The oldest hut in the Dolomites, perched in an elevated position above the Cinque Torri.
Rifugio Nuvolau is the oldest hut in the Ampezzano Dolomites. It opened on 11 August 1883 under the German name Sachsendankhütte, "the Saxon thanksgiving hut." It perches like an eagle's nest on the summit of the mountain it is named after, at 2,575 metres, above the Cinque Torri group. From this lone peak the view runs full circle and is about as complete as it gets near Cortina, summits as far as you can see in every direction. The shape of the hut on its rocky top is one of the most recognisable sights in the Dolomites, and since 1906 the people who have run it have been part of the story of Cortina's mountaineers.
You walk in from the Cinque Torri area or from Passo Giau, on scenic trails that cross some of the best country around Cortina before the final pull to the top. The kitchen keeps it simple and honest, the way a traditional hut should. With barely twenty beds it is tiny, and that makes it hard to get into. But staying the night is a real summit bivouac, hung between dawn and dusk, and the small size only makes it feel more its own.
The easiest start is from the Cinque Torri area, which you reach by car off the Passo Falzarego road, where there is parking at the start of the trails. In high season a chairlift climbs towards the Cinque Torri plateau and shortens the first stretch, but the final pull to the summit is always on foot. As an alternative you can start from Passo Giau, which also has parking at the pass. The climb usually takes two to three hours depending on where you start, with a steeper final stretch. The good season runs from late June to late September, when the snow has melted and the hut is open. Avoid days with thunderstorms, as the summit is exposed.
Services & info
Trails passing through Rifugio Nuvolau
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Rifugio Nuvolau?
You walk in from the Cinque Torri area or from Passo Giau, on scenic trails that climb to the summit, with a steeper pull at the end.
Can I stay overnight at Rifugio Nuvolau?
Yes, but with barely twenty beds it is tiny and much in demand. Book well ahead or you almost certainly will not get in.
Why is Rifugio Nuvolau famous?
Because it is the oldest hut in the Ampezzano Dolomites, opened in 1883, and it sits right on the summit, with a full-circle view that is among the best near Cortina.
Where do I park for Rifugio Nuvolau?
In the Cinque Torri area, reached by car off the Passo Falzarego road, there is parking at the start of the trails. In high season a chairlift shortens the first climb; fares and times are worth checking for the current year. Passo Giau also has a car park at the pass.
How long is the climb to Rifugio Nuvolau?
From the Cinque Torri area or Passo Giau it usually takes two to three hours, with a steeper final stretch to the summit. It is a steady climb that pays off with a full-circle view. Take it slowly and set off early on hot days.