From hut to hut
A journey from mountain hut to mountain hut beneath the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites — an experience like no other
The Alta Via 1 of the Dolomites is the most famous long-distance trek in the Dolomites and among the most iconic hiking routes in the world. Stretching for 125 km with about 7,300 m of total ascent, it runs from Lago di Braies in South Tyrol all the way to Belluno.
The complete itinerary takes 10-12 days of walking, with daily stages of 10-20 km and varying elevation gains, crossing valleys, larch and Swiss pine forests, Dolomite passes, and timeless landscapes.
The charm of the Alta Via also lies in its overnight stays: cozy mountain huts and alpine farms, where a warm atmosphere and hearty local cuisine make each stop a memorable part of the journey.
To walk the Alta Via is to embrace an adventure blending nature, sport, and alpine culture — perfect for anyone dreaming of an immersive experience among the UNESCO-listed Dolomites.
The best time to tackle the route is between late June and late September. July and August are the busiest months, while September offers spectacular colors and greater tranquility.
10–12 stages
Approximately 125 km
Around 7,300 meters
Around 8,400 meters
The original Alta Via 1 route stretches from the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies to Belluno, crossing some of the most celebrated mountain ranges of the Dolomites: Croda del Becco, Fanes, Lagazuoi, Cinque Torri, Civetta, Pelmo, Marmolada, and the Belluno Dolomites. You can also customize your itinerary, choosing to hike only a few stages and staying overnight in the mountain huts that inspire you most.
Dreaming of hiking the Alta Via 1? Set off on one of the most iconic trekking routes in the Dolomites with a tailor-made itinerary, carefully planned down to the smallest detail.
Elevation: +900 m / +2,950 ft, -60 m / -200 ft | Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles | Time: 3h 30
Elevation: +565 m / +1,850 ft, -830 m / -2,720 ft | Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles | Time: 4h 30
Elevation: +1,070 m / +3,510 ft, -375 m / -1,230 ft | Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles | Time: 5h
Elevation: +635 m / +2,085 ft, -810 m / -2,660 ft | Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles | Time: 5h 30
Elevation: +260 m / +855 ft, -915 m / -3,000 ft | Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles | Time: 4h 30
Elevation: +580 m / +1,900 ft, -990 m / -3,250 ft | Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles | Time: 5h 30
Elevation: +850 m / +2.790 ft, -650 m / -2.130 ft | Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles | Time: 6h
Elevation: +550 m / +1.805 ft, -430 m / -1.410 ft | Distance: 8 km / 5.0 miles | Time: 4h
Elevation: +450 m / +1.475 ft, -430 m / -1.410 ft | Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles | Time: 5h
Elevation: +540 m / +1.770 ft, -760 m / -2.495 ft | Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles | Time: 3h
Elevation: +830 m / +2.725 ft, -195 m / -640 ft | Distance: 7.5 km / 4.7 miles | Time: 7h
Elevation: +100 m / +330 ft | Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles | Time: 6h
Want a taste of the Alta Via 1? We offer two unique experiences designed for you, guided safely by an expert Alpine Guide — discover them now!
The Alta Via is suitable for hikers with good physical fitness and some mountain experience. It’s not recommended for complete beginners.
The itineraries we offer do not include any via ferrata sections, so there’s no need to bring specialized climbing equipment.
The charm of the Alta Via 1 is also found in the experience of spending the night in mountain huts.
Accommodation is usually in shared dormitories with bunk beds, or, where available, private rooms. Bathrooms and showers are shared. Lightweight sheets or sleeping bag liners are generally provided or available for rent, while towels are not always included—it’s best to check in advance whether you need to bring your own. A warm duvet is always provided.
Most huts supply slippers to use in the sleeping areas. If you prefer not to use the shared ones, pack your own lightweight pair.
Mobile connection is often weak or unavailable, and Wi-Fi is rare—making it the perfect chance to enjoy the company of fellow hikers. The common rooms become the true heart of the hut, where card games, stories, and laughter turn into new friendships. Electronic devices can usually be charged in shared areas.
With half-board accommodation, huts serve traditional Dolomitic cuisine: dinners feature local pasta dishes, hearty mains, and regional desserts, while mornings start with a generous breakfast before setting off on the trail.
Lights usually go out around 10:00 PM, in keeping with the rhythm of mountain life.
Nearly all huts also prepare packed lunches or sandwiches for the next day’s trek and are happy to refill bottles with water or hot tea—a simple but valuable detail for tackling each stage safely.
Wear layered technical clothing, hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and bring a hat and sunglasses. It’s also important to pack warm layers for the evening, as temperatures can drop quickly. Trekking poles are highly recommended.
In the mountains, weather conditions can change rapidly, and it’s not always possible to predict them. Even in summer, cold days and light snowfall at higher altitudes are possible — so it’s best to be prepared for anything.
Bring only the essentials for the trek, along with warm layers to protect yourself in case of bad weather or for cooler evenings.
For overnight stays in the huts, pack everything you need for personal hygiene (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, deodorant, etc.) and a change of clothes for the night. A pair of earplugs can be surprisingly useful 🙂
Don’t forget the chargers for your electronic devices.
Optional extras: slippers, a headlamp, and a power bank.
In mountain huts, internet connection is often slow or unavailable, especially during bad weather. It’s therefore highly recommended to always carry some cash (euros) with you.
Yes, luggage transfer can be arranged along most of the route — one duffel bag or backpack per person (no trolleys or suitcases), with a maximum weight of 8–10 kg. However, there are a few huts where this service is not available. In those cases, you’ll need to carry everything you need for the night and the following day in your backpack.
Hiring an Alpine Guide is not mandatory, but it can greatly enhance the experience with local knowledge, safety, and engaging stories about the mountains.
Moreover, in case of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances requiring changes to the original route, having a local Alpine Guide by your side is an invaluable advantage.
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to hike only certain sections of the route, depending on your abilities and preferences.
Our group departures typically include 6–7 nights in mountain huts, but it’s also possible to organize a customized experience — choosing the number of nights and making any desired adjustments to the itinerary.
Summer generally brings mostly sunny days, though afternoon showers or thunderstorms are possible. While rare, fresh snow can occasionally fall on the higher passes, even in mid-summer — so it’s always best to set out well prepared.
Only a few short, easier stages — carefully chosen considering the children’s age and experience.
Yes, it’s possible. Mountain huts are accustomed to accommodating guests with dietary needs, including celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or other food restrictions. However, menu options may be limited, so it’s important to inform the huts of any intolerances or allergies when booking.
However, menu options may be limited, so it’s important to inform the huts of any intolerances or allergies when booking.
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