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Rifugio Nuvolau/Rifugio Averau to Rifugio Croda da Lago Palmieri

Hiking route · Dolomiti d'Ampezzo, Dolomiti Bellunesi
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  • Cinque Torri
    Cinque Torri
    Photo: Minna Harshbarger, Macs Adventure

Walk from Rifugio Nuvolau to Rifugio Croda da Lago Palmieri via the Cinque Torri and it's hidden historic relics. 

difficult
Distance 8.4 km
3:35 h
399 m
894 m
2,536 m
1,694 m

From Rifugio Nuvolau return to the road at Rifugio Averau to avoid a short section of via ferrata. Pass by the Cinque Torri on route 439 (we recommend allowing a bit of time to explore the historic relics among the towers). Then follow this variant of the Alta Via 1 through orchid-filled meadows and patches of shady pine trees on route 437. A series of switchbacks is rewarded by superb views over Cortina and the valley (route 434). The final section is a pleasant stroll to Rifugio Croda da Lago G Palmieri (2066 m).

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Author
Macs Adventure
Update: May 01, 2023
Difficulty
difficult
Technique
Stamina
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
2,536 m
Lowest point
1,694 m
Best time of year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Track types

Asphalt 0.03%Dirt road 24.18%Forested/wild trail 58.04%Path 17.73%
Asphalt
0 km
Dirt road
2 km
Forested/wild trail
4.9 km
Path
1.5 km
Show elevation profile

Rest stops

Rifugio Nuvolau
Rifugio Averau
Scoiattoli Refuge
Croda Da Lago Rifugio

Safety information

 The guide book suggests taking a via ferrata route from Rifugio Nuvolau, whereas this should only be attempted with experience and the correct equipment.

Some of the path is on rocky steps; be careful as these may be slippery, especially when wet.

There are some exposed edges; be sure to read instructions carefully, stick to the main path, and don’t wander close to the edge. Use handrails where provided.

In early spring/summer there may still be patches of snow. Walk around where it is possible, and otherwise place your feet carefully and use walking poles if you have them.

This route is above 2,500 metres so bear in mind you may feel a shortness of breath and additional muscle fatigue associated with the altitude.

Tips and hints

Transport 

If you needed to divert to Cortina at this point during your walk, the easiest option is to walk from Rif. Nuvolau down to the cable car at Rif. Scoiattoli by the Cinque Torri and then descend to the road at Rif. Bain de Dones, from where you can take a bus to Cortina (see the previous page). Super jeeps operate from Cortina up to Rif. Croda di Lago; please contact the numbers in the front of this booklet should you require their services; we recommend contacting them in advance of any diversion plans - services on request. 

Start

Rifugio Nuvolau/Rifugio Averau (2,535 m)
Coordinates:
DD
46.495743, 12.045378
DMS
46°29'44.7"N 12°02'43.4"E
UTM
33T 273273 5153372
w3w 
///incomers.risked.prattle

Destination

Rifugio Croda da Lago Palmieri

Turn-by-turn directions

These maps and routes are designed to be used in conjunction with our traditional documentation. We have recently embarked on a conversion initiative to bring the two elements together, and this itinerary will be covered in due course.

In the meantime, using the two elements alongside each other should go a long way to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and problem free day.

Coordinates

DD
46.495743, 12.045378
DMS
46°29'44.7"N 12°02'43.4"E
UTM
33T 273273 5153372
w3w 
///incomers.risked.prattle
Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Equipment

Such is the way of Alpine hiking that you need to be prepared for all seasons and weathers; sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes and a waterproof/wind-break layer are all required, as is plenty of sun cream and a healthy respect for the sun.

Walking poles will be a big advantage on some of these ascents and descents.

Ensure your phone is fully charged; if you doubt the battery will last throughout the hike it might be beneficial to bring a power bank.

This walk is isolated with few opportunities to buy food or water so be sure to bring enough with you.


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Difficulty
difficult
Distance
8.4 km
Duration
3:35 h
Ascent
399 m
Descent
894 m
Highest point
2,536 m
Lowest point
1,694 m
Scenic Multi-stage route Linear route

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  • 6 Waypoints
  • 6 Waypoints
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Duration : h
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Lowest point  m
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