Tour of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo
The route around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Dolomites, a must-see destination for mountain lovers. The route is considered suitable for those with some experience of high-altitude hiking, with a total elevation gain of around 250 metres, taking 3–4 hours to complete. This broad estimate takes into account the fact that the route is very popular with hikers of varying abilities, each at their own pace.
HOW TO REACH THE STARTING POINT
The walk starts from the car park next to the Auronzo mountain hut, which can be reached via the Strada Panoramica delle Tre Cime, starting from Lake Misurina. Please note that there is a charge for using this road: the toll is €40 per car and requires advance booking by credit card.
DEPARTURE FROM THE AURONZO MOUNTAIN HUT
From the Auronzo mountain hut, follow trail number 101, which winds through an enchanting landscape, passing by the little church of Madonna della Croda. The church is dedicated to those who have lost their lives in the mountains and offers spectacular views of the Cadini di Misurina, the Sorapis massif and the peaks of Cadore and Forni di Sopra in Carnia (Friuli Venezia Giulia).
STOP AT THE LAVAREDO REFUGE
Continuing along trail 101, you reach the Lavaredo refuge and then the picturesque Forcella Lavaredo, situated at an altitude of around 2,454 metres on the border with South Tyrol. From here, the Three Peaks (Piccola, Grande and Occidentale) appear to overlap in the distance, offering a unique spectacle not found elsewhere along the circuit. These imposing walls have been the scene of legendary mountaineering feats, featuring figures such as Paul Grohmann and Emilio Comici.
TOWARDS THE LOCATELLI REFUGE
Continuing on, the path leads across the spectacular Monte Paterno towards the Locatelli mountain hut (2,405 m). As this is one of the busiest huts in the Dolomites, it is important to plan your arrival time carefully to avoid the crowds. Many people, including visitors from Venice on organised trips, choose this stop for the panoramic views it offers.
The Locatelli/Innerkofler refuge is named after its historic manager, Sepp Innerkofler, whose turbulent story I explored in another article on my blog. After a lunch break (it is often advisable to bring a packed lunch), it is well worth taking time to take photographs: the view of the Sesto Dolomites and the Three Peaks from this vantage point is, in fact, one of the most iconic.
TRAIL 105
We set off again along Trail 105, first tackling a fairly steep descent characterised by numerous hairpin bends. This is followed by a moderate climb across the green plateau of Grava Longa, a landscape adorned with open meadows and mountain huts, with the imposing peaks always in the background.
REACHING THE COL DI MEZZO PASS
As you approach the end of the circuit, you climb up the side of the Sasso di Landro to reach the Col di Mezzo pass at 2,315 metres. This spot offers the perfect opportunity for a short break: as well as regaining your energy, you can admire one of the most striking views of the Dolomites.
FINAL STRETCH AND RETURN
The final part of the walk requires caution, particularly on the exposed sections. Once past this stretch, the route quickly leads back to the car park at the Auronzo refuge, thus completing the loop.
