Journey through the Eastern Dolomites on the Alta Via 1
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Hotel accommodations
Tour the classic Italian Alta Via 1 in the east of The Dolomites, from the wonderful Lake Prags to Belluno, while staying in authentic mountain cabins.
It starts in South Tyrol with its distinctive Austrian atmosphere. Then head south along a meandering route under the spectacular mountain ranges that include the iconic 3,200 m peaks of Tofana, Lagazuoi, Pelo and the mythical Civetta. End this route 140 km later, in the charming village of Belluno.
The Dolomites rise dramatically around you while you delight in the warm Italian welcome, delicious pastas, excellent local wines and a unique atmosphere of the 'rifugi', one of the highlights on the Alta Via 1. You'll love the simple but pleasant cabin-to-cabin tour, relaxing at the end of the day in remote mountain accommodations, some built as far back as 1930.
- Walk along trails through the radiant peaks in The Dolomites.
- Enjoy warm hospitality and delicious Italian food in the historic mountain 'rifugios'.
- Visit the elegant village of Cortina before you start your journey.
- Listen to the call of the groundhog in the National Park of the Belluno Dolomites.
- Enjoy the feeling of completing one of the most typical long-distance routes in Europe.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Cortina
This unforgettable walking tour starts in Cortina, a beautiful town in the heart of the Dolomites. It is known as the centre for skiing and mountaineering in the Dolomites High route and offers a wide variety of restaurants and shops.
Overnight in Cortina
Alaska Hotel Cortina
Alaska Hotel stands out for its relaxed and elegant atmosphere in a strategic location in the Dolomites, close to essential services such as a ski and mountaineering school, an ancient church, and others.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Cortina to Rifugio Sennes 5,4 miles | 8,8 km
Start the day by taking a bus via Dobbiaco to Lago di Braies, a spectacular lake that marks the official start of the Alta Via 1.
Start at the far end of the lake and walk towards the head of the valley, along pine tree-lined paths. On the way, if the skies are clear, you will have the chance to contemplate the Tre Cime's immensity, three peaks characterised by their castellated shape.
You will ascend to the Rifugio Biella. There you can decide whether to climb to the summit of Croda del Becco or continue downhill to the Rifugio Sennes, located at 2,126 metres and offering an excellent panoramic view of the nearby peaks.
Rifugio Fodara Vedla: in case of unavailability at the Rifugio Sennes, you will have your accommodation at this refuge.
Start at the far end of the lake and walk towards the head of the valley, along pine tree-lined paths. On the way, if the skies are clear, you will have the chance to contemplate the Tre Cime's immensity, three peaks characterised by their castellated shape.
You will ascend to the Rifugio Biella. There you can decide whether to climb to the summit of Croda del Becco or continue downhill to the Rifugio Sennes, located at 2,126 metres and offering an excellent panoramic view of the nearby peaks.
Rifugio Fodara Vedla: in case of unavailability at the Rifugio Sennes, you will have your accommodation at this refuge.
Overnight in Rifugio Sennes
Pederü Berggasthaus
Situated in an idyllic location, right in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain refuge is the ideal starting point for exciting adventures in the midst of nature.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Rifugio Sennes to San Cassiano 13,4 miles | 21,6 km
Today you will walk to Rifugio Pederu (1,544 m) along an old World War I mountain route.
You will have a lunch break at the rifugio while admiring the Sennes and Fanes massifs.
Afterwards, continue through the Rudo Valley, ascend to Valun de Fanes and follow the Medesc Valley until you reach San Cassiano, a beautiful village located at 1,500 meters above sea level, where you will spend the night.
You will have a lunch break at the rifugio while admiring the Sennes and Fanes massifs.
Afterwards, continue through the Rudo Valley, ascend to Valun de Fanes and follow the Medesc Valley until you reach San Cassiano, a beautiful village located at 1,500 meters above sea level, where you will spend the night.
Overnight in San Cassiano
Rifugio Fanes
The Fanes Rigugio, overlooking San Vigilio di Marebbe, offers an unforgettable experience with its tradition since 1928, Ladino atmosphere, and wonderful view of the Dolomites.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - San Cassiano to Rifugio Lagazuoi 7 miles | 11,4 km
In your journey today, you will have the opportunity to see Lago Lagazuoi (2,180 m.), a beautiful alpine lake located in the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park.
You will advance through the windy meadows of Forcella del Lago and, later, you must descend a steep and rocky path.
In the Dolomiti d'Ampezzo National Park, you will see the remains of the first Austrian-Italian line of the First World War and you can visit the Grande Guerra open-air museum and then head back to your refuge.
Rifugio Scotoni / Rifugio Col di Gallina: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Lagazuoi, you will be accommodated in one of these two refuges.
You will advance through the windy meadows of Forcella del Lago and, later, you must descend a steep and rocky path.
In the Dolomiti d'Ampezzo National Park, you will see the remains of the first Austrian-Italian line of the First World War and you can visit the Grande Guerra open-air museum and then head back to your refuge.
Rifugio Scotoni / Rifugio Col di Gallina: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Lagazuoi, you will be accommodated in one of these two refuges.
Overnight in Rifugio Lagazuoi
Rifugio Lagazuoi
The Lagazuoi Refuge, located at the summit of Mount Lagazuoi above the Falzarego Pass, is the highest and largest mountain hut in Cortina d'Ampezzo, boasting the most panoramic terrace in the Dolomites at an altitude of 2752m.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Rifugio Lagazuoi to Rifugio Nuvolau 5,5 miles | 9 km
Today you will immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountains and advance amidst the woods while contemplating Cinque Torri, a set of mountains with an elevation of 2,361 meters above sea level.
Later, you will arrive at Nuvolau and, from there, you must head to your Refuge.
Rifugio Averau / Rifugio Scoiattoli / Rifugio Fedare: in case there is no availability at the Nuvolau Refuge, you will be accommodated in one of these refuges.
Later, you will arrive at Nuvolau and, from there, you must head to your Refuge.
Rifugio Averau / Rifugio Scoiattoli / Rifugio Fedare: in case there is no availability at the Nuvolau Refuge, you will be accommodated in one of these refuges.
Overnight in Rifugio Nuvolau
Rifugio Nuvolau
In the vicinity of Rifugio Nuvolau, everything exudes the essence of the mountains, from the rugged rock on which it stands to the history it preserves. You will have the opportunity to experience the tradition of the ancient alpine huts in the Dolomites.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Rifugio Nuvolau to Rifugio Passo Staulanza 10 miles I 16,1 km
Head towards the Rifugio Passo Giau (2,236 m) and enjoy a magnificent walk amidst beautiful flower fields.
If you are lucky, you will see eagles flying and hear the call of the marmots while you cross grasslands and farmlands.
Continue your way until you reach the Rifugio Passo Staulanza. They serve the best hot chocolate in the Dolomites, so we suggest you try it.
Rifugio Citta di Fiume / Rifugio Aquileia: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Passo Staulanza, you will be accommodated in one of these two refuges.
If you are lucky, you will see eagles flying and hear the call of the marmots while you cross grasslands and farmlands.
Continue your way until you reach the Rifugio Passo Staulanza. They serve the best hot chocolate in the Dolomites, so we suggest you try it.
Rifugio Citta di Fiume / Rifugio Aquileia: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Passo Staulanza, you will be accommodated in one of these two refuges.
Overnight in Rifugio Passo Staulanza
Rifugio Citta di Fiume
The Refugio Citta di Fiume is located on a plot on the slopes of Pelmo and is created from the ancient Malga Durona. The warmth of the fire and the family atmosphere will make you feel immediately at home.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Rifugio Passo Staulanza to Alleghe 6 miles | 9,7 km
Today's route leads you to Alleghe, a town in the province of Belluno, famous for being an important center for winter tourism.
On the way, you will have the opportunity to contemplate Cima Coldai (2,403 m), a cornerstone of the northern massif of Civetta.
On the way, you will have the opportunity to contemplate Cima Coldai (2,403 m), a cornerstone of the northern massif of Civetta.
Overnight in Alleghe
Rifugio Adolfo Sonino Al Coldai
The Coldai Refuge offers a unique experience amidst the stunning nature of the Dolomites. Despite being called a refuge, it features indoor bathrooms with hot water and showers, as well as electric lighting.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Alleghe to Rifugio Passo Duran 11,2 miles | 18,1 km
Start the day with a pleasant walk by Lago Coldai, a beautiful alpine lake of glacial origin. Afterward, walk to the valley and, before climbing towards the first mountain pass of the day, the Forcella di Col Rean, enjoy the views of Lago Alleghe.
Further on, heading towards Passo Duran, you will cross several mountain passes ('forcelle'), while skirting the imposing Civetta massif.
Rifugio San Sebastiano / Rifugio Bruto Carestiato / Malga Calleda: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Passo Duran, you will be accommodated in one of these three refuges.
Further on, heading towards Passo Duran, you will cross several mountain passes ('forcelle'), while skirting the imposing Civetta massif.
Rifugio San Sebastiano / Rifugio Bruto Carestiato / Malga Calleda: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Passo Duran, you will be accommodated in one of these three refuges.
Overnight in Rifugio Passo Duran
Rifugio San Sebastiano
The Refuge was recently built in a traditional chalet style. It offers double rooms (some with bunk beds), shower, and bathroom facilities. It is located between two beautiful valleys and along Zoldana Agordina. There is a small shop and a café bar, as well as a wonderful fireplace where you can relax at the end of a strenuous day.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Rifugio Passo Duran to Rifugio Pian de Fontana 10 miles | 16,1 km
Today's route will be along remote trails that will give you some incredible views.
You will ascend the rocky slopes of Cima di Zita and then enter the Parco Nazionale Delle Dolomiti (National Park of the Bellunesi Dolomites), the wildest national park on the route, where you will have the chance to enjoy the fantastic flora and fauna of the area.
Twice you will have to climb steep gradients to reach the highest mountain pass of the day at 2,452m, from where you can begin to enjoy the views of the Venetian plains.
Rifugio Furio Bianchet: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Pian de Fontana, you will be accommodated in this refuge.
You will ascend the rocky slopes of Cima di Zita and then enter the Parco Nazionale Delle Dolomiti (National Park of the Bellunesi Dolomites), the wildest national park on the route, where you will have the chance to enjoy the fantastic flora and fauna of the area.
Twice you will have to climb steep gradients to reach the highest mountain pass of the day at 2,452m, from where you can begin to enjoy the views of the Venetian plains.
Rifugio Furio Bianchet: in case there is no availability at the Rifugio Pian de Fontana, you will be accommodated in this refuge.
Overnight in Rifugio Pian de Fontana
Hotel Posta
The Hotel Posta is located facing the Piave river valley and offers a beautiful view of the Dolomite Alps and the Vajont Dam. Situated in the historical center of Longarone, it provides rooms equipped with private bathrooms.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Rifugio Pian de Fontana to Belluno 9,1 miles | 14,7 km
Today you will say goodbye to the Dolomites and their charms and head back to the city.
On your way down you will pass the Rifugio Bianchet and then, through the woods, you will reach La Muda, where you will take a bus to Belluno, a small but welcoming village, ideal for rounding off your trip along the Alta Via 1 with a flourish.
On your way down you will pass the Rifugio Bianchet and then, through the woods, you will reach La Muda, where you will take a bus to Belluno, a small but welcoming village, ideal for rounding off your trip along the Alta Via 1 with a flourish.
Overnight in Belluno
Albergo Cappello
This renowned hotel, located amidst the main attractions of the alpine city and in a personality-rich environment, offers its guests a comfortable and relaxing stay.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Belluno
You can take a train from Belluno (via Conegliano) to Venice.
End of our services.
End of our services.
Itinerary map
Services
Included
- Accommodation in private and shared rooms
- Daily Breakfasts
- 6 Evening Meals
- Luggage transfer from Cortina to Sennes on day 2
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodation with which we collaborate is carefully selected by our team to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience throughout your trip.
For this walking route, we have chosen comfortable hotels for the first and last night to guarantee peace of mind, rest and enjoyment.
For the other nights, we have selected 'rifugi' (mountain refuge huts) which will allow you to discover the Italian culture up close and enjoy the hospitality of these traditional lodgings.
Due to the rifugi's location and limited capacity, we recommend you confirm your booking as soon as possible. The name of each accommodation will be provided to you thirty days before the start of your trip.
Room types
For the first and last night's accommodation, your booking will be in private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
In the rifugi, the rooms are generally shared and mixed. There is the possibility, albeit very limited, to request a private room, some of which have individual bathrooms and some of which have shared bathrooms. In either case, it is necessary to book in advance.
Travel & transfers
To get to Cortina, Marco Polo Airport in Venice is the most convenient, thanks to the operation of several international airlines. From there, it is possible to take the "Cortin Express towards Cortina" (operated by Cortina Express ) which departs twice a day, usually in the afternoon.
It is also possible to get to Venice's smallest airport, Venice Treviso, and from Treviso Sud, take a bus that departs once a day to Cortina.
At the end of your journey, you can take a train from “Belluno - Stazione” station to “Venezia Mestre - Stazione” station (operated by Trenitalia) to catch bus 10a to Venice Marco Poco Airport.
It is also possible to get to Venice's smallest airport, Venice Treviso, and from Treviso Sud, take a bus that departs once a day to Cortina.
At the end of your journey, you can take a train from “Belluno - Stazione” station to “Venezia Mestre - Stazione” station (operated by Trenitalia) to catch bus 10a to Venice Marco Poco Airport.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Luggage transfer is only included on day 2, from Cortina to Sennes, as all the other destinations on each day are remote places that are unfortunately not accessible by car, as there are no roads that allow this.
Therefore, you will have to carry a backpack, with which you can walk with everything you need for each day.
How soon should I book my trip?
We suggest you make the reservation as soon as possible, as soon as you have decided your travel dates, as this destination is extremely popular, and accommodation bookings sell out quickly, mainly private rooms. However, we will always try to adjust to your plans.
What is the best time of year to do this route?
The best time to travel this route is from July to mid-September; August is the most popular month (for locals too) and that's why cabins are always busy. It is not uncommon for snow to fall in summer in the highest areas, and some snowflakes are still present in July.
We offer walks from the beginning of July. July and August are the hottest months of the year and you run the risk of big storms, which can be torrential and usually occur in the afternoon. It is essential to be well equipped and prepared for these eventualities.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is classified as moderate to strenuous and requires a good physical condition. You must be used to walking in mountains, crossing stony or snowy routes, and climbing uphill and downhill to make the most of this trip.
What if I can't finish a route?
Due to the location of the cabins in the middle of the mountains, it is usually not possible to take any transport between them. Shelter staff will be available to guide you on the best options.
What personal equipment do I need?
In our informative dossier, we detail the tips and the kit with everything we suggest you carry. The most important thing is standard walking equipment such as raincoats, good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen, water bottle and a light backpack that can be adjusted to the waist.
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