Alta Via – The Iconic Trails of the Italian Dolomites

Durations

15 Days

Difficulty

Medium

Min Age

5

Activity Overview:

The Alta Via (“High Route”) trails are a network of long-distance hiking routes that traverse the majestic Dolomites in northern Italy. Among the most famous are Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2, renowned for their dramatic limestone scenery, well-maintained rifugi (mountain huts), and a perfect mix of adventure and comfort. Whether you choose a multi-day point-to-point journey or a shorter section, these trails offer one of Europe’s most unforgettable hiking experiences.


What’s Included:

  • Suggested itinerary for Alta Via 1 (suitable for moderate hikers)

  • Information on rifugi reservations and half-board lodging

  • Daily distances, elevation gains, and trail highlights

  • Luggage transport (optional), route maps, and GPX tracking advice

  • Optional: guided or self-guided trek planning


What’s Not Included:

  • Transport to/from trail start and end points (can be arranged)

  • Hiking gear, insurance, or mountain rescue coverage

  • Meals and snacks outside of included hut meals

  • Via ferrata equipment (unless doing Alta Via 2 or other technical variants)


Suggested 6-Day Alta Via 1 Itinerary (Classic Section)

🟩 Moderate Difficulty – ideal for fit hikers with good mountain experience

🥾 Day 1 – Lago di Braies to Rifugio Sennes

  • Start at the stunning Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

  • Climb through forest and alpine pastures to Rifugio Sennes

  • Distance: ~12 km | Ascent: 850 m | Time: 5–6 hrs

  • Overnight in high-alpine hut with panoramic views

⛰️ Day 2 – Rifugio Sennes to Rifugio Lagazuoi

  • Hike past Fodara Vedla, cross the Forcella del Lago

  • Descend to Lago di Lagazuoi, then steep climb to Rifugio Lagazuoi (cable car optional)

  • Distance: ~15 km | Ascent: 900 m | Descent: 500 m

  • Sunset over the Tofane massif is unforgettable

🏔️ Day 3 – Rifugio Lagazuoi to Rifugio Nuvolau

  • Descend past WWI tunnels (optional detour via via ferrata)

  • Hike through the Cinque Torri area to Rifugio Nuvolau, perched on a cliff

  • Distance: ~11 km | Moderate ups and downs

  • Epic photography stop – one of the highest and oldest rifugi

🌿 Day 4 – Rifugio Nuvolau to Rifugio Città di Fiume

  • Hike through Passo Giau, descend via green valleys to Fiume hut

  • Optional detour to Monte Mondeval for prehistoric sites

  • Distance: ~14 km | Descent dominant | Time: 5–6 hrs

🌄 Day 5 – Rifugio Città di Fiume to Rifugio Vazzoler

  • Trail passes under the Pelmo and Civetta massifs

  • Beautiful forested sections and wildflower meadows

  • Distance: ~15 km | Time: 6–7 hrs | Moderate elevation gain

🌲 Day 6 – Rifugio Vazzoler to La Pissa (exit)

  • Final descent through the Val Corpassa to the roadhead at La Pissa

  • Transfer to Belluno or Cortina available

  • Distance: ~10 km | Time: 3–4 hrs


Additional Notes:

  • Season: Late June to mid-September (huts open seasonally)

  • Level: Alta Via 1 is moderate; Alta Via 2 includes via ferrata and requires experience

  • Accommodation: Mountain huts offer beds, warm meals, and cozy atmospheres

  • Luggage: Usually carried by the hiker; luggage transfer available on some tours

  • Cuisine: Expect polenta, strudel, hearty stews, local wines, and Italian espresso at altitude!

  • Wildlife: Look for marmots, ibex, choughs, and eagles

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