Sellaronda Strategy: Clockwise (Orange) or Counter-Clockwise (Green)?

The Sellaronda is the most famous ski loop in the Dolomites, but for first-timers, it often comes with a moment of panic at the breakfast table: “Orange or Green? Which one is better?”

While both routes cover roughly 40km and take about the same time, they offer distinctly different experiences. Here is the strategic breakdown to help you choose.

The “Golden Rules” Before You Start

Before debating the color, you must respect the mountain’s timeline. The Sellaronda is a long day, and getting stuck in the wrong valley after the lifts close is an expensive taxi ride home.

The “Cinderella” Deadline

You must be at the last mountain pass by 15:30. Most lifts connecting the valleys close between 16:00 and 16:30. If you are not at the top of the final pass by 15:30, you risk being stranded.

Option A: The Orange Route (Clockwise)

The Vibe: Sporty, Sun-Chaser, energetic.

The Orange route follows the sun from East to West. This means you are generally skiing on sun-softened snow for a larger part of the day.

• Signs: Distinctive Orange arrows.
• Start from Selva: You begin with the Dantercepies gondola.
• Terrain: Generally considered slightly “sportier.” There are fewer lift connections and slightly more time spent actually skiing compared to the Green route.
• Visual Highlight: The descent from Arabba facing the Marmolada Glacier is spectacular.

Gondola

Dantercepies Gondola

Standard

Selva

Option B: The Green Route (Counter-Clockwise)

The Vibe: Panoramic, Scenic, slightly more relaxed.

The Green route goes against the sun. It is technically very similar in difficulty, but feels slightly more “stop-and-go” due to a few more lift connections.

• Signs: Distinctive Green arrows.
• Start from Selva: You begin with the Ciampinoi gondola.
• Terrain: Offers slightly wider cruising runs in many sections.
• Visual Highlight: The immediate entry into the “City of Stones” (Sassolungo Group) right after leaving Selva is one of the most iconic landscapes in the region.

Gondola

Ciampinoi Gondola

Standard

Selva

Strategic Advice: Which one for you?

Choose Orange if:

• You prefer staying in the sun.
• You dislike taking your skis off (fewer gondolas, more chairlifts/slopes).
• You want to tackle the famous “Porta Vescovo” moguls in Arabba (optional, but part of the flow).

Choose Green if:

• You want a slightly more relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery.
• You want to see the “City of Stones” early in the morning when the light is best.
• You prefer a route that feels slightly less crowded at the pinch points.