The hike starts at the Col Gallina car park adjacent to the Falzarego Pass. At the beginning of the trail, there is a fork in the path where we bear right, while later, we return from the left. A pleasant forest path leads us to Lake Limides, which lies in a small depression and reflects the surrounding Dolomites – making it a popular place for both professional and amateur photographers. The reflection of Mount Lagazuoi is particularly beautiful when viewed from the southeast. At the lake’s western shore, the trail continues and soon becomes a wide path that climbs steeply. As you proceed, you will see the winter infrastructure on both sides of the path, as this area is part of the 5 Torri ski resort. After completing the steepest section, follow the markings and look out for a path that branches off to the left. The trail then becomes rocky, requiring caution due to loose rocks and stones. Before long, you reach the Averau. A signpost indicates the path to the Averau hut, which is accessible from the south side of the summit via a progressively narrower trail. The final ascent now awaits: a narrow path leads us up to the Nuvolau. The hut is now in sight, and we have reached our destination. Built in 1883, the Nuvolau hut is the oldest still-operating refuge in the Dolomites. From an altitude of 2,575 meters, the breathtaking view offers a panorama of the heart of the Ampezzo Dolomites. For the return route, we head back to the Averau hut, then bear right towards the 5 Torri, one of the most famous landmarks in the Dolomites. Shortly before reaching the Scoiattoli hut, we bear left onto the “Sentiero delle Trincee” but stay on the right-hand path, which leads us back to the Col Gallina car park.
Starting point: Falzarego Pass, Col Gallina (52 km from the hotel)
To the route
