Best of Dolomites

The trek begins in the peaceful alpine meadows just outside San Candido. If you spent the night in a nearby town, you can check bus schedules to get to the starting point here. From San Candido, you will enjoy a gentle, gradual ascent through the green pastures of the valley. During the first half of the hike, the elevation gain is gradual, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of the Alta Via 4 trail. The trail then leads you into the protected area of the Tre Cime Nature Park, which is teeming with biodiversity.

Around halfway through the hike, the terrain becomes steeper and more rugged as you begin the real ascent. At around 10.5 km, you will be rewarded with incredible views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. This tranquil spot is ideal for a rest and to take photos, away from the crowds. From here, you can enjoy stunning vistas of the peaks as you approach Rifugio Antonio Locatelli — the perfect place to pause and take in your surroundings. The iconic Tre Cime will accompany you for the rest of the hike, looming large on the horizon.

When you are about 1.5 km from Rifugio Auronzo, where you will be staying tonight, take trail number 9 to the right and you will soon reach the small Maria Ausiliatrice chapel. Follow the signs to the hut, which is located in one of the most famous spots in the Dolomites.

From Rifugio Auronzo, the trail starts with a stunning stretch along the southern flank of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Within the first kilometer, you’ll pass the Cappella degli Alpini and the Paul Grohmann Monument, both tucked beneath the towering peaks. With the Drei Zinnen constantly in view, it’s an iconic start that sets the tone for the day.

The path climbs steadily toward Büllelejoch Hut, passing crystal-clear alpine lakes like Lake of Lavaredo and Lago di Cengia. After a short break at the hut, the descent begins, offering views of a serene mountain lake and the dramatic Schusterplatte, before arriving at Rifugio Antonio Locatelli, perfectly perched above the Lakes of the Plains.

Today’s stage is relatively short, giving you time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. You can take it easy at the hut, wander around the nearby lakes, or explore one of the exciting routes in the area. To the south, you’ll find a trail with fantastic views of the Tre Cime and the challenging Paternkofel Via Ferrata. To the north, the Toblinger Knoten Via Ferrata offers another great adventure. Both routes feature historic war tunnels that add a unique touch to the experience. Before setting off, check with the hut owner for advice on route difficulty and conditions. If you plan to do a via ferrata, make sure you have the proper equipment.