Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites: a legendary trek through the Italian Alps
What is the Alta Via 1?
A legendary hiking route in the Dolomites
The Alta Via 1 is a long-distance trail, but it is much more than that — it is one of the most iconic treks in the Italian Dolomites, in northern Italy, often called the “classic high route.” Stretching across some of the most breathtaking mountains in the Alps, it represents the essence of trekking in the heart of the Dolomites: jagged limestone peaks, enchanting alpine lakes, charming rifugios, and a sense of timeless wilderness.
The name “Alta Via” means “high route” in Italian, and it perfectly captures the spirit of this multi-day Dolomites hike. To walk the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites is to be immersed in its beauty, moving from valley to valley through dramatic landscapes. It is considered a bucket-list experience for hikers worldwide, comparable to the Tour du Mont Blanc or the Walker's Haute Route, yet it has its own unique Italian flair. The network of trails known as the Alta Vias offers something for everyone.
Overview of the Alta Via 1 trail
The Alta Via 1route begins beside the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies, near Dobbiaco, and concludes in the southern Dolomites at La Pissa, near Belluno. Covering approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles), the hike on Alta Via 1 typically takes between 8 and 12 days, depending on the pace and any detours.
- Start point: Lago di Braies (1,496 m)
- End point: La Pissa bus stop near Belluno (320 m)
- Distance: approx. 120 km
- Elevation gain/loss: around 7,000 m ascent and descent
- Main highlights along the route: Rifugio Lagazuoi, Cinque Torri, the Tofane group near Alta Badia, the wild Civetta and Pelmo, and countless huts along the Alta Via.
Planning your Alta Via 1 hike
Alta Via 1 itinerary and best time to hike
The Alta Via 1 itinerary can be adapted to suit your time and fitness. While the standard route is 8–12 days, some travelers choose shorter sections. It's certainly possible to hike just part of the route and still experience its magic. For instance, a day hike around Cinque Torri or a hut hike to Rifugio Lagazuoi offers a taste of the trails, which is a feature of many routes like the Alta Via network or the Via Alpina.
The best time to hike the Alta Via 1 is from late June to mid-September, when the rifugios are open, trails are clear of snow, and wildflowers carpet the meadows. July offers long sunny days, while September is quieter, with golden larches and crisp alpine air.
Hut to hut hiking in the Dolomites
One of the most memorable parts of the Alta Via 1 trek is the hut-to-hut hiking experience. The route is dotted with welcoming rifugios (mountain huts) that provide hearty meals, warm beds, and unforgettable sunsets from their terraces. Staying in a hut means you don’t need to carry camping gear, making the journey lighter and more comfortable.
Some of the most famous Alta Via 1 rifugios include Rifugio Lagazuoi, perched high in the Dolomites above the Falzarego Pass, with one of the best panoramas in the Alps, and the huts around Cinque Torri, where history and nature blend along former World War I paths.
What to expect along the Alta Via 1 route
The alpine scenery
Every step along the Alta Via 1 unveils new landscapes: the mirror-like surface of Lago di Braies, the dramatic cliffs of Tofane, the towers of Cinque Torri, and the quiet pastures of the Civetta. You’ll pass through forests, across scree slopes, past alpine lakes, and stand in awe before the highest mountain in the Dolomites.
The challenge and the reward
How difficult is the Alta Via 1? It is considered a moderate multi-day hike. The trails are well marked, and while no technical climbing is required for the Alta Via 1 without detours, some via ferrata sections or steep paths may be part of optional side routes. The real challenge is one of endurance: hiking for a week or more, often for 5 to 7 hours per day. But the reward is immense — each evening you reach a cozy mountain hut, share stories with fellow hikers, and watch the alpine glow paint the peaks before the end of the route.
Packing list for the Alta Via 1 hike.
Preparing the right gear is essential. Here’s a compact packing list for those who want to complete the Alta Via 1:
- Backpack (35–45 L) with rain cover
- Hiking boots with a good grip
- Breathable clothing and layers (base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket)
- Trekking poles
- Refillable water bottle or hydration system
- Snacks (nuts, energy bars)
- Sleeping liner (required in most rifugios)
- Headlamp
- Map or GPS (though trails are well marked)
- Optional: via ferrata kit if you plan to explore side routes with via ferratas
Tips for a successful trek on Alta Via 1
- Book the rifugios in advance: popular huts fill quickly, a fact well-documented in guides like Cicerone’s Alta Via 1.
- Check the weather: Alpine storms can appear suddenly; start early each day.
- Travel light: avoid overpacking; every kilo counts on a long trek.
- Eat well: meals in rifugios are part of the cultural experience — don’t miss polenta, strudel, and hearty soups.
- Orientation: while the Alta Via 1 trail is well marked, always carry a map.
- Escape routes: some passes allow descent into valleys in case of fatigue or bad weather.
Why hike the Alta Via 1 with us
Book the Alta Via 1 with InfoDolomites
At InfoDolomites, we know the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites inside out. We help travelers plan and enjoy an Alta via 1 self-guided adventure without stress. From securing the best Alta Via 1 huts to arranging luggage transfers and tailoring your itinerary, we make your journey seamless. This level of support is why so many people hike the Alta Via with us.
With our local knowledge, you’ll discover not only the classic highlights but also hidden gems along the trail. The Dolomites offer countless opportunities. Whether you dream of an unforgettable trek, a few selected hikes, or even combining routes like Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2 or Alta Via 3, we ensure your Dolomites adventures are safe and enriching. When you visit the Dolomites, let us be your guide! Discover the Alta Via 1
