What you should know about mountain huts in the Dolomites

Spending the night in a mountain hut (Italian: rifugio) offers not only a place to rest but also an excellent base for exploring long Ferratas, trails, and scenic routes. Mountain huts immerse you in the natural beauty of the Dolomites, providing a unique and magical atmosphere, especially after the crowds leave.

Everything You Need to Know About Staying in a Dolomite Mountain Hut

Staying in a mountain hut in the Dolomites is more than just an overnight stop—it’s an experience that brings you closer to nature and the heart of these breathtaking mountains. Whether you’re a via ferrata enthusiast, a hiker, or simply looking for an unforgettable mountain retreat, rifugios offer a unique way to explore the Dolomites beyond the day-tripper perspective.

But how do you book a hut? What should you pack? And how much does it cost? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from reservation tips and accommodation conditions to the best huts worth staying in. By the end, you’ll be fully prepared to plan your perfect night in a Dolomite rifugio.

Table of Contents

1. Why Stay Overnight in a Mountain Hut in the Dolomites?

• Proximity to trails and ferratas: Mountain huts are often located on or near trails, making it easier to plan multi-day hikes without descending into the valley. For example, routes in the Brenta, Sesto, Sorapiss, and Catinaccio groups offer excellent opportunities to link ferratas into one longer route.
• Experience the magical atmosphere: After the daytime crowds leave, the mountain huts become peaceful, and the ambiance turns magical. The evenings are serene, with a sense of solitude and wonder only found in the mountains.
• Unforgettable sunsets and sunrises: Enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from the terrace of a rifugio. Watching the first or last light of the day illuminate the Dolomite peaks is a memory you’ll treasure forever.

2. When Do the Dolomite Mountain Huts Open in Summer

Most Dolomite mountain huts open for the summer season, typically from mid-June to mid-September, but the exact dates vary. Factors like snowfall and local regulations can influence opening and closing dates.

Key information on opening dates:

• SAT-owned huts in Brenta must be open from June 20 to September 20.
• Privately owned huts have more flexibility and can open earlier or later.
• For early or late-season trips, it’s best to contact the huts directly to confirm if they are open.

For updated information on opening dates, you can check the official websites of CAI, SAT, and Alpenverein huts.

3. How to Book a Mountain Hut in the Dolomites

There is no universal method for booking a place in a Dolomite mountain hut. Here’s how you can do it:

• Check the hut’s website: Most huts have booking options via email, phone, or even WhatsApp.
• Call directly: Some huts prefer phone calls, especially when last-minute bookings are needed.
• Advance payment: Some huts may require an advance payment to secure your spot. Check their booking policy in advance.

Pro tip: Book early for popular huts like Rifugio Lagazuoi or Rifugio Locatelli, as they fill up quickly, especially in high season. This is particularly important for larger groups, as finding multiple available beds can be challenging.

However, if you’re traveling in a small group of 2-3 people, don’t hesitate to reach out to huts even at the last minute. Cancellations happen more often than you might think, and you might be lucky enough to secure a spot just before your trip. ?

4. Accommodation and Conditions in Mountain Huts

Mountain huts offer different accommodation options and have specific rules to ensure comfort and hygiene.

What to expect in a mountain hut:

• Rooms and dormitories: Accommodation can range from shared dormitories to private double rooms.
• Bedding: Most huts provide blankets and pillows, but you are often required to bring your own sleeping bag liner or light sleeping bag.
• Footwear change: Use flip-flops or hut-provided slippers indoors.
• Showers: Available in most huts but often limited by hot water availability and short usage times.
• Meals: Meals are simple but hearty. Dinner typically includes two or three courses, while breakfast ranges from traditional Italian options (bread, jam, Nutella) to something more substantial like scrambled eggs.

5. Essential Packing List for a Mountain Hut Stay

Check here WHAT YOU NEED TO PACK FOR A MOUNTAIN HUT STAY.

6. Prices and Discounts for Accommodation and Food

Staying in a rifugio is affordable compared to hotels, but prices depend on the type of accommodation and meals you choose.

Average prices in 2024:

• Dormitory bed: From €30 to €50 per person per night.
• Private room: From €70 to €100+ per person per night.
• Meals (half board): Breakfast and dinner cost about €20 to €30 per person.

Discounts:

• Members of CAI, SAT, or Alpenverein receive 20-30% discounts on accommodation. Membership also provides accident insurance while trekking.

Example: A night at Rifugio Locatelli-Innerkofler costs around €40 per person in a dormitory, but CAI members receive a discount.

7. Best Mountain Huts in the Dolomites – Our Recommendations

If you’re looking for unforgettable stays, here are the best mountain huts in the Dolomites that we highly recommend:

1. Rifugio Averau (Passo Falzarego)

• Why we love it: Stunning sunset views, excellent cuisine and wines, and private rooms with bathrooms.
• Tip: Stay for the evening when the crowds are gone – the hut becomes a peaceful haven.

2. Rifugio Carducci (Sesto)

• Why we love it: Rich history and unique charm. The famous Bepi Monti, a mountaineer and iconic figure, runs this hut with passion and love for the mountains.

3. Rifugio Tuckett (Brenta Dolomites)

• Why we love it: This hut is a historical gem with two buildings representing Italian and Austrian mountaineering history. It’s also a key stop on the Via delle Bocchette.

4. Rifugio Fermeda (Seceda, Sas Rigais)

• Why we love it: Cozy, intimate vibe with the warmth of a mountain chalet. Perfect for photographers, as the sunset from nearby Seceda is spectacular.

If you want to learn more about our favorite routes, ferratas, and the best mountain huts in the Dolomites, check out our detailed guidebooks

Plan Your Adventure in the Dolomites

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable mountain experience, staying in a rifugio is a must. From breathtaking sunrises to magical evenings, these huts offer a deeper connection with nature.

If you found this guide useful, get our exclusive guidebook with detailed route descriptions, hut recommendations, and expert tips for hiking and climbing in the Dolomites.