About the trek
Imagine waking up to the scent of alpine wildflowers and the sight of rose-tinted limestone towers piercing the sky. The Dolomites Alta Via 1 is a sensory feast for trekkers who crave both beauty and adventure. This 120km high route is a symphony of lush meadows, dramatic cliffs, and serene mountain refugios. As you traverse from Lago di Braies to Belluno, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape that's both enchanting and exhilarating. The trail is a mosaic of meadow-clad paths, punctuated by via ferrata sections that offer a thrilling edge. You'll sleep in charming refugios, each with its own story, and wake up to panoramic views that seem almost unreal. This trek is for those who seek a balance between scenic beauty and moderate challenge, offering a rewarding experience that's as much about the journey as the destination.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Traverses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites, offering unparalleled scenic beauty.
- 02Features via ferrata sections for an added thrill, making it more than just a walk in the meadows.
- 03Stay in iconic mountain refugios that offer a taste of local Dolomites culture and hospitality.
- 04Crosses the famous Cinque Torri, a geological wonder that's a photographer's dream.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Lago di Braies
🚩 Starting Point
Rifugio Biella
Waypoint 1
Rifugio Lagazuoi
▲ Highest Point
Cinque Torri
Waypoint 3
Rifugio Nuvolau
Waypoint 4
Belluno
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Lago di Braies
1,496m
Rifugio Biella
2,327m
Rifugio Lagazuoi
2,752m
Cinque Torri
2,137m
Rifugio Nuvolau
2,575m
Belluno
383m
Start
1,496m
Peak
2,752m
Total Gain
+1,256m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Jul
BESTHeavy Monsoon
10–20°C
Aug
BESTHeavy Monsoon
10–20°C
Sep
BESTPost-Monsoon
10–20°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Bolzano Airport, Bolzano, 100km
Nearest Railway
Bolzano Railway Station, 100km
Flight to Bolzano, then local transport, ₹30,000, 24hrs
Train to Milan, then local transport, ₹20,000, 48hrs
Direct road not feasible, consider flight or train
Flight to Bolzano, then local transport, ₹32,000, 24hrs
Train to Milan, then local transport, ₹22,000, 48hrs
Direct road not feasible, consider flight or train
Flight to Bolzano, then local transport, ₹35,000, 24hrs
Train to Mumbai, then flight to Bolzano, ₹25,000, 36hrs
Direct road not feasible, consider flight or train
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or taxi from Dobbiaco to Lago di Braies.
Pro tip: Book your transport and accommodation in advance, especially in peak season.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹30,000–₹70,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide.
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹7,000 – ₹8,000 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- Approach shoes or hiking boots
- Trekking poles
- Backpack 40L
- Via ferrata set (harness + lanyard)
clothing
- Warm fleece
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking pants
- Via ferrata gloves
- Sun hat
essentials
- Rifugio reservations (mandatory July-August)
- Cash (Euros for rifugios)
- Detailed Kompass maps
Safety Tips
- 1Some sections require via ferrata equipment — rent at Cortina d'Ampezzo
- 2Thunderstorms are common by afternoon — start early and shelter by 2-3pm
Permit & Entry Info
No trail permits. Rifugio fees: €30-45/dormitory bed, €20-30 dinner. Book online 3-6 months ahead for July-August.
Emergency Contacts
Soccorso Alpino (Mountain Rescue)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Dolomites Alta Via 1 is rated as moderate, involving daily treks of 10-20km with moderate altitude gains. It's suitable for experienced trekkers.
The best months are June, July, August, and September when the weather is stable, and the meadows are in full bloom.
The cost ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹70,000, covering transport, food, permits, and guide if hired.
No specific permit is required, but some refugios may charge a fee for overnight stays.
It's not recommended for absolute beginners due to its length and some technical sections.
The max altitude is 2752m. Altitude sickness is possible; acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
Essentials include sturdy trekking boots, layers, a waterproof jacket, a good backpack, and a first-aid kit.
The nearest city is Bolzano. Take a train to Dobbiaco, then a local bus or taxi to Lago di Braies.
The total distance is 120km, broken down into daily treks of 10-20km.
While possible, hiring a guide is recommended for a safer and more enriching experience.
Day temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, while nights can drop to 5°C in the best season.
Mobile network is sporadic, and ATMs are scarce; carry enough cash for expenses.
Have more questions? Use the AI planner above for personalised answers.
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