Rifugio Tissi sits on a rocky spur directly opposite the north-west face of the Civetta, one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Alps.
The hike is demanding in climbing, but it pays you back with a view that alone justifies the effort.
How to get there — Listolade / Masaré (1.500 m)
The classic route starts from Listolade, in Val Cordevole above Agordo, where you head up Val Corpassa to the Capanna Trieste, the base at the start of the climb. Arrive by car from the Agordino, on the road that runs from Belluno towards Agordo and Caprile, with parking near the start. From here trail 555 climbs to Rifugio Vazzoler, then you carry on trail 560 to the Sella di Pelsa and finally trail 563 with the last steep pull up to Rifugio Tissi (2,262 m). As this is a long, tiring hike, set off early to have all the time you need.
The trailhead is in the Val di Zoldo e Civetta area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. Up to the Pelsa pastures
Climb from the valley floor to the meadows at the foot of the Civetta.
2. To Rifugio Tissi
A final steep pull brings you to the hut on its panoramic spur.
When to go & weather
July to September is the period to aim for, with the trail clear of snow and Rifugio Tissi open for a break or a night. With serious climbing in an alpine setting, give the shoulder seasons a miss when there is leftover snow or unstable ground. July and August are the busiest months, while September gives clearer skies, better light on the wall and fewer people. Set off early to climb at a relaxed pace and reach the hut in time to catch the Civetta at its best, in the late afternoon.
Recommended gear
- Sturdy trekking boots for the long climb up to the hut
- Telescopic poles, genuinely precious on the long climb and the descent
- Layered clothing with a windproof and waterproof shell
- Plenty of water and a packed lunch, plus the possible stop at the hut
- Hat, sunglasses and sun cream for the open pastures of the Piani di Pelsa
- A light head torch, if you plan to stay until sunset
Useful tips
- Plan the climb calmly and set off rested. The final pull on trail 563 towards the Tissi is steep and comes when your legs are already tired
- If you can, stay until late afternoon. The north-west face of the Civetta seen from the Tissi at sunset is a sight that stays with you
- Think about a night at the hut to catch dawn and dusk on the wall without the worry of the return
- Fill your bottles low down, because the water points are concentrated between the Piani di Pelsa and the higher altitude
- Check the weather carefully. The hut's panoramic, exposed spot makes settled days clearly better
Huts and rest points
- Rifugio Tissi (2250 m) — Sta proprio di fronte alla grande parete nord-ovest della Civetta. Details →
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Rifugio Tissi so famous?
For where it stands. It sits right in front of the huge north-west face of the Civetta, and at sunset, when the rock lights up, it is one of the finest views in the Dolomites.
Can you sleep at the Rifugio Tissi?
Yes. The Rifugio Tissi offers paid overnight stays and is much loved precisely for taking in dawn and sunset on the Civetta face. In high season booking is all but compulsory.
How long does it take to climb up to the Rifugio Tissi?
From the Capanna Trieste, going by way of the Vazzoler, allow on average three and a half hours of ascent, depending on your pace and stops. For the way back down to the valley reckon on a similar time.
Is the Rifugio Tissi part of the Alta Via 1?
The refuge sits in a strategic spot at the foot of the Civetta, linked to the high-altitude routes of the area and reachable also from Palafavera by way of the Coldai. Many walkers fit it into multi-day loops around the group.