While Val Gardena is famous for the Sellaronda, there is a thriving subculture here that prefers two rails to two planks. Tobogganing (sledding) in the Dolomites is not just a children’s pastime—it is a serious winter sport with dedicated lifts, groomed runs, and spectacular alpine views.
The Short Answer
- For Adrenaline: Rasciesa (Ortisei). A dedicated 6km run with 900m vertical drop. Fast, technical, and separate from skiers.
- For Families: Alpe di Siusi. Sunny, wide slopes with gentler gradients. Perfect for toddlers and relaxed cruising.
- For Romance: Night Sledding. Available on specific evenings on Alpe di Siusi (often combined with a hut dinner).
Rasciesa: The 6km Giant
If you only do one run, make it the Rasciesa (Raschötz). Accessible via a modern funicular from Ortisei, this is one of the longest dedicated toboggan runs in South Tyrol.
The Experience: The run is 6 kilometers long and winds through the forest, entirely separated from ski traffic. It starts with a spectacular view of the Sassolungo before diving into the trees. It is technically an “intermediate” run—it picks up speed, but the curves are banked and groomed daily.
Funicular Resciesa
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At the valley station rental shop, ask for a “Sport Sled” (aluminum or flexible wood) rather than a rigid traditional Davoser. Sport sleds steer by leaning and pulling a strap, offering much better control on the icy corners of Rasciesa.
Alpe di Siusi: Scenic & Sunny
For a relaxed day, take the red gondola (Mont Sëuc) from Ortisei to Alpe di Siusi. The plateau offers several runs, most notably the Icaro and Bullaccia.
The Vibe: Unlike the forest-enclosed Rasciesa, these runs are wide open and bathed in sunlight. You are sharing the landscape (though not the lane) with winter hikers and cross-country skiers. It is the best spot for a mixed group to meet for lunch at a mountain hut.
Alpe Di Siusi Gondola (Mont Sëuc)
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Night Tobogganing
A unique experience in Val Gardena is sledding under the full moon. While schedules change seasonally, the Alpe di Siusi often hosts “Moonlight Sledding” where the lifts run in the evening, and mountain huts serve fondue dinners before you sled down.
Check the local tourism office for the specific “Moonlight” dates during your stay.
Safety & Equipment
Never sled in ski boots. They are dangerous and offer zero ankle flexibility for braking. You must wear sturdy, waterproof winter hiking boots with a good grip profile. If you don’t have them, rent them. Helmets are mandatory for children (under 18 in many areas) and highly recommended for adults.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Rasciesa (Raschötz) | Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | ~6.0 km | 1.5 - 2.0 km tracks |
| Difficulty | Sporty / Fast | Easy / Scenic |
| Separation | 100% Dedicated Track | Near Ski Slopes |
| Access | Funicular (No hiking) | Gondola (No hiking) |
| Best For | Thrill-seekers | Families & Sun lovers |
Our Recommendation
For a full half-day adventure, head to Rasciesa. The funicular ride alone is worth the trip, and the long descent feels like a genuine journey rather than a quick loop.
For families with small children, stick to Alpe di Siusi or the Monte Pana area in Santa Cristina. The runs are forgiving, and if the kids get tired, you are steps away from sunny terraces and hot chocolate.
Local Insider Tip: If you are tackling Rasciesa, wear ski goggles instead of sunglasses. The run is long, and the snow spray from braking can blind you. Goggles protect your eyes and keep your face warm in the shady forest sections.
