Sottoguda: The Venetian Village at the Foot of the Marmolada

In the heart of the Belluno Dolomites, nestled between the majestic walls of Mount Civetta and the Marmolada, lies Sottoguda, a hamlet of Rocca Pietore, awarded the title of One of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy.

Sottoguda (Staguda in Ladin) is a fascinating Dolomite village located in the municipality of Rocca Pietore, at the foot of Piz de Guda, from which it takes its name. Surrounded by a unique natural setting of forests, pastures, and the spectacular Serrai di Sottoguda gorge, the village preserves a strong historical and cultural identity. Its origins date back to 1260, when the area was part of the County of Tyrol, later of Belluno, and finally of the “Magnificent Community of Rocca Bruna.” The village is renowned for its tabièi, traditional wooden barns of Ladin culture, linked to a mountain farming economy. Its proximity to the Marmolada and its authentic architecture make Sottoguda a place rich in history and beauty.

What to See in Sottoguda

Sottoguda, located in the upper Val Pettorina, is the last village before Malga Ciapéla and the Marmolada, in the heart of the Belluno Dolomites. Part of the municipality of Rocca Pietore, its territory stretches from the summit of the Marmolada (Punta Penia, 3,342 m) to Lake Alleghe, including picturesque valleys such as Ombretta, Franzedaz, and Franzei. The first documented traces of the village date back to 1260.

The village is distinguished by its tabièi, ancient wooden barns typical of Ladin culture. Agriculture sustained the community for centuries, today accompanied by the tradition of wrought iron and wood craftsmanship, thanks to local artisans.

Among the historic buildings stands the small Church of Saints Fabian, Sebastian, and Roch, dating to 1486. Just beyond the village begins the Serrai di Sottoguda gorge, a spectacular two-kilometer natural canyon, now a regional park (temporarily closed due to damage from the Vaia storm in 2018). Once a transit route for flocks and agricultural loads, today the gorge is also famous for ice climbing.

The area is the focus of environmental recovery projects, such as summer grazing and a certified wood supply chain. Not to be missed is the Great War Museum at Serauta, the highest in Europe.

Events, Culture, and Traditions

Among the unmissable events in the Dolomites is Alba dalla Regina (“Sunrise from the Queen”), an unforgettable experience on the panoramic terrace at 3,265 meters on the Marmolada. At dawn, the cable car ride through the still-dark peaks offers the vision of the sun rising behind Mount Civetta, painting the summits pink—a magical moment in every season.

In August, the village of Sottoguda comes alive with Il Sabato del Villaggio (Sabeda ite vila), a farmers’ market organized by the Borgo di Sottoguda Association. In two summer events, visitors can discover hidden corners of the village and taste local products directly from producers. On August 15, a charming Ferragosto concert enriches the festive atmosphere of the village.

What to See Around Sottoguda

Sottoguda is an ideal base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites. Just a few kilometers away is the Fedaia Pass with its lake at the foot of the Marmolada.

Nearby, you can also visit Alleghe with its picturesque lake, Caprile, an ancient village rich in history, and Malga Ciapela, the starting point of the cable car to the Marmolada.

Sottoguda is much more than a tourist stop: it is an immersive experience in the truest mountain life.

Cover photo credits: jocaja