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Val di Funes Travel Guide
Val di Funes (Villnöß) is one of the most enchanting valleys in the Dolomites, and if you are dreaming of a truly fairytale destination, this is the place to be. Nestled in South Tyrol, Italy, Val di Funes is world-famous for its stunning backdrop of the jagged Odle peaks (Geislergruppe) and its two iconic churches – Santa Maddalena and San Giovanni in Ranui. This quiet, unspoiled valley is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy peaceful hikes, and experience authentic South Tyrolean culture.
Val di Funes consists of three main villages:
Tiso/Teis
San Pietro/St. Peter
Santa Maddalena/St. Magdalena
Fun fact: The Dolomites were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2009, and the Odle peaks inside the Puez-Odle Nature Park are considered among the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
How to Get to Val di Funes
Val di Funes lies between Bolzano and Brixen (Bressanone) in South Tyrol. The closest city is Brixen, just a 30-minute drive away.
By Car
Take the A22 highway and exit at Brixen/Pustertal, then follow the signs toward Villnöß.
From the east, the valley can be reached via the Würz Pass. However, this winding mountain road is not recommended if you dislike serpentine roads or suffer from vertigo.
Parking areas near Santa Maddalena and Ranui are well developed, but during summer months they fill up quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.
By Public Transport
From Brixen, buses (e.g. line 330) run toward Santa Maddalena.
Keep in mind that buses are infrequent – always check the schedule in advance. Timetable here.
Useful Tips for Visiting Val di Funes
Useful Tips
Stay overnight: Spend at least 1–2 nights in Santa Maddalena or San Pietro to truly enjoy the valley. Ready to visit Val di Funes? Browse and book your accommodation here.
Photography: The best light is at sunset, but mornings also offer magical views.
Traffic regulations: In summer, some roads may be restricted – check local updates.
Weather: Conditions change quickly in the Dolomites, so always check the forecast before hiking.
- Webcams: There are three webcams near the valley and at the best vantage points. Val di Funes – webcams
Where to Eat in Val di Funes
The cuisine of Val di Funes blends Alpine traditions with South Tyrolean flavors. Many mountain huts and family-run restaurants serve homemade dishes, often prepared and served by the owners themselves.
Some of the best places include:
Geisler Alm – Famous for its panoramic terrace, speck platters, and cheese dumplings. A must-visit for both food and views.
Gampen Alm – A quieter mountain hut along the Munkel Weg, serving traditional homemade dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
Pitzock (San Pietro) – A stylish yet traditional restaurant offering a refined dining experience in the valley.
Ranuierhof (Ranui) – A charming family restaurant near San Giovanni Church with seasonal dishes made from local ingredients.
Don’t miss South Tyrol’s famous apple strudel or nut cake, best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or refreshing elderflower syrup after a hike.
Val di Funes / Villnößtal map
Best Things to See in Val di Funes
Why Visit Val di Funes?
Val di Funes is not just another Dolomite valley – it’s a place where time slows down. While the Dolomites are filled with world-famous attractions like Tre Cime or Lago di Braies, Val di Funes offers something different: tranquility, authenticity, and landscapes that look straight out of a painting.
Whether you come for hiking, photography, or simply to relax in the fresh mountain air, Val di Funes is one of the most unforgettable destinations in South Tyrol.
Villages in Val di Funes
– Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena) is the most popular base in Val di Funes.
– San Pietro (St. Peter) – The administrative center of Val di Funes, with shops, cafes, and traditional guesthouses. It’s also a great starting point for easy hikes.
– Teis (Tiso) – A sunny hilltop village overlooking Brixen. Known for the Teis Geodes collection displayed at the local Mineral Museum. Nearby, you’ll also find charming chapels and World War I trenches.
Santa Maddalena & The Iconic Churches
The picturesque village of Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena) is the most popular base in the Funes valley. It offers accommodations, restaurants, and the visitor center for the Puez-Odle Nature Park.
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Main Attractions:
St. Magdalena Church (German: Kirche zur Heiligen Magdalena, Italian: La Chiesa di S. Maddalena)
San Giovanni Church in Ranui (German: Kirchlein zum heiligen Johannes von Nepomuk in Ranui, Italian: Chiesetta di San Giovanni a Ranui)
Naturparkhaus Puez-Odle Visitor Center – An interactive museum showcasing the geology, flora, and fauna of the Dolomites. Great for families.
Important! Don’t confuse the two churches! One is located in the middle of a field, the other is above the village.
St. Magdalena Church
A small historic stone church from the 14th century, decorated with baroque elements and frescoes. Accessible only on foot via a short scenic walk.
Address: Frazione Santa Maddalena Alta, 48, 39040 Funes BZ
Walking to the church:
The church can only be reached on foot, so you have to park in the village. After parking, head towards Hotel Tyrol on Kirchweg. Once you have left the hotel and Fallerhof Farm, the church will be visible. The distance from the parking lot to the church is about 1 kilometer.
After visiting the church, it is worth walking further to the famous viewpoint. Just follow the Panoramaweg path.
You can go back on the same path you came from or you can also head towards the village on the S. Maddalena road.
San Giovanni Church in Ranui
Perhaps the most photographed church in the Dolomites, this tiny baroque chapel with its onion-domed bell tower sits in a green meadow with the Odle peaks as its backdrop. Entrance is ticketed, and there’s also a nearby viewing platform.
Viewpoint: there is a built-in viewpoint on the road leading to the chapel. There is a small parking lot about 100 meters in front of it, but there are only a few spaces available. We left the car in St Magdalena city center and walked to the viewpoint.
Address: San Giovanni, 2 , 39040 Funes – Alto Adige
Website: Ranui Hof estate website
Best Hikes in Val di Funes
Val di Funes is a hiking paradise, with trails for all levels. The most popular routes include:
Adolf Munkel Weg – The most famous trail in the valley, running directly at the foot of the Odle peaks.
Distance: 9 km
Elevation gain: 300 m
Duration: 3–4 hours
Geisler Alm Hike – Several trails lead to this scenic hut, offering breathtaking views and delicious South Tyrolean specialties.
Sonnseitenweg – Panoramaweg – A scenic trail from San Pietro with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks.
Need help planning your trip?
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Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
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Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide
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Source: Wandering Linda
Photos: Wandering Linda
Affiliate Program: Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a small commission on sales generated through this website. This doesn’t increase the price of the service, so if you found my post useful, you’re welcome to start your booking from the link above. Thank you very much for your support!
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