Alta Via 1

Alta Via 1 (AV1), also called Alta Via delle Dolomiti n. 1, is a north–south hut-to-hut high-level footpath through the eastern Dolomites. The classic length is about 120 km, typically completed in roughly 7–12 days depending on pace and which stages you choose to link together.

The route runs from Pragser Wildsee (Lago di Braies) toward Belluno, with the highest point at Lagazuoi (around 2,752 m) and the lowest point at La Pissa (around 448 m). Most hikers plan on about 7 hours of walking per day, with daily ascents/descents averaging around 1,000 m.

It’s signposted with dark blue triangles carrying the number 1, and the “easiest” character among the alta via routes is also part of its reputation: the line stays mostly on a high footpath network and doesn’t require technical climbing equipment to complete the main route.

Expect a mix of high passes and ridges plus major landscape hubs along the way, including the Fanes area and the section around Cinque Torri. A notable high-altitude WWI-era area is around Monte Lagazuoi and Cinque Torri, with relics and tunnels connected to the history of the fighting.

Camping is not the intended style here—overnights are based on mountain refuges (rifugi/refuges) and valley accommodation, with many rifugi along the line. In July and August, advance booking is essential; many places fill quickly in the peak season.

For timing, the main hiking season is late June to mid-September, when higher sections are usually free of snow and refuges are open. A typical plan assumes summer to early autumn operations, with the route signposted and linked as a multi-day itinerary through the refuge system.

One practical “options” moment comes after Lagazuoi: the standard descent continues toward Falzarego Pass, and there’s an alternative via ferrata option through the Lagazuoi Tunnels; other descent choices include the Kaiserjaeger Trail and Martini Ledge. Stage-by-stage difficulties vary, with parts described as suitable for experienced hikers and, at the far end, via ferrata–type routing for the final link toward Belluno.

If you’re building an itinerary, think in stages rather than day hikes: a common breakdown includes stages starting at Lago di Braies/Lagazuoi and moving through refuges such as Biella, Fanes, Nuvolau, Città di Fiume, Palafavera, Vazzoler, Carestiato, Sommariva al Pramperét, Pian de Fontana, and the final approach near La Pissa (often paired with transport into Belluno).

More information: Wikipedia, Planning the Alta Via 1 | Overseashiker, Alta Via 1 Dolomites – Route, Map, Itinerary & Hut-to-Hut ...