Solo in the Dolomites mid-September — basing in Bolzano, no car, seeking local advice on Seceda, Lago di Braies, and Törggelen

Hi everyone, I’m planning a solo trip to the Dolomites from September 17–20 and would love honest feedback from those who know the area well. I’m an experienced walker but not a mountaineer, and I’ll be relying entirely on public transport.

Base & accommodation

I’m staying at the Ostello della Gioventù on Via Renon in Bolzano and using it as a day-trip hub rather than sleeping up in the mountains. I know this means longer journey times, but it keeps things flexible and budget-friendly.

Trek 1 — Seceda (September 18)

Plan is Bus 350 from Bolzano to Ortisei, then the gondola up to Seceda. I’d like to do the classic ridgeline walk, not all the way back to Ortisei on foot, just the panoramic section. For a solo hiker without a car, is this a solid choice, or is there a smarter alternative that's easier to reach by bus? Any tips on what time the first bus leaves and which gondola ticket to buy? I'd like to catch the morning light and avoid the worst crowds.

Trek 2 — Lago di Braies (September 20)

I know the seasonal Bus 442 from Villabassa runs only until September 20. I’m planning to do this trip exactly on the 20th — train to Villabassa, then the bus to the lake. Am I cutting it too close to the end of the schedule? Should I try to do it earlier (the 19th) instead? I’m keen to walk the lakeside loop and perhaps the slightly longer circuit up to a rifugio. Any specific hut that’s open for a casual lunch this late in the season?

Törggelen wild card (September 18 evening)

I want to experience Törggelen my first evening — chestnuts, new wine, speck, the works. I understand the official season generally starts in October, but some farmhouses open in late September. Is it realistic to find a Buschenschank open on September 18 near Bolzano? I’ve seen Buschenschank Grafhof mentioned. Is that a good pick for a first-timer, or would you recommend somewhere else accessible by foot or short bus from the city?

Bonus question

Is there anything I’ve planned that a local would eye-roll at? I’m trying to avoid super-crowded selfie spots and eat where an English menu is a red flag.

Thanks in advance — really grateful for any practical tips, especially on bus timing and current conditions.