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Farmers in the picturesque Italian Dolomites have sparked criticism after installing a five-euro turnstile on a popular hiking path, demanding compensation for the growing influx of tourists who, they claim, damage their land and leave rubbish behind.

The move comes from four farmers in the South Tyrol province, in the German-speaking region of northern Italy, who own a stretch of land along a scenic footpath on the Seceda plateau. The path leads to breathtaking views of the Odle mountain massif, a draw for thousands of hikers each summer. On one recent day, a staggering 8,000 people used the trail.

Fed up with bearing the brunt of the environmental costs while receiving no financial benefit, the landowners installed a turnstile demanding €5 per person to access the trail.

The action challenges Italy's long-standing "right to roam," which grants public access to the country's mountains and rural landscapes, making it a deeply controversial development.

"This is a cry for help," said Georg Rabanser, one of the farmers behind the toll, speaking to local media. "We hoped the provincial government would intervene, but we've heard nothing. Meanwhile, cable car operators make millions while we clean up the mess."

The farmers initially placed the turnstile in July as a provocative gesture, later removing it in the hopes of sparking dialogue. But with no action from authorities, they reactivated the toll this week.

While the farmers argue the fee is justified to cover land maintenance and waste removal, local officials have questioned its legality. "We don't understand on what legal basis the entrance ticket is being charged," said Lukas Demetz, president of the Santa Cristina tourist board.

"It seems the owners just want to make some money."

The incident has ignited concerns among conservationists and hiking advocates.

"I don't want South Tyrol to become a land of turnstiles," said Carlo Alberto Zanella of the Italian Alpine Club.

"It's unthinkable that every landowner could start charging tolls."

Adding urgency to the debate is Italy's ongoing tourism surge. As soaring summer temperatures, with June temperatures surpassing 40°C, drive tourists away from beaches, many are flocking to the cooler mountain regions.

But the boom has brought risk as over 80 fatalities involving hikers, bikers and paragliders have been reported in the Dolomites so far this summer.

Though rangers have been deployed to manage the tourist flow and improve behaviour, tension continues to mount between those seeking profit and those demanding preservation.