After a short stay in Venice/Lido, time we always factor in to our trekking adventures to assure our backpacks, arrive successfully, we were ready to begin our long awaited hike on the Alta Via 1.
Our “base camp” was a village just south of Cortina, San Vito di Cadore. With a population of around 2000, it had a “chill” vibe and enabled us to have a starting/ending point for our trek – where we could leave some luggage. We stayed in Fiori Dolomites Experience Hotel – which had wonderful accommodations, including an attached bakery and small spa!
We were able to catch a taxi from our hotel directly to the trailhead – roughly an hours drive. While do-able by public transportation, the first day’s hike was long, so we didn’t have the luxury of time. We arrived at the trailhead shortly after 8am – and after a few photo ops, were on our way.
The brief walk around Lago di Braies included some stunning views of the lake – no wonder it’s becoming a tourist destination.
Soon after circling the lake, we turned southward and immediately gained elevation. There’d been references to this as a “steep section”, and we were a bit apprehensive to have such a section at the beginning, but true to form for many trail systems in Europe, there were switchbacks.
and it was also at this time where we appreciated the “stop and smell the roses” – we’d already been treated to some amazing views looking forward, and were reminded to look backward as well – for equally amazing views.
One of the things which made the Alta Via an attractive destination were the many rifugios which dotted the route. They provided good stopping points and plenty of good food, coffee, and libations throughout the day.
soon enough, we needed to be on our way – still a number of miles to go before getting to our final destination for the day – Rifugio Pederu.
It was amazing to see the Rifugio nestled in the valley, though there was a significant descent in order to finally arrive – again, though, aided by switchbacks!
It had been a long day, 11.2 miles with a total ascent/descent of 3230/3060ft. A long day, but the accommodations were amazing – comfortable bed, hot showers, amazing food, and our favorite – Campari and soda. We were off to a great start!
