Location: Italy
Distance: 120 km
Total Elevation Gain: 6,500 metres
Duration: 8-11 days
The extraordinary Alta Via 1 runs through the heart of the exceptionally jagged, photogenic peaks of the Dolomites. While there are actually six different Alta Vias (High Routes), several of the others involve serious via ferrata (cables and ladders) so the Alta Via 1 offers the best combination of scenery, effort and comfort. While it also has a few via ferrata sections, they can be easily avoided if you prefer.
Most people take about 10 days to hike the entire Alta Via 1 route from Lago di Braies in the north to the La Pissa bus stop to the south, although it can be done in either direction and there are many different access points so you can plan your route to match your fitness and time frame.
With phenomenal mountain scenery, well-marked routes, grim WW1 historic sites and superb huts every step of the way, the Alta Via 1 is definitely one of the best long-distance treks in Europe. Maybe the most enjoyable part of the Alta Via 1 is spending each night in well-equipped, scenic mountain huts enjoying amazing food, comfortable lodging and spectacular views.
The trails aren’t usually clear of snow until the end of June and by mid-September snow is usually in the cards again, leaving a short 2.5-month window to hike one of the very best trails in the Alps.
The team at Routinely Nomadic have written an extensive guide to this trail. Click here for more – Alta Via 1: A Complete Guide to the Best Trek in the Dolomites
