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.

Does it get any better than that?!

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 essential tips to consider. By the end, you’ll be ready to make your dream elopement a reality at one of the most breathtaking locations in the Italian Alps. Let’s dive in!

Where Is Seceda?

Seceda is a mountain located within the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy. Rising to an elevation of nearly 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), it's famous for its iconic jagged peaks and sloping green meadows.

Situated in Val Gardena, just above the charming town of Ortisei, Seceda is very easily accessible yet feels like a world away.

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:

1. Gondola and Cable Car From Ortisei *Easiest

The most popular and hassle-free way to reach Seceda is by gondola and cable car, departing from the town of Ortisei. (Google Maps link for the station)

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 15-20 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: €45 for a round-trip ticket, or €33 for one way.
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 (and then hike back down / stay overnight in a rifugio).

2. Hike from Val Gardena

For couples who love hiking, starting your day with a scenic trek to the summit can add an extra layer of adventure to your elopement. From Val Gardena, you'll find several trails that wind their way up to Seceda, offering epic views along the way.

This trail is probably the most popular route, which departs from Santa Cristina Valgardena (neighboring town to Ortisei).

Pro tip: To shorten your hike and make the journey easier, you can take the Col Raiser gondola to the halfway point on this trail, and then continue hiking up to the Seceda Ridgeline.

3. Helicopter Elopement in the Dolomites

For those who want to avoid crowds entirely, consider a helicopter elopement to Seceda! 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 "wow" factor as you fly over the Dolomites.

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. A sunrise or sunset ceremony on Seceda with absolutely no other visitors around? Yes, please!

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

>> For more info about getting to Seceda, head over to this guide on my 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, the rugged 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.

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 rugged rocky paths. 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 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) offer the most pleasant 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!
Fences: Be mindful of fenced-off areas to protect the landscape from over-tourism.
Hire Local Vendors: Choose photographers (that's me!), florists, and planners who know the area well for a smoother experience. I also have a full list of local vendor recommendations, if we work together.

Where to Stay Near Seceda

Staying in the charming town of Ortisei, the gateway to Seceda, is a great choice for easy access and a relaxing escape. Here are some of the best places to stay during your elopement trip:

5 ⭐ Hotels

4 ⭐ Hotels

3 ⭐ Hotels

Airbnbs / VRBOs: For a more homey and secluded option, 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 the winter ski season.

How much does it cost to elope at Seceda?

Costs vary, but budget for gondola rides (€45 per person for a round-trip ticket), photographer fees (~€4000+), 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 (2025 Guide)