a reality at one of the most iconic locations in the Italian Alps. Let’s go!

Where Is Seceda?

Seceda is a mountain in the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy, sitting at just about 8,200 feet (2,500 meters). It’s most famous for its dramatic jagged peaks paired with those soft, sloping green meadows that make this place feel almost unreal.

It’s located in Val Gardena, just above the town of Ortisei (a great town to base yourselves out of). And while it’s surprisingly easy to access, it truly feels like a completely different world once you’re up there.

Map of Seceda

How to Get to Seceda in the Dolomites

Getting to Seceda for your elopement day is actually quite simple! Here are the 3 main ways to reach this mountaintop location. Full disclaimer: the “easiest” option is of course the most popular, so if you’re looking for an incredibly private experience for your elopement day, it would be best to choose the second or third option.

1. Gondola and Cable Car From Ortisei *Easiest

The most popular (and shortest) way to reach Seceda is by gondola and cable car, departing from the town of Ortisei. This is a two-part journey, which is combined into one ticket. On ticket websites, the route will look like this: Ortisei - Furnes - Seceda. The entire two-part ride is around 15 minutes.

First: hop on the gondola from the town of Ortisei. These gondolas are exactly what you would see at a ski resort, with seating for just a few passengers.

Next: when the gondola drops you off halfway up, transfer directly to the cable car for a quick ride to the top of Seceda. Make sure to keep your tickets handy, since you'll need to scan them again to board the cable car.

Operating Times: Typically runs June through early November (for the summer/fall season). The hours usually range between roughly 8:30 AM to 5 PM, but make sure to double-check the times on their website based on the season.
Price: €74 per person for a round-trip journey. Or alternatively, €49 for only uphill, and €49 for only downhill.
Pro Tip: Get there early in the morning for fewer crowds (catch the first gondola of the day), or ride up the gondola late in the afternoon to catch evening golden hour (with the option to hike all the way back down, if you stay past the gondola closing time for sunset).

If you are looking for quick and easy access to the stunning Seceda views, this is likely your best choice! However, a few downsides with this option include:

It is impossible to use this route to catch golden hour lighting, since gondola operating hours are limited
This is by far the most popular method of reaching Seceda, so you will be standing in line with heaps of tourists. Yes, even on a random Wednesday morning in off-peak months.

2. Hike from the top of the Col Raiser gondola

For couples who love hiking, starting your day with a scenic trek to the summit can both add that extra layer of adventure to your elopement, and help you avoid the crowds of the main gondola from Ortisei.

The Col Raiser gondola departs from the town of Selva di Val Gardena (just down the road from Ortisei) and carries you up to roughly the halfway point. From here, you have two options:

You can hike the rest of the way up, which gives you access to many off-the-beaten-path viewpoints that most daytrippers will never see!
Or alternatively, you can hop on the Fermeda chairlift, which starts from right around the corner of the Col Raiser top station. The Fermeda chairlift has more limited opening dates and hours than the Col Raiser gondola, so very intentional date planning is required.

3. Helicopter Elopement in the Dolomites

For those who want to avoid crowds entirely and catch that incredible golden hour light on the mountains, consider a helicopter elopement to Seceda! Amazingly, helicopters can land right at the top of the ridgeline.

Elikos Helicopter Service (based just outside of Ortisei) offers flights that can land right behind the charming Baita Sofie Hütte on top of Seceda. Not only will this save time, but it will also give you the ultimate adventure experience and “wow factor” as you fly over the Dolomites. I can attest - seeing the Dolomites from above is nearly impossible to beat.

One of the biggest perks to opting for a helicopter landing on Seceda is the ability to visit the Seceda Ridgeline before/after the gondola open hours. That means zero people. Just you, your favorite person, and the mountains. How epic is that?

Price: Ranges depending on the route and services, but starting around €2,000.

>> For more detailed information about getting to Seceda, you can also head over to this guide on my separate travel blog: How to Visit the Seceda Ridgeline in the Dolomites

Seceda Elopement Locations

Here are a few of the most stunning location options on Seceda for tying the knot:

1. Upper Viewpoints of the Fermeda Towers

For that truly iconic backdrop, therugged Fermeda Towers are probably what you've been envisioning! It's one of the most photographed areas in the Dolomites (for good reason), and this epic view is perfect for saying “I do” while standing above the clouds. You can walk along the Seceda Ridgeline to get various vantage points of the jagged peaks.

Important note: there are many fences that have been put up in recent years to protect the land from overtourism. Please do not hop the fences!

2. Grassy Meadows

Soft green meadows sprinkled with wildflowers are the quintessential romantic, intimate space for your ceremony. This setting is ideal if you want a more whimsical vibe with rolling, endless landscapes.

Of course, you don't have to choose between the upper viewpoints or the grassy meadows. Everything on Seceda is just a short walk away, so you can easily explore (almost) all of it on your elopement day.

3. Twin Peaks of Pieralongia

This spot is tucked away from the crowds, so it’s perfect for a quieter experience. The short hike to Pieralongia is just as beautiful as the destination itself, winding through vibrant pastures and past rocky scenery. At the end of the trail, you’ll be greeted by the striking pointed rock formation. Plus, you can also stop by the Pieralongia Hut along the way for a treat - think homemade pastries and local snacks.

Pro Tip: Your local Dolomites elopement photographer (hi 👋) will know all of the best spots (plus some hidden gems), and when the lighting is ideal for each location.

Where to Celebrate on Seceda Mountain

Don't skimp on the celebration - you're in Italy, after all! Whether you’re toasting with prosecco or enjoying a romantic meal overlooking the Alps, here are your options right on the top of Seceda:

1. Mountain Hut (Rifugio)

Baita Sofie Hütte – Famous for its gorgeous terrace and delicious menu featuring local specialties. Located just a short walk from the summit cable car station.
Baita Troier Hütte – A cozy, rustic option slightly further from the busiest area of Seceda, with hearty local cuisine and jaw-dropping views.

2. Picnic in the Meadows

For a private, laid-back celebration, pack a gourmet picnic basket with champagne, charcuterie, fresh fruit and pastries from a local Ortisei bakery.

Tips for Getting Married at Seceda

Permits/Legal Requirements: No special permits are required for elopements on Seceda.
Season and Weather: Summer and early autumn (June to October) give you the best weather and lush landscapes. Keep in mind that the cable car is seasonal! Summer season dates are usually from late May through early November. I typically recommend avoiding August, since this is the busiest month for travel.
Time of Day: Early mornings and evenings are best for stunning photos and fewer tourists. Morning lighting tends to be the very best on top of Seceda. Gondola hours will slightly impact this, but there are workarounds, like hiking up or taking a helicopter flight. (PS. No matter what - when in doubt, always avoid weekends).
Fences: Be extra mindful of fenced-off areas to protect the landscape from over-tourism.
Hire Local Vendors: Choose vendors (like me, your Dolomites photographer!) who know the area well for a smoother planning experience. I also have a full list of local vendor recommendations, if we work together.

Where to Stay Near Seceda

Staying in the little valley town of Ortisei, the gateway to Seceda, is a perfect choice for easy access. Plus, Ortisei is ridiculously charming and has tons of lovely restaurants / shops to enjoy. Here are some of the best Ortisei accommodations to stay at during your elopement trip:

5 ⭐ Hotels

4 ⭐ Hotels

3 ⭐ Hotels

Airbnbs / VRBOs: There are several private rental homes in and around Ortisei, including apartments, chalets, or even cabins nestled in nature.

*Looking down on the pedestrian street in Ortisei*

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seceda accessible year-round?

No, Seceda is primarily accessible during summer, autumn, and then again for the winter ski season.

How much does it cost to elope at Seceda?

Costs vary, but budget for gondola rides (€74 per person for a round-trip journey), photographer fees (~$5000+), and any additional services like florists or hair & makeup.

Can I bring guests for my Seceda elopement?

Yes! Seceda is ideal for intimate elopements, since it's very easily accessible by gondola. You can definitely invite a small number of guests to join the adventure - no strenuous hiking required.

Do I need a permit to get married on Seceda?

No, you don’t need a permit to get married at Seceda! That’s part of what makes it such an amazing spot for eloping couples. Just remember to respect the area and follow Leave No Trace rules so that this gorgeous destination can remain as beautiful as it is today.

Whether you’re saying your vows with the Fermeda Towers in the background, sharing a mountaintop meal at a cozy rifugio, or just taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Dolomites, a Seceda elopement is nothing short of magical.

Follow this guide to start planning your perfect wedding or elopement at Seceda in the Dolomites, and when you're ready to bring the vision to life, get in touch to inquire about your elopement date!

Read the full guide: Best Places to Elope in the Dolomites, Italy

How to Plan a Seceda Elopement in the Dolomites (2026 Guide)