Plan de Corones — or Kronplatz, as it is known in German — is one of the most iconic mountains in South Tyrol. Standing at 2,275 metres, its summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama across the Dolomites: from the Zillertal Alps to the Odle Group, from the Marmolada to Sass de Putia. But Plan de Corones is far more than a viewpoint. It is a place where culture, sport and adventure meet in every season.
If you are planning a visit to San Vigilio di Marebbe, Plan de Corones is just 20 minutes by car — and it is an experience you simply cannot miss. Here is everything you need to know.
Summer at Plan de Corones: Culture and Trails
In summer, Plan de Corones transforms into a paradise for hikers and lovers of alpine culture. The cable car from San Vigilio (Ried gondola) takes you to the top in roughly 15 minutes, and from up there the possibilities are endless.
Messner Mountain Museum Corones
The MMM Corones is the sixth and final museum in the chain created by Reinhold Messner, the legendary South Tyrolean mountaineer. Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, the museum is literally embedded in the mountain summit, with panoramic windows that frame the Dolomites like works of art.
The museum's theme is the history of traditional mountaineering: the vertical walls, the great mountain faces, the pioneers who conquered them. It is an experience that unites architecture, culture and landscape in a way that is unique in the world.
Visit MMM Corones right when it opens (10:00) to avoid the crowds. The entrance fee is included in many South Tyrol tourist cards such as the Holidaypass. Allow at least 1 hour for the full visit.
The Panoramic Platform
Next to the museum, the Plan de Corones panoramic platform juts out into thin air offering one of the most spectacular views in the Alps. From here you can simultaneously see the Dolomites to the south, the Zillertal Alps to the north and the Puster Valley stretching out below. Perfect for unforgettable photographs — and for understanding why the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hiking from the Summit
Several trails suitable for all levels depart from the top of Plan de Corones:
- Summit panoramic trail (easy, 1 hour): a loop around the peak with views in every direction. Ideal for families and those who want to enjoy the scenery without too much effort.
- Trail to Rifugio Fodara Vedla (moderate, 4-5 hours): descend into the heart of the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, through forests and plateaus. A hike worth an entire day.
- Alpine wildflower trail (easy, 2 hours): in June and July, the meadows below the summit burst with colour — gentians, rhododendrons and edelweiss. A perfect route for nature lovers.
For those seeking the best viewpoints in the Dolomites, Plan de Corones is undoubtedly in the top three.
Winter at Plan de Corones: World-Class Skiing
In winter, Plan de Corones becomes South Tyrol's number one ski resort and one of the finest in the entire Alps. With 119 km of perfectly groomed runs, 32 modern lifts and guaranteed snow from November to April, it is paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.
The Best Runs
- Erta run: the most famous black run, with gradients up to 70% — a challenge even for experts
- Pre da Peres run: a long, panoramic descent perfect for intermediate skiers
- Sylvester run: ideal for families and beginners, with views over the Val Badia
The Dolomiti Superski pass gives you access to Plan de Corones and all 11 other Dolomite ski areas — 1,200 km of runs with a single pass. Adults from around 72 euros per day in high season. Children under 8 ski for free.
Snow Park and Freeride
The Kronplatz Snow Park is one of the best in the Alps, with lines for beginners, intermediates and pros. For those who prefer freeriding, the off-piste slopes on the north face offer fresh powder and thrilling descents — though always with a mountain guide.
How to Get to Plan de Corones from San Vigilio
San Vigilio di Marebbe is one of the most convenient access points for Plan de Corones. Here are your options:
By Cable Car
The Ried gondola departs directly from San Vigilio and reaches the summit in about 15 minutes. It operates in both summer and winter and is the fastest way to the top. The cable car station is reachable on foot or via the free shuttle bus from San Vigilio.
By Car
If you are coming from further afield, San Vigilio is:
- Bolzano: 1h15 via the Brenner motorway and Puster Valley
- Innsbruck: 1h45 via the Brenner Pass
- Venice: 3h30 via the A27 and Puster Valley
For detailed directions, check our guide on how to reach San Vigilio.
Combine Plan de Corones with the Zipline
Here is the perfect tip for an unforgettable day: spend the morning at Plan de Corones — museum, panoramic platform, a short hike — and in the afternoon experience the adrenaline of the Adrenaline Adventures zipline.
Our zipline is located right in San Vigilio, so there is no need to travel. You can step off the gondola and within minutes be on the launch platform, ready to fly over the valleys at 80 km/h across 7 lines and 3 km of course.
It is the perfect combination: culture and panoramas in the morning, pure adrenaline in the afternoon.
View Prices and Book the ZiplinePractical Tips for Your Visit
When to Go
- Summer (June-September): ideal for hiking, the museum and the panoramic platform. June is the best month to avoid the crowds — read our guide on what to do in the Dolomites in spring.
- Winter (December-April): perfect for skiing. January and February offer the best snow.
What to Bring
- Hiking boots in summer, ski boots in winter
- Windproof jacket and fleece (it can be cold at the summit even in summer)
- SPF 50 sunscreen and sunglasses
- A proper camera — these views deserve more than a phone selfie
Costs
- Return cable car (summer): approximately 28-35 euros for adults, reduced for children
- Daily ski pass: from 55 to 72 euros depending on the season
- MMM Corones: approximately 12 euros (free with Holidaypass)
Read Also
- Complete Guide to San Vigilio di Marebbe
- Best Viewpoints in the Dolomites
- Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park Hikes
