King Laurin Tour at Catinaccio/Rosengarten: A Scenic Family Hike in the Dolomites

The King Laurin Tour is one of the most rewarding panoramic hikes in the South Tyrolean Dolomites. Following the foot of the impressive Catinaccio/Rosengarten mountain range, the route offers magnificent views of both the Rosengarten and the Latemar massif while remaining accessible for families.

Because several lifts are integrated into the tour, only a small amount of elevation must be covered on foot. The result is a varied hiking experience packed with spectacular scenery, without becoming overly strenuous – perfect for kids and parents alike.

Starting the King Laurin Tour in San Cipriano

The adventure begins in San Cipriano (St. Zyprian) in Tires al Catinaccio. A free parking area is located directly opposite the Cyprianerhof hotel beside the valley station of the Cableway Tiers Cabrio.

Even before the hike starts, families are treated to one of the tour’s highlights. The unique Cableway Tiers Cabrio features an open-air rooftop platform accommodating up to ten passengers. Riding above the forests and alpine meadows with the wind in your face feels almost like flying through the Dolomites. From the rooftop deck, you’ll enjoy unforgettable views of the Catinaccio/Rosengarten massif, Val d’Ega/Eggental and the surrounding peaks. Those who prefer to stay inside the cabin can still enjoy magnificent panoramas through the large floor-to-ceiling windows.

Tip: Even in summer, temperatures can feel surprisingly cool and windy on the open rooftop. Bring an extra layer and secure hats and caps carefully.

At the upper station, continue with the Cable Cars König Laurin to reach the mountain station high in the Rosengarten area.

Before setting off on the hike, take a moment to visit the King Laurin’s Crystal Palace, an atmospheric installation illuminated by magical blue-green light. Nearby, Laurins Lounge offers the perfect spot for a coffee break or snack before beginning the walking section of the tour.

Along the Hirzel Trail to Paolina Hut

From the mountain station, follow trail no. 549 towards Paolina Hut (Rifugio Paolina) or simply follow the signs for the King Laurin Tour.

The route follows the scenic Hirzel Trail, a narrow mountain path that requires sure-footedness in some sections. The trail, however, rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Carezza Dolomites area.

Towering rock walls of the Catinaccio rise on the left, while sweeping views of the Latemar massif open up on the right. Along the way, families pass small streams, fascinating rock formations, and rugged landscapes that resemble miniature canyons.

Several wooden benches invite hikers to pause and soak in the stunning mountain scenery. One particularly impressive section runs below the cliffs of the Rotwand before the trail eventually reaches Paolina Hut.

Lunch Break with a View of the Dolomites

Located beside the upper station of the Panoramic Chairlift Paolina, Paolina Hut is the ideal place for a family break. The sunny terrace offers spectacular views of the Latemar massif and surrounding Dolomite peaks. Whether you’re stopping for lunch or simply enjoying coffee and cake, this mountain hut is one of the most scenic rest stops along the route.

After your break, the Panoramic Chairlift Paolina carries you comfortably back down to the valley, where the second stage of the King Laurin Tour begins.

From Lake Carezza Back Towards the Rosengarten

At the valley station of the Paolina lift, you can either continue directly or enjoy another short stop. The nearby bar serves coffee, refreshments and ice cream, while children can enjoy a bouncy castle and climbing rock. From here, continue following the signs for the King Laurin Tour or trail no. 6 towards Lake Carezza (Karer See / Lago di Carezza).

Lake Carezza is one of South Tyrol’s most famous mountain lakes and is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters. On calm days, the jagged peaks of Latemar are perfectly reflected on the lake’s surface, creating one of the most photographed views in the Dolomites.

If younger hikers are already getting tired, you can skip the full lake circuit and simply visit one of the viewpoints. Families with plenty of energy left should definitely take the approximately 20-minute walk around the lake.
The route then continues across the spectacular suspension bridge before rejoining trail no. 6 towards Moseralm and the Chairlift Tschein.

With the Rosengarten constantly in view, this section offers another beautiful opportunity to enjoy the unique Dolomite landscape at a relaxed pace.

Return Journey with the Chairlift Tschein

The Chairlift Tschein takes you comfortably uphill once more. During the ride, the towering walls of the Catinaccio/Rosengarten seem almost close enough to touch.
From the upper station, it’s only a short walk to the middle station of the König Laurin lift system. From there, the Cable Cars König Laurin bring you back to the upper station of the Cableway Tiers Cabrio, which finally returns you to San Cipriano and the starting point of the tour.

Alternative Starting Points

Although San Cipriano is the classic starting point, the King Laurin Tour can also be accessed from Nova Levante (Welschnofen) and Lake Carezza (Karer See).
These alternatives allow families to adapt the route according to their holiday plans and accommodation location.

Family Tips for the King Laurin Tour

• Start early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and plenty of time for breaks, photos and play stops.
• The Hirzel Trail includes narrow sections, so sure-footedness is required for both adults and children.
• The tour is not suitable for strollers.
• For younger children, a baby carrier or sling is often more practical than a large hiking backpack carrier, especially when using the chairlifts.
• Lift staff are very family-friendly and usually slow down the chairlifts during boarding and disembarking when children are present.
• If you plan to ride on the rooftop platform of the Cableway Tiers Cabrio, bring windproof clothing, even on warm summer days.
• On selected dates throughout the summer season, families can benefit from special discounted lift tickets. During the Family Sundays, two adults and two children receive a day pass with unlimited use of all operating lifts in the Carezza Dolomites hiking area for only €45.

Opening Times and Lift Tickets

Current opening times, operating days and ticket prices for all lifts can be found on the official Carezza Dolomites website. The day ticket includes unlimited use of all operating lifts in the hiking area, allowing families to complete the entire King Laurin Tour exactly as described.

Route Map and Tour Overview

The overview map provided by Carezza Dolomites shows the complete King Laurin Tour, including all hiking sections and lift connections, at a glance.
(© Carezza Dolomites, 2026)