Alta Via 1 is a classic for a reason. This premier trek in the Dolomites has it all—fascinating history, jaw-dropping views, and world-class hiking. Over 10 days, this hiking journey will take us hut-to-hut, passing crystal-clear lakes, soaring cliffs, and impossibly green valleys dotted with wildflowers—and, of course, the friendliest cows! The moment you step onto the trail, you’ll see exactly why this trek lives up to its legendary reputation. We’ll fuel up on espressos, feast on local dishes, and mingle with fellow hikers who love the trail as much as you do. Ready to step into a real-life postcard?
Alta Via 1 is the ultimate hiking adventure in the Dolomites! This classic 8-day trek, plus 2 extra days in Cortina d’Ampezzo, lets you enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics. All accommodation, breakfasts, dinners, and an experienced International Mountain Guide are included. With luggage access on most nights, you won’t have to carry a heavy pack. Come join us and finally tick Alta Via 1 off your bucket list!
Today is all about arrival to the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, known as the jewel of the Dolomites. The beauty of the Ampezzo Valley, along with its 1,000-year history, attracts visitors year-round. Surrounded by majestic peaks, Cortina—a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site—is sure to impress any mountain lover.
Our hotel for this trip is within easy walking distance of the bustling pedestrian town center, as well as numerous museums and galleries. We’ll meet at the hotel at approximately 6:30 pm. Feel free to use this day to explore the town—proud of its heritage, Cortina offers a chance to explore local traditions, history, and the environment at the Ethnographic Museum. You can also visit the “Rinaldo Zardini” Palaeontological Museum, home to one of the most significant fossil collections in the world.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Luggage access: Yes
A short taxi ride takes us to the famous Lago di Braies, a stunning turquoise lake set among towering cliffs. According to legend, local savages once dug in the mountains for gold and precious stones. When jealous herdsmen tried to steal their treasures, the savages opened an underground spring, sinking their riches into what became Lago di Braies. The lake is now one of the largest and deepest natural lakes in the Dolomites. After following its shoreline, we begin our ascent through pine forests, eventually emerging beneath the dramatic, striated cliffs of Monte Muro.
The climb continues to Porta Sora il Forn at 2,388 m (7,832 ft), where we are rewarded with breathtaking views. A short five-minute descent brings us to Rifugio Biella, a perfect spot for a bowl of minestrone or another well-earned meal. After lunch, we descend through picturesque flower meadows and traditional farms. The trail gradually winds down before a final steep road, passing beneath towering cliffs, leads us to our overnight stop at Rifugio Pederu.
Hiking: 17 km (10.6 mi), 7 hours
Elevation: +1,045 m (+3,427 ft), -984 m (-3,227 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Pederu
Luggage access: Yes
A steady climb this morning takes us up through the wild and rocky Vallone di Rudo to Lago Piciodil, with the reward of excellent Italian coffee at Rifugio Fanes. We continue along the trail to Passo di Limo at 2,172 m (7,124 ft), where the lake of the same name is framed by high peaks and curious limestone slabs dotted with pine trees. Families enjoying a picnic by the lake are a common sight. A rugged traverse then brings us to the Forcetta del Lago at 2,486 m (8,154 ft), followed by an improbable descent to the green waters of Lago di Lagazuoi.
There is a little ‘sting in the tail’ as we tackle a final 200 m (656 ft) climb to reach our rifugio. We are now walking along what was the frontline during WWI, evident from the gun emplacements and tunnels carved into the ridgeline. This remarkably well-preserved reminder of more troubled times is now home to Rifugio Lagazuoi, perched dramatically on the cliff’s edge high in the mountains. The rifugio even boasts a wood-fired sauna—perfect for easing tired muscles while enjoying the breathtaking mountain views. Despite the day’s big climb, the descent is minimal, and our knees will appreciate that!
Hiking: 18 km (11.3 mi), 9 hours
Elevation: +1,685 m (+5,526 ft), -450 m (-1,476 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Lagazuoi
Luggage access: No
After yesterday’s long hike, today offers a more relaxed pace. We start with a short 10-minute walk to the summit of Mount Lagazuoi, where the early morning light provides stunning photo opportunities with views stretching to the distant Marmolada. After breakfast, we begin our descent to the famed Passo Falzarego, a favorite among road cyclists and a feature of the annual Dolomites Marathon. Here, you’ll find cafés and gift shops where maps of the local area can be purchased. A gentle stroll across meadows leads us to a local restaurant for morning coffee before we ascend through beautiful larch forests on a scenic trail.
As we climb, we are treated to breathtaking views of Mount Lagazuoi, the Tofane mountain range, and the iconic Cinque Torri (Five Towers). This is an excellent day for photography, especially as we pass the striking blue-green waters of Lago Limedes, which offers spectacular panoramic shots. We typically stop for lunch at Rifugio Averau, renowned for its excellent cuisine. Later, we take a short 20-minute climb to the historic Rifugio Nuvolau, the oldest rifugio in the Dolomites, perched dramatically on the cliff’s edge. However, if you prefer to relax on the terrace at Rifugio Averau instead, no one will hold it against you! After soaking in the views at Nuvolau, we descend to the pass before a final easy walk to our accommodation for the night, which will be at either Rifugio Averau, Passo Giau, or Rifugio Scoiattoli, depending on availability.
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi), 6 hours (to Passo Giau or Rifugio Scoiattoli) / 7 km (4.3 mi), 5 hours 15 minutes (to Rifugio Averau)
Elevation (to Passo Giau or Rifugio Scoiattoli): +515 m (+1,689 ft), -974 m (-3,194 ft)
Elevation (to Rifugio Averau): +515 m (+1,689 ft), -774 m (-2,539 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Passo Giau or Rifugio Scoiattoli
Luggage access: Yes for Passo Giau/Rifugio Scoiattoli, no for Rifugio Averau
Before leaving Passo Giau this morning, take a moment to imagine tackling this infamous pass on two wheels. The grueling ascent is a regular feature of the Giro d’Italia, Italy’s answer to the Tour de France. Cyclists face a punishing 9.8 km (6 mi) climb with an average gradient of 9.4%, reaching up to 14% in some sections. Fortunately, our trail begins more gently as we traverse the mountainside beneath Monte Formin’s striking southern cliffs before climbing to Forcella Ambrizzola at 2,277 m (7,468 ft).
From here, we enjoy sweeping views of the majestic Civetta mountain as we descend gradually through alpine pastures dotted with sheep and dairy cows. Keep an eye out for the iconic edelweiss flower, which often blooms along the trail in these high meadows. Our final stretch follows a traversing path beneath the dramatic peaks and towering spires of Monte Pelmo, one of the Dolomites’ most famous landmarks. A final descent through larch forests brings us to our accommodation for the night at Rifugio Staulanza, a charming refuge run by renowned mountaineer Marco Sala.
Hiking: 17 km (10.6 mi), 8 hours
Elevation: +644 m (+2,112 ft), -973 m (-3,191 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Staulanza
Luggage access: Yes
The day begins with a leisurely stroll along a farm cart track through peaceful forests. Along the way, we often pass herds of cattle and their loyal dogs tending to them in the summer meadows. Our trail leads to the Casera di Pioda dairy farm, where fresh cheese is available during the summer months. Leaving this pastoral scene behind, we begin a steady ascent on a well-graded mule track to the shoulder of Cima Coldai, an outlier of the Civetta range, until we reach the beautifully situated Rifugio Sonino Al Coldai.
From here, we cross a pass and descend to the rocky shores of the stunning Lago Coldai, a brilliant turquoise lake nestled in the mountains. Skirting the lake, we ascend over Forcella Col Negro at 2,203 m (7,225 ft) before descending into Val Civetta. Towering 1,200 m (3,936 ft) above us, the sheer west face of Monte Civetta stretches an astonishing 7 km (4.4 mi) in length. At its highest point, a hanging icefield—Cristallo—clings dramatically to the cliffs. Known as the “wall of walls,” this face is one of the most awe-inspiring in the Alps. We continue over Forcella di Col Rean before reaching our remote overnight stay at Rifugio Vazzoler.
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 7 hours
Elevation: +952 m (+3,122 ft), -800 m (-2,624 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Vazzoler
Luggage access: No
Leaving our rifugio, we are greeted with striking views of the towering Torre Trieste and the imposing Cima della Busazza at 2,894 m (9,492 ft). Our trail crosses a rocky slope beneath the cliffs before reaching the steep yet scenic pass of Forcella Col Dell’Orso at 1,823 m (5,979 ft). A short section equipped with chains provides a secure handrail along a flower-strewn rock face before the path rises across boulders and pastures, eventually descending beneath the vast south face of Moiazza.
Following the Val Framont, we have the option of a brief detour to the beautifully perched Rifugio Carestiato, an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch in breathtaking surroundings. The final stretch of today’s hike takes us through peaceful pastures and pine forests before reaching Passo Duran and our accommodation at Rifugio Sebastiano by early afternoon. Here, we regain access to our luggage as we prepare for the final stages of our Dolomite traverse.
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 6 hours
Elevation: +740 m (+2,427 ft), -800 m (-2,624 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Sebastiano
Luggage access: Yes
Today, we enter the Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, the wildest of the national parks along the Alta Via 1, where sightings of deer and marmots are common. Setting off early from Passo Duran, our trail winds around the southern slopes of Tamer Grande, immediately immersing us in rugged landscapes of sheer cliffs and towering summits. After passing through the forest, we climb to the remains of the Moschesin garrison, reaching Forcella del Moschesin at 1,940 m (6,364 ft). A short descent brings us near Rifugio Pramparet, beautifully perched in a remote setting overlooking the Costa dei Nass valley.
Continuing uphill, we reach Portela dei Pezedei, where the landscape opens up, becoming increasingly rocky underfoot. As we traverse the western slopes of Cima de Zita, the trail narrows to a short, exposed ridge path before reaching the day’s highest pass at 2,451 m (8,041 ft). From here, glimpses of the Venetian Plain appear as we descend sharply down grassy mountainsides to Rifugio Pian de Fontana, our overnight stop at 1,632 m (5,354 ft), perched on a scenic shelf. Just before reaching the rifugio, keep an eye out for the famed edelweiss flowers growing along the trail.
Hiking: 16 km (10 mi), 8–9 hours
Elevation: +1,100 m (+3,608 ft), -1,030 m (-3,380 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Rifugio Pian de Fontana
Luggage access: No
We complete the Alta Via 1 with a gentle trail back to civilization, offering time to reflect on this incredible mountain journey. Leaving the peaceful, secluded Rifugio Pian de Fontana, our path descends through tranquil pine forests before joining the Alta Via Bellunesi trail. A short ascent brings us to Forcella la Vareta at 1,704 m (5,589 ft), passing just north of La Schiara at 2,565 m (8,415 ft)—the last major summit of our route in the Veneto Dolomites.
From here, we descend toward Rifugio F. Bianchet, where we enjoy one final coffee in the mountains. Our journey then concludes with a long, winding descent along a farm track to La Stanga, where a private taxi awaits to take us back to Cortina d’Ampezzo and our hotel.
Hiking: 14.2 km (8.8 mi), 5h00
Elevation: +414 m (+1,357 ft), -1,561 m (-5,120 ft)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Luggage access: Yes
After the final breakfast at the hotel, our adventure officially comes to an end! If you’d like to stay longer in the area, just ask your guides for some recommendations!
Meals: Breakfast
Outstanding! Our guide had a great personality, patient, attentive to all participants, knowledgeable, quick and efficient to make a new plan due to our weather disruptions. I also want to thank Byron (in the office) for helping to alter our route and make new accommodations due to the snow storm.
Jaw-dropping scenery; ups and downs to awaken your inner athlete; camaraderie with other hikers from around the world; superb leadership from our kind, knowledgeable, certified-mountain-man guide Mark; food, flowers, wildlife, conversation… all of it: FANTASTIC. It was the best possible experience for our 4-person family. Additionally, when one of us had an injury to deal with, the mothership kept in constant contact with us and made all the arrangements necessary to get said person down the mountain (and up again). First class, professional, experienced operation. Bravo!
Included:
Add-ons (let us know at checkout if you’re interested)
Not included:
In order to join this Alta Via 1 guided tour, great fitness is required as well as prior trekking experience and the ability to handle bad weather when needed. You will be hiking up to 9 hours per day for 8 consecutive days, covering up to 18 km (11.3 mi) and gaining up to +1,685 m (+5,526 ft) in a day. Day-by-day distances and elevation changes can be found in the itinerary.
This Alta Via 1 guided tour is physically challenging and it’s suitable for regular hill-walkers who are used to extended days. These treks can involve difficult and demanding days on rough and sometimes loose terrain, as well as crossing passes up to 3,100 m (10,168 ft). Some trail sections may be exposed but will be short. Occasionally, there may be ascents or descents of up to 1,800 m (5,904 ft).
Note that luggage transfers are included on most nights—there will be 2 or 3 nights without the possibility of luggage transfers, and you will need to carry extra items in your pack on those days.
For more hiking adventures in the Dolomites, click here! And if you want to see all our hiking trips in Italy, check them out here.
Packing the right gear is essential for a mountain trip. This kit list includes items suited to the weather and accommodations you’ll encounter.
Your luggage will be transported by a taxi driver, so please limit yourself to one bag of around 15kg (33lbs) per person. As not all hotels have elevators, you should be able to carry your own luggage upstairs. If you bring more than one bag, the taxi company may charge an extra fee, which you would need to cover.
Equipment
Clothing
Toiletries & personal items
Documentation
Personal First Aid
Items for the nights without luggage access
Additional Items
Summer weather in the European Alps can be unpredictable, much like any mountain environment where terrain influences conditions from valley to valley.
While summer generally brings good weather, it can range from sunshine to rain, fog, high winds, or even snow. Temperatures may exceed 30°C (86°F) in July and August but can drop to 5°C (41°F) on the high passes, known as ‘Cols.’ On average, expect 15-25°C (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°C (41-59°F) at higher elevations.
Even in mid-summer, overnight snow is possible, especially when staying in high-altitude mountain huts. Be prepared for all conditions.
Group sizes and pricing
Alta Via I guided tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
The starting point of your Alta Via 1 guided tour is Cortina d’Ampezzo. To get there, there are multiple airports to consider—Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Treviso Airport (TSF), Innsbruck Airport (INN), Bolzano Airport (BZO)… Depending on where you land, it will take you anywhere between 1.5-3 hours—you can rent a car, take public transport…
Aim to arrive in time for a 6:30pm meeting with your guide before dinner at your hotel.
Activity, injury, and mountain rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
The Alta Via I was a big goal for me, and the trip was everything I hoped for and more. The trip guide kept me thinking positively when I was struggling, and the astounding beauty kept me inspired as well. We encountered every type of weather possible, but these incredible mountains were worth every minute.