A walk in the Dolomites: Picco di Vallandro and Prato Piazza

One of the most popular trips for families and hikers visiting Val Pusteria is a specific peak located in the Braies Dolomites at 2,839 meters. Picco di Vallandro is a fairly easy route to climb and offers an incredible panorama of the Dolomites. And for the return? Let's stop to enjoy some peace in Prato Piazza!
There are 900 meters of altitude difference to climb to reach the Picco di Vallandro, but the route is much loved by families because, despite a little effort, you can reach the top without too much difficulty: it is one of the most beautiful Dolomite peaks as far as the panorama that can be enjoyed from the summit. Starting from Prato Piazza (1,990 m asl) the hike to the summit is relatively short, given that the summit is 2,839 m high.
As you go up, you see the splendid profile of the Croda Rossa begin, the highest of the Braies Dolomites, while looking down we find an expanse of pastures in all their magnificence. The path continues rapidly upwards also thanks to a well-marked path with small and comfortable stairs.
On our way to the top we will cross a short exposed section equipped with metal chains, which accompanies us to the top where we dominate the valley: the Sesto Dolomites, the three Cime di Lavaredo, and the other splendid peaks of the valley.
Going down, it is mandatory to stop and enjoy the energy of Prato Piazza: at almost 2000 m a.s.l. offers a breathtaking view immersed in a quiet difficult to find elsewhere. Prato Piazza is annexed to the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park, and is a panoramic terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The advice is to find a small piece of lawn where you can lie down, close your eyes, and feel all the beauty of nature around us.
Prato Piazza is a place worth living in all seasons: in summer it is a destination for hiking, climbing, cycling and Nordic walking. In winter it becomes a splendid expanse of snow where you can practice mountaineering skis or walk with snowshoes. But it is also the place for cross-country skiing and a destination for national teams that train to win their medal.