The Alta Via 1 is one of Italys most famous and most popular long-distance routes and is the easiest of six Alta Via routes that traverse the magnificent Dolomites. The hut-to-hut trail extends 115km from Lago di Braies to La Pissa, boasting spectacular alpine vistas. Although it demands a moderate level of fitness, it is well waymarked and follows clear well-trodden paths, making for an ideal introduction to trekking in the Dolomites. Welcoming refuges offer meals and accommodation along the way, though camping is also possible on the middle stages (restrictions apply elsewhere).
The route is presented in 11 stages, each with overview statistics, a brief summary of the days walking and detailed route description illustrated with clear mapping. There are also comprehensive notes on the huts the route passes, with contact details and tips on facilities available. The intro includes advice on transport, accommodation and equipment, plus suggestions for creating shorter itineraries should time be limited, and there are facts about local points of interest and background information on the regions geology, plants and wildlife. A handy map booklet is also included, showing the full route of AV1 on 1:25,000 Kompass mapping, so you dont have to carry paper maps.
Famed for their striking jagged peaks and sheer rock faces, the Dolomites also bear stark reminders of the turbulent World War I years in the shape of trenches and barracks. The AV1 is a wonderful way to experience the celebrated scenery: (weather permitting) an estimated 80% of the Dolomites can be seen from the trail, with highlights including fantastic views of the Tofane, Pelmo and Civetta and the iconic Marmolada with its glacier. If this is your first visit to the region, youll soon see why so many fall under its spell!
Seasons
Alpine summer - mid-June to late September - is the time to go, so that the huts are all open for accommodation and meals and the paths mostly free of snow. Midsummer is the perfect time to enjoy the myriad wildflowers that brighten the rocky slopes and meadows and to be entertained by the frolicking marmots who are by then out of hibernation.
Centres
Lago di Braies, Cortina dAmpezzo, Agordo, Belluno
Difficulty
Alta Via 1 is a perfect introductory trek to the Dolomites and while the paths are not a seaside stroll, they are not overly difficult. No special equipment is necessary. Easier path variants are detailed where useful. Overall AV1 rates as Grade 2, suitable for fit walkers with some experience of alpine terrain and conditions.
Must See
Breathtaking views of an estimated 80% of the Dolomites, including the Tofane, Pelmo and Civetta, as well as the glaciated Marmolada; memorable stays in comfortable high-altitude alpine huts
Gillian Price has trekked throughout Asia and the Himalaya but now lives in Venice. Gillian has steadily explored the mountain ranges of Italy, and Corsica, and brought them to life for visitors in a series of outstanding guides for Cicerone. She is an active member of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) and Mountain Wilderness.
Map key Overview map Route summary table Preface to this edition Introduction The Dolomites The route Geology Plants and flowers Wildlife How to get there When to go Shorter itineraries Accommodation Food and drink What to take Maps Languages and place names Dos and donts Emergencies Using this guide Alta Via 1 Stage 1 Lago di Braies to Rifugio Biella Stage 2 Rifugio Biella to Rifugio Fanes Stage 3 Rifugio Fanes to Rifugio Lagazuoi Stage 4 Rifugio Lagazuoi to Rifugio Nuvolau Stage 5 Rifugio Nuvolau to Rifugio Citta di Fiume Stage 6 Rifugio Citta di Fiume to Rifugio Coldai Stage 7 Rifugio Coldai to Rifugio Vazzoler Stage 8 Rifugio Vazzoler to Rifugio Carestiato Stage 9 Rifugio Carestiato to Rifugio Pramperet Stage 10 Rifugio Pramperet to Rifugio Pian de Fontana Stage 11 Rifugio Pian de Fontana to La Pissa bus stop Appendix A Useful contacts Appendix B Italian-English glossary
