Alta Via del Granito - Medium

Duration: 4 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 0 - 10 km per day
Ascent per day: 250 - 500 m ascent per day

> Overnight stays in cozy Italian Rifugios
> Hike the 4-day version of the Alta Via del Granito in the Italian Dolomites
> Don’t worry about arranging your accommodation, we’ve got it covered!

The Alta Via del Granito is not just another Alta Via. “Alta Via” literally means “high route”, and there are many of them in the Dolomites. You may already know the classics Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2, but this trail takes you somewhere different: the rugged granite landscapes of the quiet Lagorai mountain range. You will hike a circular route through the Cima d’Asta – Cime di Rava massif, along old military paths and World War I routes. This hidden gem is especially popular among Italian hikers and connects the only two mountain huts in the area: Rifugio Conseria and Rifugio Caldenave. We have designed a moderate 4-day hut-to-hut Dolomites trek, ideal for those who prefer to take it a bit easier.

Although the route is classified as T2, it should not be underestimated. The trails are generally well-marked, but they do require solid fitness. Along the way, you will encounter exposed sections, loose stones, rough terrain, and large granite boulders right on the path. This is true mountain hiking and therefore good preparation and surefootedness are essential here.

Itinerary

Day
1

Malga Sorgazza - Rifugio Caldenave

Duration: 07:15 h
Distance: 11.4 km
Ascent: 1080 m
Descent: 730 m

The route runs between Malga Sorgazza and Rifugio Caldenave on marked mountain paths. It climbs from forested slopes to open, rocky ground beneath Cima Segura 2269 m and Cima Costa Brunella 2253 m, then crosses a high pass before descending to pastures. Expect sustained ascents and descents on uneven terrain, including short, slightly exposed traverses and sections on stones and boulders. It is appropriate for hikers accustomed to alpine paths and stable footing on rocky ground.

The outing begins on a vehicle track that narrows into a stony trail, rising through roots, natural rock steps and short eroded gullies. Higher up, the forest opens and the path crosses granite slabs and scattered boulders above a small mountain lake. Some traverses are slightly airy but remain on a clear path. The climb continues in zigzags on firm yet irregular ground toward Quarazza Pass and Forcella Tombolin 2340 m, where the landscape becomes more open and rugged.

From the crest the path descends over rocky steps and grassy sections, occasionally weaving through blocks of stone and small patches of loose scree that demand attention but no special equipment. As the gradient decreases, the trail becomes more regular, crossing streams on bridges and entering wider pastures. The final section follows clear paths across the Caldenave basin, leading directly to the buildings of Rifugio Caldenave on a gentle grassy terrace.

Rifugio Caldenave

Info
Rifugio Caldenave
Rifugio Caldenave
Day
2

Rifugio Caldenave - Rifugio Consèria

Duration: 03:45 h
Distance: 7.3 km
Ascent: 440 m
Descent: 410 m
Descend from Rifugio Caldenave to the plateau, cross the stream and take path 360, which, along the lakes of Val dell'Inferno, climbs to Forcella delle Buse Todesche. From this point continue north on path 373, along the eastern flank of the Cengello and the Cima Lasteati. Your destination for the night is Rifugio Consèria. If, upon arrival, you still have some energy and feel like exploring, you can take a short but beautiful circular hike in the surrounding area, where you’ll find trenches and other signs of World War I.

Rifugio Consèria

Info
Rifugio Consèria
Rifugio Consèria
Day
3

Rifugio Consèria - Rifugio Cima d'Asta - O. Brentari

Duration: 04:50 h
Distance: 8.1 km
Ascent: 840 m
Descent: 190 m
This stage leads you to Forcella Magna, an important pass connecting Val Sorgazza to Alta Val Cia. During World War I, this pass was served by a cart road that allowed the Italians to place large artillery emplacements there, and the ruins are still visible today. From Forcella Magna, the trail climbs steeply through rugged granite terrain toward Passo Socede — a demanding ascent that requires physical effort and sure-footedness. After reaching the fork on the right just before the pass, continue along path No. 380, where you’ll encounter more World War I remains in the form of old trench systems. From this point, it takes about 15 minutes to reach Rifugio Cima d'Asta, also known as Ottone Brentari, traversing granite slabs and rocky ground.

Rifugio Cima d'Asta - O. Brentari

Info
Rifugio Cima d'Asta - O. Brentari
Rifugio Cima d'Asta - O. Brentari
Day
4

Rifugio Cima d'Asta - Malga Sorgazza

Duration: 04:15 h
Distance: 8.8 km
Ascent: 40 m
Descent: 1080 m

This stage runs entirely downhill and links the high mountain hut of Rifugio Cima d’Asta with the alpine pasture of Malga Sorgazza. From the rocky basin around the lake below Cima d’Asta 2847 m you descend gradually toward forest and meadows. The focus is on a long descent along mostly well-marked mountain paths, with stretches on stone and rock. The route mainly requires secure footing and strong knees, but remains technically straightforward for hikers who are used to alpine terrain.

From the hut you follow the path along the lake and make a short climb to Pasetto Pass near Sasso Largo 2551 m. The main descent then begins on a clear, sometimes steep zigzag path over rocky ground with loose stones. Some sections cross smooth slabs or weave between blocks, where careful foot placement is needed. Lower down the terrain gradually softens and the path traverses the slopes of Monte Coston, passing scattered alpine pastures and shepherds’ buildings.

Further on, the path turns into a wider track that descends by forest edges and grass fields toward the valley. After a final series of bends you reach the bridge over the Grigno and follow a comfortable road between meadows. This leads without difficulties to the buildings of Malga Sorgazza, where the route ends at the pasture and the access road in the valley.

Included

  • Full travel guide

    You’ll receive access to our trekking app, which serves as your complete digital travel guide for the Alta Via del Granito. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for your trek: route descriptions, hiking maps, navigation support, payment information, and all the key details specific to your journey.

  • Accommodation

    During your Alta Via del Granito, you will spend your nights in mountain huts. In the mountain huts we normally only book dormitories, but we can look into private rooms on request. If the private rooms are fully booked or not available in the hut, we automatically book a bed in dormitories for you. Please note that private rooms are more expensive and there will be an additional charge for this.

  • Half-board in Huts

    Accommodation at the huts includes dinner and breakfast. We will arrange this for you as well. This allows you to travel lighter and have one less thing to worry about. Bear in mind that lunch is not included, but it can be purchased at the huts. Here you can also buy an array of snacks and bottled water.

  • Navigation support

    Our trekking app also includes built-in navigation support. With GPS-based maps and offline access, you can follow the trail confidently and stay on route even without mobile signal.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport.

  • Transfers

    Should you need any form of (public) transport on location, this is not part of the trekking package. This includes the use of taxi, bus, cable cars, gondolas, ferries, etc.

  • Lunch

    Half-board is included in the price of this trek. Lunch, however, is not. You can get something to eat at the mountain huts along the way.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses on such as souvenirs, drinks, and other similar expenses are for your own account.

FAQ

  • Is the Alta via Del Granito for Me?

  • What Is the Best Season for the Alta via Del Granito?

  • To the starting point: Malga Sorgazza

  • What if the dates I want are not available?

  • If I book now, can I immediately arrange the rest of my trip?

  • How do I know if this trek is right for me?

How to Book

  • Booking

  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy

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