The Rifugio Nuvolau Excursion  is undoubtedly one of the most evocative and exciting of the Dolomites, a World Heritage Site. In fact, its popularity derives from the fact that the famous Nuvolau rifugio is located in a strategic and breathtaking point, on the summit of the homonymous mountain, at an altitude of 2,575 meters, in the Nuvolau Group.

It is located a few minutes from the famous Cortina d'Ampezzo, which is surrounded by impressive mountain ranges including the Cristallo Group, the Sorapiss Group and the Croda da Lago Group, which stand out and attract mountain enthusiasts every year. Among this section stand out above all the peaks of the Tofane, with the Tofana di Mezzo 3,244 meters high and Monte Cristallo 3,221 high.

The rifugio Nuvolau excursion is one of the most satisfying walks that can be taken, in fact just turn your gaze to admire the Marmolada, the Civetta, the Pale di San Martino, the Sassolungo, the Pelmo and the Lagazuoi, a 360 degree panorama really lovely.

The first refuge in the entire Ampezzo valley, built with the contribution left by Baron Richard von Meerheimb of Dresden, who was healed of a serious illness in these valleys, was inaugurated on 11 August 1883 with the name of Sachsendankhutte. Destroyed during the fierce fighting of the First World War, it was recovered from the Cortina section in 1930.

The ascent is possible from different points of the mountain range, along spectacular trails, such as from Passo Giau, from Rifugio Fedare, from Passo Falzarego and from Rifugio Scoiattoli through the Cinque Torri. Your excursion to the Nuvolau Rifugio begins at the Falzarego Pass, at an altitude of 2,105 meters, which for most of the route coincides with the famous Alta Via delle Dolomiti n.1. From the pass, follow the CAI path 441, through large boulders and gentle green meadows until you reach the deviation that leads to the pretty Lake Limides, (junction not mandatory).

Here the path begins to be steeper, climbs through a narrow crack at the foot of the Croda Negra, up to the Forcella Averau at 2,435 meters. Continue along the imposing peak of Mount Averau, accompanied by a breathtaking view of the Giau Pass, finally passing the Forcella Nuvolau you arrive at the Averau Rifugio, an ideal spot for those who come to ski in winter. We continue along the CAI 438 path, heading east, where we enjoy an even more extraordinary view of the surrounding mountain groups thanks to the very exposed position.

The Nuvolau Rifugio is considered by many to be the terrace of the Dolomites, once up there you understand why ... The excursion is suitable for anyone, despite this the mountain must always be respected and attended seriously, there are many guides available to accompany you in case you don't feel completely safe.

The route is always very popular with people on a walk and also with families. Pay attention to the ice that forms during the coldest periods. We recommend a calm pace, to enjoy the wonderful landscape that will surround you.

• Info Rifugio Nuvolau Excursion
  Start: Falzarego Pass 2,105 meters
  Arrival: Nuvolau Rifugio 2,575 meters
  Duration: 2:30 h
  Difference in altitude: 600 meters
  CAI trail sign: 441 - 438
  Difficulty: E (Medium)
  Lunch / dinner: In the Refuges - packed
  Suitable for: Families, Dogs, Hikers
  Notes: Presence of short exposed sections, a sure step is required.