Step out of your mountain chalet while the morning air still carries the scent of pine resin and fresh dew. Walk a few minutes through the fir trees and, before you know it, you’re at the gondola station. A few moments later, gliding silently above the forest in a modern cabin, Folgaria unfolds beneath you-green, vibrant, and full of light.
In winter, every skier knows the Francolini-Sommo Alto gondola. But it is in summer that it becomes something truly special: a gateway to the trails, landscapes, and experiences of Alpe Cimbra. And from Camping Essenza Alpina in Francolini, that gateway is only a five-minute walk away.
The Gondola That Changes Summer in Folgaria
Since June 2026, the Francolini-Sommo Alto gondola has once again been operating during the summer season. For guests staying with us, it transforms the holiday experience. The journey begins in Francolini at 1,178 metres above sea level and climbs to Sommo Alto at 1,620 metres. Nearly three kilometres of ascent become a few minutes of pure wonder as the forest canopy drifts beneath you and the mountain air grows fresher with every metre.
The cabins are enclosed, spacious, and quiet. They comfortably accommodate strollers, backpacks, bicycles, and even your four-legged companions. Nobody gets left behind here-not even guests with reduced mobility, as Folgaria is committed to accessible tourism through its “4All” approach. The gondola is operated by Alpe Cimbra, but for us it feels like a gift right on our doorstep. Camping freedom here means stepping outside and finding yourself already on the way to the mountains, without ever needing to start the car.
At the Top of Sommo Alto: What to Do in Folgaria During Summer
As the cabin doors open, the beauty of the mountains welcomes you and you can discover some of Folgaria’s most beautiful attractions. Just a short walk from the upper station stands Forte Sommo Alto, a First World War fortress that can be reached along an easy route suitable for most visitors.
For those who enjoy exploring at a slower pace, trails continue towards Passo Coe, home to some of the area’s most fascinating attractions: the Alpine Botanical Garden, where local mountain species tell the story of the region’s unique ecosystem, Lake Coe a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by nature and Base Tuono, an open-air museum located within a former NATO missile base from the Cold War.
More experienced hikers can continue to the summit of Monte Maggio (1,857 metres), where trenches from the Great War overlook spectacular views stretching towards Mount Pasubio and the Asiago Plateau. For the return journey, many visitors choose the historic military road that gently descends towards the Folgaria basin, passing near the protected Echen Biotope before returning comfortably to Francolini and Camping Essenza Alpina.
Many of these experiences become even more enjoyable with the Trentino Guest Card, which we provide to all guests upon arrival and which offers discounts and benefits throughout the region.
And when you return from the mountains with pleasantly tired legs and a clear mind, relaxation is already waiting for you. Our Nordic-inspired Wellness Essenza Alpina Spa offers: a panoramic Finnish sauna, the enveloping warmth of the steam bath, a refreshing cold plunge pool that leaves you feeling completely renewed, traditional Aufguss rituals led by our sauna masters, a relaxing soak in the outdoor airpool on the sun terrace, and massages designed to help you reconnect with yourself and recharge. For us, the simplest form of luxury is this: never having to choose between nature and relaxation.
Our Campsite in Folgaria: The Starting Point for Every Adventure
For camping guests, every adventure begins and ends at your pitch. Our panoramic terraced pitches overlook the surrounding mountains and are designed for travelers who want to enjoy fresh alpine air just steps from their tent, motorhome, caravan, or van. Around you, you’ll find everything needed for a carefree holiday: an on-site mini-market for everyday essentials, Bar Essenza Alpina, perfect for a Trentino-style aperitif after a day outdoors, a dog washing area, E-bike rental and charging facilities and a mini club with entertainment activities during peak season
What makes our campsite special is that you never have to choose between freedom and comfort. You can enjoy both, just steps from the gondola, in a campsite surrounded by wood, nature, and genuine hospitality. Discover our pitches.
Essenza Alpina Chalets: A Cozy Retreat at the End of the Day
As the sun disappears behind the peaks of Alpe Cimbra and the evening light turns golden, some guests prefer the comfort of their own private retreat. Our Essenza Alpina Chalets were designed for exactly that. Warm and welcoming interiors, mountain views from the terrace, and the feeling of having your own alpine refuge. Our open-space chalet is perfect for couples and small families, while the two-bedroom chalet accommodates up to six guests and offers separate living areas for greater comfort and privacy.
It is the perfect way to end a day in the mountains: a warm shower, the quiet of the evening, and one last glance at a sky filled with stars before falling asleep. Here, simplicity and comfort go hand in hand-and for us, that is the true meaning of alpine elegance.
Because a ride on the gondola is only the beginning. Many guests spend their days discovering cycling routes, visiting mountain huts, or simply enjoying peaceful afternoons overlooking the forest. A week in Folgaria is never the same twice, and that is exactly how long it takes for the mountains to find their way into your heart.
Summer in Folgaria, Alpe Cimbra, begins at Essenza Alpina. Discover our chalets.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Francolini-Sommo Alto gondola operate during summer?
The Francolini-Sommo Alto gondola operates during the summer season starting from June 2026, with continuous service from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The gondola remains closed in the event of bad weather.
How far is the gondola from Camping Essenza Alpina?
The lower station in Francolini is only a five-minute walk from our campsite. You can reach it directly from your pitch or chalet without using your car.
Can I bring children, strollers, bikes, or pets on the gondola?
Yes. The enclosed cabins are spacious and suitable for strollers, backpacks, bicycles-including e-bikes-and pets. Our campsite is pet-friendly and also includes a dedicated dog washing area.
What can I do at the top of Sommo Alto during summer?
From the upper station, an easy and mostly level walk leads to Forte Sommo Alto, making it ideal for families. For hikers, trails continue towards Passo Coe, where you can visit Lake Coe, the Alpine Botanical Garden, and Base Tuono, or continue all the way to Monte Maggio. For the return journey on foot, many visitors follow the scenic former military road descending towards Francolini and passing near the Echen Biotope.
Is the gondola operated by the campsite?
No. The Francolini-Sommo Alto gondola is operated by Alpe Cimbra. However, Camping Essenza Alpina is located just a few steps from the lower station, making it an ideal base for enjoying the gondola throughout your holiday.
How long should I stay in Folgaria during summer?
The longer you stay, the more the mountains reveal themselves. A week gives you enough time to combine excursions from Sommo Alto, cycling adventures, spa relaxation, and peaceful days at the campsite, allowing you to experience every aspect of an Alpe Cimbra holiday at your own pace.
