The Falcade Plain (Dolomites)

The Falcade Plain 

The Piana di Falcade: A Gem in the Dolomites

The “Piana di Falcade” is a vast grassy expanse located at the valley bottom of the charming Alpine village of Falcade in the sunny Val Biois, within the Province of Belluno, Veneto Region, in the heart of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This large meadow, once a reserve of arable land for the inhabitants of Falcade, has fortunately escaped the rampant overdevelopment that has affected many other localities in the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. What might appear to be an underutilized space, in fact, proves to be a valuable resource for the town and the entire Val Biois. Not many towns in the Pale Mountains can boast such a significant green area right in the center of town.

Beyond the inherent beauty of the meadow itself, the Piana di Falcade is further enhanced by its striking natural surroundings. The valley floor of Falcade is crossed by the Biois Stream, which adds to the pastoral charm of the place. It’s crowned by a stunning Dolomitic “diadem” formed by the Pale di San Martino (with the prominent peaks of Focobon and Mulaz), the Marmolada Group (Cime d’Auta, Cime di Pezza, Piz Zorlet), Civetta, Pelsa, and Pelmo. This offers a 360-degree view of the Dolomites that few other locations in the Pale Mountains can rival.

While the Piana di Falcade is maintained as a meadow and its natural appearance is preserved by the residents of Falcade, it is far from uncultivated. It’s crisscrossed by beautiful scenic and cycling paths and used for important events. In summer, the area is very popular with families, who can stroll freely both during the day and, thanks to the discreet lighting system, even at night.

The Piana di Falcade also hosts some businesses that operate in full respect of the environment. These include the Nocciolino Amusement Park, a fun play area for Falcade’s young visitors, and the L’Aivaz Restaurant, with its picturesque alpine lake. There are also picnic areas available for guests. Its proximity to the Bar Al Parco, the bocce court, and the skating rink (which becomes a beach volleyball arena in summer) offers even more entertainment options for visitors to the Heart of the Dolomites.

Among the main events held annually in Falcade, either entirely or partially on the Piana di Falcade, is the very famous Se Desmonteghea, the most renowned and well-attended transhumance festival in the Dolomites. Also noteworthy is the inauguration of the winter season, celebrated annually with the lighting of the large Christmas tree and an aperitif offered to all guests of the Dolomites Heart region. In spring, the “El Bon de l’Ansuda” market for typical products also takes place.

In winter, the Piana di Falcade is home to the cross-country ski trails of the famous Pietro Scola Cross-Country Ski Center. This is the jewel in the crown of Dolomite Nordic skiing, a splendid area entirely dedicated to this beloved sport in the Agordino region (with many talents in the Italian National Team). The Falcade Nordic Ski Center is served by the Falcade Nordic Ski School, which offers excellent equipment rental and ski lessons. Municipal sports areas with dedicated showers and changing rooms are also available to users. The Pietro Scola Cross-Country Ski Center also has a lighting system, allowing for night-time Nordic skiing.

Tourist information office: 

Ufficio Turistico di Falcade
Tel. +39 (0)437 599062
proloco.caviola@libero.it

Go to: Natural Attractions in Agordino

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