TREK · Italy

Alta Via 1

Alta Via N. 1 dei Dolomiti

Dolomiti, Italia Utara (Südtirol–Veneto–Belluno) · Italy Multi-day

Information

Distance: 120.0 km
Duration: 7–12 days
Max elevation: 2,752 m
Country: Italy (IT)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous — the most popular alta via in the Dolomites, with some technical sections in the south demanding excellent physical condition
Best Season: Late June–mid September
Permits & Fees: No permit required; rifugio reservations are essential in peak season (July–August)

Description

Alta Via 1 is a classic ~120 km hut-to-hut trekking route traversing Italy's Dolomites — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — from Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) in South Tyrol south to Belluno, and is widely considered the most popular alta via (high route) in the Dolomites. The trail passes iconic Dolomite scenery: emerald alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, towering limestone formations such as Cinque Torri, and WWI historical sites around Lagazuoi. The highest point is Rifugio Lagazuoi at 2,752 m, offering a 360° panorama of the Tofana and Marmolada massifs. The route is typically completed in 7–12 days staying at rifugi, with no permit required — though early hut reservations are strongly advised given the trail's popularity.

Trail Highlights

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee), Cinque Torri, Rifugio Lagazuoi (2,752 m), Passo Falzarego, Passo Giau, Monte Civetta, Monte Pelmo, and the iconic limestone towers of the UNESCO Dolomites

Trekking Experiences

Real stories & vlogs from people who did the trek. Click to explore.

References

The summary above was compiled from the following sources.