Did you know?
"Rifugio" is Italian for "shelter" but usually refers to "mountain hut".
Alta Via 1
Rifugios
Notes:
- The highlithed route is not covering all the options of taking the AV1 trek. There are many other hiking trails you can take as well as Via Ferrata routes (which are for more advanced hikers & climbers and may require special equipment).
- 'h from start' is the estimated total time between the starting point to the rifugio along the route and according to this "official" AV1 guide. The time should represent a non-stop walking on an average pace.
- 'km from start' is the estimated total distance between the starting point to the rifugio along the shortest trekking route and it doesn't take into account climbs and descents.
Alta Via 1 & its rifugios
The breathtaking landscapes, beauty and mystique of Italy have inspired, captivated and charmed people for centuries — from writers to hikers and beyond. It even prompted Mark Twain to pen that “the Creator made Italy from designs by Michelangelo.” One of the most incredible hikes, well known to trekking enthusiasts, is the Dolomites Alta Via 1 (High Route 1) trail starting at Lago di Braies in South Tyrol, Northern Italy. Whilst making your way through steep valleys, past high Alpine grazing lands or viewing majestic mountains and breathtaking sunsets, this picturesque trip is perfected by the many rustic rifugios along the route, and just as well since camping is forbidden. These little alpine mountain huts offer a warm place to sleep and replenish your energy, whether you’ve chosen a leisurely stroll at medium altitude or a challenging trekking tour amid glaciers and Alpine lakes. They also offer delicious local cuisine so you don’t need to carry extra gear and can better enjoy what will most certainly be an unforgettable, perhaps even Twain’s heavenly, experience!
After hours of hiking on the high Dolomites rocky terrain paths you will reach your rifugio and get a well earned beer and goulash (pro tip: most mountain refuges also got their own cheap home-made wine!), there is simply no better way to end your day.
Important information:
- Alta Via 1 is one of the most popular treks in Europe so booking rifugios long time in advance is almost a must! The refuges are usually open between 20 June to 20 September.