Short Alta Via 2 – Alternative Route with Hotel Before and After
Duration: 5 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km / 6 - 9 mi per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m / 1640 - 3281 ft ascent per day
> Experience the thrill of Alta Via 2 – even when the classic huts are sold out
> Follow a scenic 3-day alternative route through the Italian Dolomites
> Enjoy included accommodation before and after the trek in Lajen or Brixen
The Alta Via 2 is one of the legendary high routes in the Italian Dolomites – a demanding trail full of adventure, dramatic ridgelines, and steep slopes. But what if the most popular huts, like Rifugio Genova, are already fully booked?
No worries – we’ve designed an alternative 3-day version that still gives you the excitement of the Alta Via 2, without the stress of finding available huts. This route starts at Rifugio Resciesa, a scenic and peaceful spot above Lajen, and continues along a beautiful stretch of the Dolomites, finishing at Passo Gardena.
Your accommodation in Lajen (or Brixen) the night before and after the trek is included, giving you time to settle in, explore the area, and recover post-hike. It’s the perfect option for experienced hikers who want a taste of the Alta Via 2 – even when the usual route is at full capacity.
You’ll still get everything you’d expect: incredible views, challenging trails, and cozy Italian rifugios to rest your legs each night. And as always, we take care of all the accommodation bookings for you – before, during, and after the trek.
Itinerary
Day
1
Arrival in Lajen
Today, make your way to Lajen, or Laion in Italian. Take the time to settle in, explore the peaceful surroundings, and relax — tomorrow, your trek begins.
If the accommodation options in Lajen are full, we will arrange your stay in Brixen (Bressanone), only a 30-minute bus ride away.
Gasthof Zur Sonne (Lajen)
Day
2
Lajen - Rifugio Resciesa
Duration: 04:45 h
Distance: 9.92 km / 6.2 mi
Ascent: 1090 m / 3576 ft
Descent: 20 m / 66 ft
p>Your trek kicks off with a mostly uphill stage, easing you into the rhythm of the mountains. Leaving Lajen behind, the trail leads you steadily upward, passing the charming Church of St. Jacob and Valentin. Not far along, you'll reach the Unterpulghütte hut – a perfect spot to take a break and recharge with a drink or snack.
As you continue climbing, keep an eye out for the unique sculptures carved into the forest trees – a creative touch that adds a bit of magic to the trail. A little further on, just before reaching today’s final destination, you'll arrive at a panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping views over the valley around Lajen. After one last stretch, you’ll arrive at Rifugio Resciesa – your home for the night.
Resciesa hut (Raschötz Hütte)
Day
3
Resciesa hut (Raschötz Hütte) - Rifugio Firenze
Duration: 03:55 h
Distance: 9.79 km / 6.1 mi
Ascent: 480 m / 1575 ft
Descent: 610 m / 2001 ft
From Resciesa Hut, head towards Seceda, following a scenic path through alpine meadows with stunning views of the Odle Group. The route gradually ascends before reaching Fermeda Hut, a great spot for a break. From here, continue past the Seceda chairlift station, where you’ll get one of the most iconic panoramas in the Dolomites.
The trail then descends through rolling pastures before entering forested terrain. The final stretch is steeper as you make your way down to Rifugio Firenze, nestled in the heart of the Puez-Odle Nature Park.
Rifugio Firenze
Day
4
Rifugio Firenze - Passo Gardena
Duration: 05:10 h
Distance: 11.9 km / 7.4 mi
Ascent: 840 m / 2756 ft
Descent: 740 m / 2428 ft
From Rifugio Firenze (Regensburgerhütte), hike toward the town of Selva Gardena. When you reach Daunëi, stay on path 3, hiking through Val de Chedul. From here there is a succession of slight ascents and descents, splits, boulders, small towers and meadows until you reach the wide Dolomite saddle of Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch, 2,121 m). Your trek ends at Passo Gardena. From here you can take a bus back to Lajen or Bressanone, depending on your itinerary.
Gasthof Zur Sonne (Lajen)
Day
5
Departure day
The last day has arrived. After a nice breakfast, check out of the hotel and continue the rest of your trip.
Included
Excluded
FAQ
Where Does the Alta Via 2 Start and How Do I Get There?
Difficulty of the Alta Via 2: Is This Trek Right for Me?
When Is the Best Season to Hike the Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites?
How to Book
Booking
Availability
Cancellation policy
Reviews
Book Now
Contact our Trekking Expert
Charisa Kailey-Lê
Reviews
Just for You
