If you’re looking for an easy, scenic hike suitable for all seasons, Valle dei Mulini (in Ladin, Val di Morins) is a must-visit destination. Located in the hamlet of Longiarù (Campill), one of the most authentic villages in Val Badia, it’s nestled in a side valley where time seems to have stood still.
Where it is and how to reach Valle dei Mulini (Badia)
The access to Valle dei Mulini starts from the Seres area, which can be reached by car from Longiarù with a short detour. The parking lot is just a few steps from the start of the trail. From here, a themed loop trail begins, following the course of the Rio Seres, passing by ancient farmhouses, green meadows and quiet forests.
The hike follows an easy and well-maintained path of about 1.5 km, making it ideal for families with children, curious hikers, and anyone looking for a relaxing walk amidst nature.
Along the way, you will encounter eight ancient watermills, skillfully restored and perfectly integrated into the landscape. Some of them are visible only from the outside, but one is open to the public and can be visited internally, offering a valuable opportunity to discover how wheat was ground in pre-industrial times.
The trail is enriched with informative panels that clearly and engagingly explain the history, techniques, and cultural significance of these structures, which are a testament to the Ladin farming world.
Those seeking a longer hike can continue towards Rifugio Genova (Schlüterhütte), crossing denser forests and gaining elevation. This route is more challenging, but it offers spectacular views of the Dolomites and can turn the visit to the mills into a full day of trekking.
Who is this hike suitable for?
The trail is easy, flat, and accessible, truly designed for everyone: even for those with little mountain experience or simply those who want to enjoy a leisurely walk. The width of the path, the absence of exposed sections, and the well-maintained surface make it ideal for a family outing, where even children can walk independently and safely.
For the little ones, the presence of the watermills is a true wonder: seeing the blades in motion, discovering how grain was milled in the past, and following the stream becomes a game, a continuous discovery. The educational panels and the opportunity to physically interact with some of the structures turn the hike into a fun, educational experience that sparks curiosity.
But the Valle dei Mulini is also perfect for those looking for a restorative break, away from the more hectic tourism. Here, you walk listening only to the sound of the water, your steps on the leaves, and the wind through the branches. It is a place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with an essential and authentic nature made of wood, stone and water. A walk that doesn’t need great elevation changes to leave an impression: just being there, letting go, and listening to what the valley has to tell.
A place to experience in all seasons
In spring and summer, the Valle dei Mulini comes alive: the flower-filled meadows, the wooden-windowed farmhouses, the sound of the stream, and the cool shade of the forests make the hike especially enjoyable.
In autumn, the golden light and the warm colors of the larches create an intimate and poetic atmosphere. It’s the perfect time for those who love photography, walking among the carpets of leaves, and the shades of foliage.
Even in winter, the Valle dei Mulini retains its charm: under a blanket of snow, the sloping roofs and the mills look like something out of a fairy tale. The trail remains accessible with hiking boots or snowshoes, as long as you’re careful on the icy sections. Walking in this white silence is a magical experience.
