The Rifugio Nuvolau hike is one of the best short hikes in the Dolomites. Starting near Rifugio Scoiattoli in the Cinque Torri area, this scenic trail leads to two of the most beautiful mountain huts in the region, with incredible views of the surrounding peaks. It is the perfect hike to do after visiting the Cinque Torri.
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RIFUGIO NUVOLAU AND RIFUGIO AVERAU
Located above the Cinque Torri, Rifugio Nuvolau and Rifugio Averau are two of the most iconic mountain huts in the Dolomites. Visiting them on the same hike is one of the highlights of exploring the area near Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Rifugio Nuvolau is particularly special because it is the oldest mountain hut in the Dolomites. Built in 1883 by the Austrian-German Alpine Club, the hut sits on the summit of Mount Nuvolau at an altitude of 2575 meters. Its location offers breathtaking 360-degree views of many famous Dolomite peaks, making it one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region.
Rifugio Averau, located slightly below at 2413 meters, is known for its excellent food and welcoming atmosphere. Many hikers stop here for lunch before continuing the short but steeper climb up to Rifugio Nuvolau. The large terrace is a perfect place to relax while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and the rock towers of the Cinque Torri.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE HIKE
HOW TO GET TO the trailhead?
There are two main starting points for the hike to Rifugio Nuvolau. You can begin either at Rifugio Scoiattoli, located next to the famous Cinque Torri, or at Passo Giau. Both starting points offer beautiful routes to the two refugi and are easy to reach from Cortina d’Ampezzo. We chose the first one because we did it on the same day as our Cinque Torri hike.
No matter which one you choose, the most convenient way to reach them is by car. During the summer months, some buses run between Cortina and the trailhead. Rent your car with Auto Europe.
Getting to Rifugio Scoaittoli
From Cortina d’Ampezzo, you can drive about 15 minutes to Baita dei Dones hut, which is located along the road between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Passo Falzarego, the SS48 road.
From here, you can either take the Seggiovia Cinque Torri chair lift or hike up along the trail that runs under the chairlift.
The chairlift operates only during the summer season (between June and early October) and takes you to Rifugio Scoiattoli in just a few minutes. The chair lift runs daily between 9:00 and 17:00, and in 2025 the price for a return ticket was 27 € per person. You can check the latest updated information here.
Alternatively, if you want to save some money, you can hike up to Rifugio Scoiattoli along the trail that runs under the chairlift. However, just keep in mind that this trail is quite steep.
Parking: You can park your car for free in the big parking lot next to Baita dei Dones hut. However, during the summer months, this rifugio does tend to fill up quite fast. I recommend getting here before 9:00 if you want to be sure to get a parking spot. We arrived a bit before 9:00 and the parking lot was filling up fast.
Getting to Passo Giau
Another popular starting point is Passo Giau, which sits at 2236 meters and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. From Cortina d’Ampezzo, the drive takes around 25 minutes along a scenic mountain road.
Parking: There is a big parking lot at Passo Giau. However, during the summer months, it fills up quite fast. We arrived at 9:00, and it was already full, so we had to park quite far from the trailhead.
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU NEED TO HIKE TO RIFUGIO nUVOLAU?
The hike to Rifugio Nuvolau is relatively short, but it still takes place in a high alpine environment, so it is important to come prepared.
- A good pair of hiking shoes with solid grip is essential, especially for the rocky section between Rifugio Averau and Nuvolau.
- Bringing water and snacks is also recommended, although you can buy drinks and food at both huts.
- Even in the summer, it is wise to pack a light jacket or windbreaker. Temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations, and the summit around Rifugio Nuvolau can be quite windy.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also useful since much of the trail is exposed to the sun.
- Hiking poles are not mandatory, but I always bring them to help my knees.
- Finally, don’t forget your camera or smartphone. The panoramic views over the Cinque Torri and surrounding peaks are some of the best in the region.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO RIFUGIO NUVOLAU HIKE?
The best time to hike to Rifugio Nuvolau is from late June to early October, when the trails are snow-free and fully accessible. During this period, the weather is generally stable, and the hiking paths are well maintained.
July and August are the most popular months, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours, but they are also the busiest time of year. But don’t worry too much about this. We did this hike in August, and yes, there were people here, but it was not overcrowded. The online thing you have to worry about is being there early enough to get a parking spot.
June and September are often considered the ideal months if you prefer a quieter experience.
RIFUGIO NUVOLAU HIKE
HIKE STATS
Trail Start/End – Rifugio Scoiattoli, accessible from Baita dei Dones hut, where you can take a chairlift or hike up.
Distance – 5 km
Elevation Gain – 325 m
Level – Moderate
Route Type – Out & Back
Estimated Time Needed – 2 to 2,5 hours (including plenty of time to stop for photos). Remember to stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks.
Best Time To Visit – June to September to ensure the best weather conditions.
HIKE STATS
I always use the AllTrails App during my hikes. The app has a GPX map that can help you stay on the right trail during your hikes. For this hike, we followed the Cinque Torri – Averau, Nuvolau Trail. We added the hike up to Nuvolau from Rifugio Averau, which is not included in the trail.
MY EXPERIENCE HIKING TO RIFGIO NUVOLAU - STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Hiking from Rifugio Scoiattoli to Rifugio Averau
We did this hike after our tour around Cinque Torri, so we started our hike directly at Rifugio Scoiattoli. If this hike is the first thing you do in the day, then you’ll first have to get a chairlift from Baita dei Dones to Rifugio Scoiattoli.
From Rifugio Scoiatolli, the trail is wide and gains elevation gradually. It is quite straightforward, as you will have Rifugio Averau constantly in your sight. This part is not too demanding, but I do suggest you take a few breaks along the way to turn around and enjoy the beautiful views behind you.
Rifugio Averau
Rifugio Averau is located at Forcella Nuvolau. Once you reach it, you get beautiful views of the other side of the valley, Val Fiorentina and Val Badia. And of course, if you turn around, you can see the Cinque Torri and the impressive Tofana di Rozes.
Depending on your energy and the time of the day, you can either rest at the refugio or continue to Nuvolau. In our case, we decided to continue until Nuvolau and have lunch there.
Hiking to Nuvolau Hut
From Averau, the trail that continues toward Rifugio Nuvolau, which can already be seen perched on the summit above. The trail quickly becomes rockier and slightly steeper as it climbs toward the summit of Mount Nuvolau. While the trail follows the ridge for part of the way, it is relatively wide, so you’ll find it manageable with a bit of careful footing.
As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly impressive. Behind you, the dramatic towers of Cinque Torri stand out against the surrounding landscape, while the massive cliffs of Tofana di Rozes dominate the skyline. On a clear day, the panorama from the section of the trail is absolutely breathtaking.
Rifugio Nuvolau
After a short but rewarding climb, you will reach Rifugio Nuvolau, one of the most spectacularly located huts in the Dolomites. One of the best things to do here is simply sit down and enjoy a well-deserved lunch with a view. The setting is hard to beat. I tried the beetroot gnocchi, and they were absolutely delicious.
After lunch, take some time to admire the 360-degree views around the hut. From the summit, you can clearly see the striking towers of Cinque Torri, as well as the imposing cliffs of Tofana di Rozes. And if you’re lucky with a clear day, you can even see the Marmolada peaks in the distance.
This is also the perfect occasion to relax and take a short nap on top of Mount Nuvolau. With fresh mountain air and panoramic views in every direction, it might be one of the most scenic nap spots in the Dolomites.
The descent back to Rifugio Scoaittoli
After spending some time at Rifugio Nuvolau, it is time to start your return. You simply have to retrace your steps back down the same trail, first descending to Rifugio Averau and then continuing toward Rifugio Scoiattoli.
The descent is generally quite easy, but the rocky section is steep. This is where hiking poles can be very helpful, especially if the trail is slightly wet. Taking your time and watching your footing will make the descent comfortable and enjoyable.
That said, the biggest thing that might slow you down is not the trail itself, but the incredible scenery around you. You’ll likely find yourself stopping often to admire the landscape or take a few more photos.
Once you’re back at Rifugio Scoiattoli, you can already go back down to the parking lot on the chairlift or rest for a while in the long chairs next to the Rifugio.
OTHER HIKES TO DO NEAR RIFUGIO NUVOLAU
If you have extra time after this hike, there are several trails nearby that are well worth exploring.
- Cinque Torri loop trail. This trail circles the dramatic rock towers and passes through the fascinating Cinque Torri Open-Air Museum. Along the route, you can see restored trenches and wartime tunnels from Word War I.
- Lagazuoi Tunnels. The easiest route is to take the cable car to reach the summit and then descend through the World War I tunnels. The views from the top are spectacular.
- Passo Giau. For an even more stunning scenery, you can consider visiting Passo Giau, where you can also do a short walk to Torre Anna.
- Lago Limides. Another short and easy hike to complete in the Falzarego Pass. The hike leads to a small but beautiful lake that often reflects the surrounding peaks on its waters.
RIFUGIO NUVOLAU HIKE: FAQ
HOW LONG IS THE RIFUGIO NUVOLAU HIKE?
The hike to Rifugio Nuvolau from Rifugio Scoiattoli is relatively short but very rewarding. The round-trip distance is roughly 5 kilometers depending on the exact route you take. It took us, including time to have lunch at the mountain hut.
CAN BEGINNERS HIKE TO RIFUGIO NUVOLAU?
Yes, beginners can absolutely hike to Rifugio Nuvolau as long as they are moderately fit. The final climb to the hut is a bit steep and rocky, but if you take your time, wear proper hiking shoes, and don’t rush, you’ll be fine.
IS THE TRAIL FAMILY FRIENDLY?
For families with older children who enjoy hiking, the trail to Rifugio Nuvolau can be a great adventure. The hike is not very long and offers spectacular views along the way.
The section up to Rifugio Averau is relatively gentle, while the final climb to Rifugio Nuvolau is steeper and rockier. Families with younger children may prefer to stop at Rifugio Averau and enjoy the views from there.
IS THE HIKE TO RIFUGIO NUVOLAU WORTH IT?
Absolutely. The hike to Rifugio Nuvolau is one of the most rewarding short hikes in the Dolomites. The summit location of the hut provides incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Standing on top of Mount Nuvolau and looking out over the dramatic landscape, including the rock towers of Cinque Torri, is an experience that will stay with you forever.
CAN YOU COMBINE THIS HIKE WITH CINQUE TORRI?
Yes, and I highly recommend it. The hike to Rifugio Nuvolau pairs perfectly with a visit to Cinque Torri.
We explored Cinque Torri before hiking to Mount Nuvolau and it was a perfect activity for us.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR CINQUE TORRI AND NUVOLAU?
Rifugio Novulau is located near Cortina d’Ampezzo, so the most ideal place to look for your accommodation would be this town. However, prices are a bit high in Cortina, so if you’re traveling on a lower budget or you just want to save some money, then I would recommend looking for accommodation just outside Cortina.
Hotel Al Sasso di Stria
Hotel Al Sasso di Stria offers family rooms with private bathrooms and is conveniently located in the Falzarego Pass. You will only have to drive a few minutes down the road to reach Baita dei Dones.
Photos from Booking.com
Hotel Croda Rossa
Hotel Croda Rossa is a charming hotel with a great location. The hotel is located on a beautiful valley with great views of Monte Cristallo. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. The garden is perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking in the Dolomites.
We stayed at this hotel for 6 nights and had a fantastic day here. The only downside to this hotel was the food which was not very good. We solved it by having dinner either at Cortina or Dobbiaco.
MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.
HIKE SUMMARY AND INFOGRAPHIC
FINAL THOUGHTS
The hike to Rifugio Nuvolau is one of those trails that perfectly captures what makes hiking in the Dolomites so special. In just a few hours, you experience dramatic mountain scenery, panoramic viewpoints, and the unique atmosphere of traditional Dolomite rifugios.
If you are exploring the area around Cortina d’Ampezzo, this hike is an easy addition to your itinerary. Combined with a visit to the nearby towers of Cinque Torri, it makes for one of the most scenic and rewarding days in the Dolomites.
Have you hiked to Rifugio Nuvolau? Let me know what you thought in the comments section!
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