The Alta Via 1 is nothing short of a hiker’s dream come true. As undoubtedly the best way to experience the mighty Dolomites, this 100-km (60-mile) journey over 10 days features jaw-dropping views of turquoise lakes, picturesque lush valleys, and some of the world’s most impressive rock formations. Add in the blend of Italian culture, stays at not-your-typical rifugi, and tasty authentic dishes, and you’ve got yourself an adventure of a lifetime in the Dollies!
This 10-day Alta Via 1 adventure is the ultimate hiking experience—join us and let’s explore one of the world’s most legendary trails! With an expert mountain guide leading the way, every detail is taken care of. We’ll trek rifugio-to-rifugio, soak in postcard-perfect landscapes, and savor authentic Italian cuisine. Most luggage transfers are included, along with comfortable accommodations and hearty meals. The Dolomites are nothing short of spectacular, earning their place among the most breathtaking destinations on Earth—this is your chance to see them for yourself!
Our trip begins in the famous town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Please plan to arrive in time for a 6pm briefing at your hotel, where you will meet your leader and the rest of the group.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Luggage access: Yes
The day begins with a transfer to Lago di Braies, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs. A steady ascent beneath the striated cliffs of Monte Muro leads to the pass at Porta Sora il Forn, 2,338 m (7,670 ft). From here, the view stretches to the Marmolada glacier in the southwest. The route then descends to either Rifugio Biella or Rifugio Sennes for lunch, followed by a scenic descent through flower-filled meadows and a final steep section down to Rifugio Pederu.
If staying at the Pederu hut, the day’s hike ends there. However, if accommodation is at Rifugio Fanes, an additional 1.5-hour climb is required to reach the hut. This makes for a longer day, so an early start is necessary, but the extra effort is well rewarded.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 22 km (13.7 mi), 7-8 hours
Elevation: +1,500 m (+4,920 ft), -1,020 m (-3,350 ft)
Luggage access: Yes
A steady climb in the morning leads to Passo di Limo, 2,172 m (7,126 ft), and the picturesque lake of the same name. If Rifugio Fanes was not the overnight stop, there is an opportunity to pause there for a coffee. The route then winds through scenic meadows along tracks built during World War I before a steep ascent across rugged terrain reaches Forcella del Lago, a hidden notch at 2,486 m (8,156 ft). From a distance, the descent into the gully appears improbable, but impressive engineering allows for a safe descent toward Lago di Lagazuoi.
The day ends with a 500 m (1,640 ft) climb to Rifugio Lagazuoi. This entire area witnessed intense fighting and heavy casualties during World War I, with scattered timbers, cables, trenches, and shelters serving as sobering reminders of the past. Just below the rifugio, the ridge once marked the front line between Austria and Italy, where well-preserved gun placements and tunnels can still be explored. If accommodation is at Rifugio Col Gallina, just below Passo Falzarego, the descent will either be by cable car from Lagazuoi or, if time allows, via the World War I tunnels leading to the pass.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 18 km (11.2 mi), 7.5 hours
Elevation: +1,185 m (+3,888 ft), -450 m (-1,476 ft)
Luggage access: No at Lagazuoi, yes at Col Gallina if staying there
Today’s journey passes beneath the towering Tofana di Rozes. The day begins by retracing a short section of the ridgeline before heading over Forcella Travenanzes at 2,507 m (8,225 ft). From there, the route continues to Forcella Col dei Bois, offering spectacular views toward the Cinque Torri. There is an opportunity to stop for coffee at Rifugio Dibona before descending through the forest.
In recent years, the path between Rifugio Lagazuoi and Rifugio Dibona has occasionally been closed due to rockfall risk. If necessary, the descent will be via cable car to Passo Falzarego or, if time allows, through the World War I tunnels leading to a footpath above the pass. The leader will decide the best route based on conditions. Upon reaching the other side of the valley, a steep climb through the forest leads to a well-earned lunch break under the Cinque Torri. The final stretch is a relatively easy ascent to Rifugio Averau. After checking in, an optional climb of 120 m (394 ft) to Rifugio Nuvolau is highly recommended for breathtaking cliff-top views of the Dolomites.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 16 km (9.9 mi), 7 hours
Elevation: +975 m (+3,199 ft) with Nuvolau climb, +855 m (+2,805 ft) without, -1,150 m (-3,773 ft)
Luggage access: No
The day begins with breathtaking views of the Tofane, Lagazuoi, and Cinque Torri before a steep descent leads to a trail beneath the towering cliffs. Passing through vibrant flower meadows, the route reaches Forcella Giau at 2,360 m (7,742 ft), a perfect spot for a coffee break while admiring the stunning panorama of Monte Pelmo.
Following the southern cliffs of Monte Formin, the path climbs to Forcella Ambrizzola at 2,277 m (7,470 ft). As the descent continues toward Rifugio Città di Fiume, the trail winds through grazing dairy herds with magnificent views of Civetta. After a brief rest, the final stretch of the day traverses beneath the jagged peaks and towering spires of Monte Pelmo, one of the Dolomites’ most iconic landmarks. A final descent through serene larch forests leads to either Rifugio Staulanza or Palafavera, depending on availability.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 20 km (12.4 mi), 8 hours
Elevation: +550 m (+1,805 ft), -1,160 m (-3,806 ft)
Luggage access: Yes
The day begins with a steady climb along a forest track to reach the working dairy farm of Casera di Pioda. Leaving behind the sounds of the goats and cows, the trail follows a well-graded mule track up to the shoulder of Cima Coldai. A coffee stop at Rifugio Sonino al Coldai offers a chance to enjoy the views before continuing west along a small valley to the stunning Lago Coldai, a turquoise gem surrounded by towering cliffs.
After lunch, the route climbs to Forcella Col Negro at 2,203 m (7,228 ft) before descending into Val Civetta. The scenery changes dramatically as the west face of Monte Civetta, with its impressive slabs and pinnacles, looms 1,200 m (3,937 ft) overhead. A hanging icefield, the Cristallo, is suspended beneath its highest peak. This face, known to climbers as the “wall of walls,” features a vertical drop of over 1,000 m (3,280 ft) and stretches 4 km (2.5 mi), offering endless climbing routes. The path continues over Forcella di Col Rean to Rifugio Vazzoler, a more rustic hut than the others encountered so far.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 6.5 hours
Elevation: +952 m (+3,123 ft), -800 m (-2,625 ft)
Luggage access: No
Leaving Rifugio Vazzoler, the towering peaks of Civetta rise above us, offering fantastic views of Torre Trieste (2,458 m / 8,065 ft) and Cima della Busazza (2,894 m / 9,496 ft). Across the Val Cordevole, the elegant summit of Monte Agner comes into view. The valley soon gives way to a path through beautiful, flower-filled woodlands. A short but steep climb leads us beneath the impressive west face of the Moiazza to reach Forcella Col dell’Orso at 1,823 m (5,981 ft).
Following a brief assisted section, the path continues across boulders, rare flowers, and pastures before ascending to Forcella del Camp (1,933 m / 6,342 ft), where we are greeted by a spectacular view of the spires and pinnacles of Moiazza Sud. The route then traverses through larch forests across Van dei Cantoi, where we may encounter climbers returning from the famous Via Ferrata Constantini, one of the longest and most challenging via ferrata routes in the Dolomites. Eventually, we reach Rifugio Carestiato, a perfect spot for a coffee or lunch break. The final section of the day descends through pastures and meadows to Passo Duran.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 mi), 6 hours
Elevation: +670 m (+2,198 ft), -800 m (-2,625 ft)
Luggage access: Yes
As we near the end of our adventure, we enter the Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi, the wildest national park along the Alta Via 1 trail, offering spectacular terrain. After an early start, we’ll round the southern slopes of Tamer Grande at 2,547 m (8,356 ft), passing the remains of the Moschesin garrison to reach Forcella del Moschesin at 1,940 m (6,364 ft). Our morning coffee break will be at Rifugio Pramparet, located in a wonderfully remote setting with stunning views along the Costa dei Nass valley.
Following the break, we ascend gradually to the more open Portela dei Pezedei, where the terrain becomes rockier. As we reach the western slopes of Cima de Zita, the trail narrows to a ridgeline path, which can feel exposed for a short section. Soon after, we reach the day’s highest pass at 2,451 m (8,041 ft), where we can enjoy glimpses of the Venetian plain before descending steeply to our night’s accommodation, Rifugio Pian de Fontana, perched at 1,632 m (5,354 ft).
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 16 km (10 mi), 6-7 hours
Elevation: +1,100 m (+3,608 ft), -1,030 m (-3,380 ft)
Luggage access: No
Leaving Rifugio Pian de Fontana, we first descend through pine forests to join the Alta Via Bellunesi trail. After a short ascent, we reach Forcella la Vareta at 1,704 m (5,590 ft), and then pass north of La Schiara (2,565 m), the final major summit of the route. The narrow trail offers fantastic views, with some drops, so caution is advised. The terrain is generally easy underfoot.
A steep descent leads us to our final coffee stop at Rifugio F. Bianchet. From here, we take a farm track through the forest to the valley floor, where we reach the end of the Alta Via 1 at La Stanga. A private transfers will meet us for our journey back to Cortina d’Ampezzo (1.5-hour ride).
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 mi), 4 hours
Elevation: +250 m (+820 ft), -1,600 m (-5,249 ft)
Luggage access: Yes
After breakfast, our Alta Via 1 tour officially comes to an end. If you’d like to stay longer in the area, just ask your guides for recommendations!
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Add-ons
Not included:
Not many companies offer the Alta Via 1 tour, primarily due to the reputation of the “via ferrata.” This trip has been designed to focus on the hiking aspect of the trail while avoiding via ferrata sections to comply with the legal guiding limitations of IMLs (International Mountain Leaders).
Via ferrata routes fall under the expertise of High Mountain guides, and a recommended ratio is one guide per six clients. If a via ferrata experience is of interest, the trip can be extended, and we can help you book a mountain guide for as many days as desired—just let us know!
The best available accommodation is selected, and when comparing prices with other companies, it is important to note that this trip offers a significantly higher standard of lodging. Preference is given to twin rooms over dormitories, and a comfortable, well-appointed hotel is chosen at both the start and finish of the trek.
To enhance the experience, luggage delivery has been arranged where possible, ensuring a balance between convenience and maintaining a reasonable trip cost.
In order to join this Alta Via 1 tour, great fitness is required. You will be hiking for 8 consecutive days, covering up to 18 km (11.3 mi) and gaining up to 1,685 m (5,525 ft) in a day. Day-by-day distances and elevation changes can be found in the itinerary.
The trekking is relatively strenuous, but you will follow well-maintained trails throughout the route. While several days include over 1,000 m (3,280 ft) of ascent and descent, your guide and your group will walk at a steady pace to fully enjoy the experience and scenery. This trip is suitable for regular hikers and those with a great level of fitness. Note that your luggage is not transferred every day, so you will need to carry extra items in your pack on those days.
Although the Dolomites are famous for via ferrata, there are no via ferrata sections on this version of the Alta Via 1. However, some parts of the trail traverse steep, rocky terrain, with occasional cables and fixed equipment to assist in crossing these sections.
While entirely achievable for fit hikers, the Alta Via 1 includes some exposed terrain, so it is important to be comfortable hiking in the mountains—you can’t suddenly decide to bail, for example, in the middle of the day.
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.
On this Alta Via 1 tour, your main luggage is delivered on 3 of the rifugi nights (the Pederu or Fanes, then the Staulanza or Palafavera, and at the Passo Duran). For the other 4 nights, a small wash kit, a change of clothes, a travel towel, a sleeping bag liner, and any necessary medication will need to be carried. Please ensure that the main kit bag weighs no more than 15 kg (33 lbs).
On occasions when the Rifugio Col Gallina (instead of the Lagazuoi) and/or the Rifugio Giau (instead of the Averau) are used, luggage may also be delivered to these huts.
In mountainous terrain, the weather can vary. Temperatures can reach over 30°C (86°F) in the height of summer (July/August) but can drop as low as 5°C (41°F) on the passes. The weather is often sunny and pleasant, but rain and even snow (even in July or August) are possible, so preparation for all conditions is essential. Average temperatures range from 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the valleys to 5–15°C (41–59°F) on the passes. Statistically, some rain can be expected every other day in the Dolomites, but in reality, it often falls in one go as part of an afternoon storm, so efforts are made to finish the day’s hike before that occurs.
Please bring all of the items on the essentials list for this Alta Via 1 tour. At least once per summer, unseasonal conditions make every item of the list essential. If you don’t have the full kit, you can put yourself and others at risk and the guide may ask you to leave the trip.
Luggage delivery is available on 3 of the 7 rifugi nights. For the other 4 nights, a small wash kit, a change of clothes, a travel towel, a sleeping bag liner, and any necessary medication will need to be carried.
Essential items and equipment
Optional items
Cash machines are available in Dobbiaco/Villabassa. Lunches typically cost around €10–12 per day for a packed lunch and slightly more for a sit-down meal in a rifugio, depending on the weather and the time available. For sit-down lunches, the bill is usually rounded up to leave a tip, but only when the service has been good. A coffee or soft drink costs around €3–4, and a beer around €5–6.
A budget of approximately €250 per person should generally be enough for personal expenses for this Alta Via 1 tour, though this depends on the number of coffees, beers, or wines purchased. Just note that withdrawing additional cash en route is not always an option. While some rifugi accept cards, not all do.
Tipping the guide is a customary way to express appreciation for good service. However, tipping is entirely voluntary and should only be done if the service was particularly pleasing. The amount is at personal discretion, and all staff are paid fairly.
Group sizes and pricing
Alta Via 1 tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
The starting point of your Alta Via 1 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 6pm briefing at your hotel, which is when you’ll meet the guide and fellow hikers.
Medical and travel protection is mandatory. 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
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