Nuvolau

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.5 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
720 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.8
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panoramic views of the Nuvolau hike in Dolomites, Italy

A hike around the Nuvolau peak gives you views of some of the most beautiful mountains and rock formations in the world. This walk shows off some of the best views in the dolomites, and a stay at Rifugio Nuvolau is a wonderful experience.

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Route Description for Nuvolau

The trail starts behind the Passo Falzarego restaurant. Take the path following the indications to Rifugio Averau. The hike starts with a light ascentbut soon it’ll become steeper and steeper.

Behind you, the skyline is dominated by Le Tofane massif, and in particular La Tofana di Rozeswhich is the southern-most mountain in the group.

Keep walking on the rocky, steep path until you come to a crossroad with two different signs: one will indicate for Averau hut, the other one for Croda Negra.  Take the Averau Hut path.

Following the path for Averauyou will walk just underneath the Averau mountain. A small path will climb up and up. The view from there will astonish youTo the south is Mount Civetta.  Gazing west, you'll see the Marmolada.

In a short amount of time you’ll reach the Rifugio Averau.  From here you can rest for a while and drink something in the hut.  From there you’ll continue your hike up to the top of Nuvolauat 2,575 m abover sea level.

The signs are good along the barren, ascending ground. You’ll eventually reach Rifugio Nuvolau.  It will take you no longer than twenty minutes from the Averau hut.  The Nuvolau is one of the most renowed peaks in the Dolomites. It has amazing views. You might be able to see the Cinque Torri from here.

Take a break here and enjoy the views. Then take the path back to Rifugio Averau and go right, proceeding to the Rifugio Scoiattoli. Follow the path until you arrive at a fork near the Scoiattoli hutThen, take the broad path that goes down into the forest.

The path descends steeply, leading you to the Bain de Dones Cable Car. After you get there, there is a path on your left which will lead to Passo Falzarego. Take the path and follow it through the forest.

After a long, but serene walk, you will begin to hear cars from the highway. Soon, you will be back in Passo Falzarego.

Insider Hints for Nuvolau

  • If you are planning to stay in a hut make your reservation well in advance. They get busy in summer.
  • We like to do this hike paired with a trip up to Rifugio Lagazuoi for some strudel!

Getting to the Nuvolau Trailhead

From Cortina take the SS48 south towards Passo Falzarego. Park at the restaurant.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May to September

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    Yes, in the huts

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Nuvolau Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Nuvolau Reviews

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