Day 6 on Alta Via 1: Rifugio Attilio Tissi to Rifugio Bruto Carestiato – Key Highlights
Day 6 on the Alta Via 1 was one of the most challenging sections for me. The trail was exposed for most of the day, with little shade and limited opportunities to refill water. The ascent was steady, with a fair amount of scrambling around recent rock slides. While the ridgeline views were absolutely spectacular, the day felt long and grueling—especially with the heat of one of Italy’s hottest Junes in years.
Trail Highlights
The ridgeline views on this stretch were absolutely fantastic—on a clear day, you can see the distant mountains in all their glory. Along the way, I passed several herds of cows and goats, which added a fun and lively touch to the hike. Since this day is a long, gradual ascent, getting an early start makes a big difference.
Trail Traffic
This section was much quieter, with the only hikers I came across being those who had also stayed at Rifugio Tissi or Rifugio Mario Vazzoler. Beyond that, people were pretty spread out depending on their pace for the day.
Rifugio Information
🏔️ Rifugio Mario Vazzoler – A beautiful location tucked in between the mountains, I only stopped for chocolate and water
🏔️ Rifugio Bruto Carestiato – Loved this spot! They have a great bar and outdoor dining area, the shower system wasn’t great but the atmosphere makes up for it.
Trail Tips
✅ Load up on water at your first Rifugio as water springs are limited
✅ This section had a lot of recent rock slides so be mindful and try and have a hiking buddy with you for some of the more dangerous sections
Favorite Views
Final Thoughts
Day 6 on the Alta Via 1 is a true test of endurance, combining long, exposed ascents with occasional scrambling around recent rock slides. The ridgeline views and encounters with alpine wildlife make the effort worthwhile, but careful planning is essential—especially when it comes to water and pacing yourself. With an early start, plenty of hydration, and a mindful approach to tricky sections, this challenging day becomes an unforgettable part of the Dolomites experience.
A special thanks to The Hiking Club for partnering with me on this trek—highly recommend their services if you’re planning your own Alta Via 1 adventure!
Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!
