Where to Stay Before & After the Alta Via 1: A Solo Hiker’s Guide to the Dolomites (2026 Edition)
Before you start stressing about rifugio bookings on the Alta Via 1, make sure you’ve locked in something just as important: where you’ll stay before you begin the Alta Via 1 and after you finish the Alta Via 1. Most hikers overlook this, but the right base can completely change how smooth your first day feels—and how rested you are when you come off the trail.
After hiking sections of both the Alta Via 1 and 2 solo, I’ve learned which towns make the AV1 easier, and which ones add extra buses, backtracking, or stress you don’t need. In this guide, you’ll find the places I personally stayed in and recommend in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Dobbiaco, Lago di Braies, Belluno, and Agordo. They’re safe, well-located, and reliable—some budget-friendly, some a little more comfortable, all solid choices.
Let’s get your bases sorted quickly and clearly, with pros, cons, transit details, and booking tips, so you can start your AV1 feeling calm, prepared, and ready to go.
This Post Pairs Well With:
- A First Timers Guide to the Dolomites: How To Plan An Epic Trip
- What to Expect at Mountain Huts in the Dolomites
- How To Make A Reservation at a Hut in the Dolomites
- Lago Di Sorapis Hiking Guide: Passo Tre Croci to Sorapis
- The Ultimate Alta Via 1 & 2 Packing List for Solo Female Hikers
- Where to Stay in the Dolomites: Hotels I Loved as a Solo Traveler
- DOLOMITES HIKING POSTS
Alta Via 1: Quick Guide (Where to Stay Before & After Your Trek)
Best Bases Before the Trek
• Cortina d’Ampezzo – Most amenities, great restaurants, stylish stays, further from trailhead
• Dobbiaco (Toblach) – Closest transit access to Lago di Braies, budget-friendly, reliable
• Lago di Braies – Stay directly at the trailhead, extremely limited availability
Best Bases After the Trek
• Belluno :Closest city to the finish; easiest onward travel by bus + train
Fast Logistics Notes
• Start Point: Lago di Braies
• Finish Point: La Pissa → bus to Belluno
• Best for Solo Hikers: Dobbiaco (before) + Belluno (after)
• Peak Season Booking Window: January–April for July–September hikes
Top Tip: Booking your pre- and post-hike stays early can save you hours of bus transfers and logistical headaches on Day 1 and Day 8.
How this Post Works
This guide is here to take the guesswork out of choosing where to stay before and after the Alta Via 1. I’ve included my own trusted picks, along with hotels that other hikers consistently rave about. Some are budget-friendly, some are a little more comfortable, but all of them are solid options I’d recommend without hesitation. After answering the same accommodation questions in my inbox again and again, I finally put everything in one place—so you can plan faster, book with confidence, and start your trek feeling prepared instead of overwhelmed.
If you absolutely hate reading and just want to start searching, this map below will help you narrow things down. However, I highly advise you to research and read.
Best Places to Stay for the Alta Via 1 (Quick-Glance Guide)
| Base | Why Stay Here | Top Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Cortina d’Ampezzo | Comfort, food, and ease of access to the bus stop. Personal Pick. Have Stayed Here | Nord Hotel— Check Availability |
| Dobbiaco (Toblach) | Best transport access + early starts | B&B Hotel Heidi — Book Here |
| Lago di Braies | Closest start possible (0 km). Personal Pick. Have Stayed Here | Hotel Trenker — See Rooms |
| Belluno | Most convenient post-trek base | Suites Hotel Astor — View Rates |
Where the Alta Via 1 Starts (and What You’re Actually Hiking)
The Alta Via 1—often called the classic hut-to-hut trek of the Dolomites—officially starts at Lago di Braies, the impossibly blue alpine lake tucked in the Braies Valley of South Tyrol. From here, the trail travels south for roughly 120 kilometers, weaving through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Italian Dolomites: Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, the Ampezzo Dolomites, the Cinque Torri area, and the rugged Belluno Dolomites near the end.
The route finishes at La Pissa, a small trailhead near Belluno, where hikers hop a bus into the city for their final overnight or onward travel.
If you’re brand new to the AV1:
It’s not a technical mountaineering route—it’s a well-marked long-distance hiking trail designed around rifugios, the mountain huts where trekkers eat, sleep, and recover each night. Expect anywhere from 6–11 days of hiking, depending on your pace and whether you take alternative routes or add side trips.
This is why your pre- and post-hike accommodations matter so much. The Alta Via 1 doesn’t start in a town, and it doesn’t end in one either. Planning where you stay the night before starting at Lago di Braies and where you land after finishing in Belluno can make the difference between a smooth, empowering trek and a stressful one. and choose stays that support—not complicate—your AV1 adventure.
Before You Book: A Smarter Way to Plan Your Alta Via 1 Logistics
If you’d prefer not to coordinate rifugios, buses, hotels, and transport yourself, companies like the Dolomist and Bookatrekking offer self-guided Alta Via 1 and other Dolomite hiking packages that arrange everything, hut stays, meals, and your before-and-after hotels.
So essentially, you can click a button, book it, and they coordinate everything for you, and you don’t even need to read this.
However, I am aware that you can simply plan it yourself, and if that’s you — WAHOO!
I’ve used both companies on several hut-to-hut routes and found their organization and communication excellent. I do, however, feel that the Dolomist mission is more in line with my beliefs. You can read all about how I went on a culturally immersive hike with them in the Friulian Dolomites this past August here
I make zero money off of you clicking any of these links, I am not an affiliate with either company.
→ View the Latest Alta Via 1 Itineraries for Bookatrekking 2026
Where to Stay Before Starting the Alta Via 1
Cortina d’Ampezzo: Comfort, Elegance & a Soft Landing in the Mountains
Cortina is the Dolomites’ cosmopolitan heart—stylish restaurants, chic wine bars, wonderful bakeries, and mountain views that seem painted onto the sky. If you want a final evening of comfort before stepping onto the trail, this is where to find it.
Even though Cortina is farther from the trailhead, many hikers choose it because the quality of hotels is excellent and the town is a pleasant place to gather supplies, enjoy an aperitivo, and ease into the trekking mindset.
| Cortina at a Glance | Details |
| Distance to Trailhead | ~50 km / 53 minutes (bus via Dobbiaco) |
| Why Stay Here | A mix of alpine charm and modern comfort. Ideal for a relaxing, indulgent start. |
| Pros | Vibrant dining scene; boutique shopping; wide range of accommodations |
| Cons | Higher prices; longer transfer to Lago di Braies |
Trusted Stays in Cortina
I have a whole list of trusted hotels in the Dolomites, which I update quite frequently, and you can read about my favorite stays here
Nord Hotel – I recently stayed here for three days for some fall hiking, and I loved it. It was close to a bus stop (just across the street) easy walk into tow,n as there is a circuit you can do. I had a single bed on the top floor and the amenities were modern and comfortable. Mid-range, calm, and scenic. Spacious rooms with balcony views.
→ Check availability
Grand Hotel Savoia – The most elegant pre-trek option in the Dolomites. Ideal if you want a touch of luxury before the hike.
→ View rooms and rates
Meublé Villa Neve – Affordable, central, and reliable. Excellent for solo travelers.
→ Compare prices
Dobbiaco (Toblach): Quiet, Efficient, and Exceptionally Well Connected
Dobbiaco is the strategic choice for Alta Via 1 hikers who want transit convenience, early morning departures, and quieter evenings. It’s closer to the trailhead and significantly easier to navigate than Cortina. Trains and buses connect seamlessly, making it ideal for anyone relying on public transport.
| Dobbiaco at a Glance | Details |
| Distance to Trailhead | ~7 km |
| Why Stay Here | The best blend of affordability, calm, and transport access. |
| Pros | Reliable buses; direct train station; great for early starts |
| Cons | Limited nightlife; fewer restaurants |
Where to Stay in Dobbiaco
B&B Hotel Heidi – Modern, immaculate, and steps from the train station.
→ Reserve a room
Loft Panorama – Budget-friendly with mountain views and a warm, personal feel.
→ View availability
Lago di Braies: The Closest Start Possible
For a truly effortless start to your Alta Via 1, nothing beats waking up beside Lago di Braies. It’s serene, quiet, and just minutes from the official trailhead.
I stayed at Hotel Trenker and loved the peaceful atmosphere, hearty breakfast, and easy access to the bus stop. There is a bus stop right outside Hotel Trenker, making it incredibly easy to get to the starting point. Lago Di Braies was 2 minutes away. SCORE!
I know not many people can luck out with reservations there, and this is why I say to you BOOK EARLY!
| Lago di Braies at a Glance | Details |
| Distance to Trailhead | 0 km |
| Why Stay Here | Immediate trail access and unmatched scenery. |
| Pros | Steps from AV1 start; pristine landscapes; quiet nights |
| Cons | Limited rooms; parking restrictions mid-summer; higher rates |
Where to Stay at Lago di Braies
Hotel Trenker – My personal recommendation: tranquil, well-run, and close to everything.
→ Check availability
Hotel Lago di Braies – The iconic lakeside stay. If you want a memorable place to begin your journey, this is it.
→ View rooms
Alpin Natur Hotel Brückele – Affordable and still close to the trailhead.
→ Compare prices
Where to Stay After Finishing the Alta Via 1
Belluno: The Most Convenient Post-Trek Base
Belluno is the town most hikers gravitate toward after finishing the Alta Via 1. It’s close to the final bus stop at La Pissa and offers direct trains to Venice, Verona, and Bologna.
This is where you rest, clean up, enjoy a good meal, and reconnect with the comfort of town life.
| Belluno at a Glance | Details |
| Access From Trail | 20 minutes by bus |
| Why Stay Here | Best transport links; ideal for onward travel |
| Pros | Reliable buses; train connections; walkable historic center |
| Cons | Limited Sunday bus service |
Where to Stay in Belluno
Hotel Astor Belluno – Modern, central, and perfect for a quick stopover.
→ Compare prices
Park Hotel Villa Carpenada – A refined villa with garden views and quiet rooms.
→ View availability
Transportation Logistics for the Alta Via 1
Another aspect you need to plan is logistics for getting to the Alta Via 1 starting points
Getting to the Trailhead
I have a wonderful guide on how to get from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Cortina here
Once you reach Cortina d’Ampezzo, the local bus network is reliable and easy to use, but you’ll want to double-check routes before you go. Always confirm stops, schedules, and seasonal changes on the official Südtirol Mobil site—timetables in this region shift often and not always with much notice. Staying updated will save you stress and keep your AV1 plans running smoothly.
By Bus
Cortina → Dobbiaco (Bus 445)
Dobbiaco → Lago di Braies (Bus 442)
(Reserve July–September via Südtirol Mobil.)
To reach Lago di Braies in summer, you’ll need to reserve a bus ticket from Dobbiaco in advance. Even on the very last day of the season, they still required reservations—I learned this firsthand when I had to buy a last-minute ticket at the stop. Don’t assume you can just show up; book ahead so you’re not scrambling at the trailhead.
Book Your Lago di Braies Bus Ticket/Parking Reservations
By Car
Parking requires reservations from June–September (especially between 9:30–16:00), but I don’t recommend parking at Lago di Braies for the Alta Via 1. It’s far easier to park near the finish line and use buses to reach the start.
Private Transfer Option
Most companies that offer self guided hikes, with hotels on the front and back give you the option of a private transfer the morning of your trailhead departure. Again this the wonderful reason why booking with either Bookatrekking or The Dolomist is wise.
Leaving the Trail: From La Pissa to Belluno
- Hourly bus to Belluno
- Purchase ticket onboard (bring small bills)
- From Belluno, trains run to Venice, Verona, and Bologna with minimal transfers
Guided & Self-Guided Alta Via 1 Options
If hut reservations and logistics feel daunting, consider a self-guided AV1 or other trekking package from:
- Bookatrekking (my top recommendation)
- The Dolomist (local, sustainable, great bespoke itineraries)
Both handle your rifugios, meals, and hotels before and after the trek. I honestly feel like you can get wonderful views and the same experience on many different treks in the Dolomites.
FAQs: Alta Via 1 Accommodation
No! Cortina is fine too! But it does make your life a whole lot easier. Waking up at the trailhead means no early buses, no rushing, and no stress. If rooms are booked or pricey, Dobbiaco is your next best option and still incredibly convenient.
Yes—Cortina is ideal if you want comfort, amenities, and dining options before hiking. It requires a longer bus transfer but offers the best range of hotels.
The most popular bases are Dobbiaco and Lago di Braies, thanks to easy transport and quick trail access.
Hotel Trenker and Hotel Lago di Braies are the closest options—within minutes of the starting point.
Belluno is the most convenient and has the best onward travel options.
If you care about easy transport and a calm night before hiking, yes. Dobbiaco connects directly to the bus for Lago di Braies and has a train station right there. Cortina is wonderful, but it takes more time to reach the trailhead.
No—wild camping isn’t allowed around Lago di Braies, and they’re strict about enforcing it. Stick to a hotel near the lake or stay in Dobbiaco and bus in the next morning. WILD CAMPING IS NOT ALLOWED IN ANY NATURE PARK IN THE DOLOMITES.
Earlier than you think. June through September fills up fast. I’d lock in your pre- and post-trek hotels at least 3–6 months ahead, especially if you want to stay right at Lago di Braies.
Yes. It’s one of the best decisions you can make. Parking at Lago di Braies requires reservations and isn’t convenient for hikers. Park near Belluno or Agordo and take the bus to the trailhead—you’ll thank yourself on the way out.
In summer, absolutely. From June–September, you need a reservation for the Dobbiaco → Lago di Braies bus. Even on the last day of the season, they still checked. Book ahead so you’re not scrambling at the stop.
Yes. Cortina, Dobbiaco, Braies, Belluno, and Agordo are all easy, solo-friendly bases. Walkable, quiet, and reliable—they’re great for easing into (or recovering from) a multi-day hike.
Dobbiaco or Lago di Braies. Both offer straightforward public transport, zero hassle, and quick access to the trailhead.
Usually, yes. Many hotels in Cortina and Dobbiaco will hold your luggage if you’re a guest. Belluno hotels often do the same when you finish the hike.
Final Thoughts
Where you stay before and after the Alta Via 1 sets the tone for your entire journey. The right hotel can calm nerves, simplify logistics, and give you a well-deserved moment of luxury once your trek is complete.
Every hotel in this guide is a place I trust and would return to. Book early, choose confidently, and give yourself a beginning and ending worthy of the trail in between.
