Nuvolau
- Physical DifficultyThis 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.
- Technical DifficultyThis 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.

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 ascent, but soon it’ll become steeper and steeper.
Behind you, the skyline is dominated by Le Tofane massif, and in particular La Tofana di Rozes, which 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 Averau, you will walk just underneath the Averau mountain. A small path will climb up and up. The view from there will astonish you. To 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 Nuvolau, at 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 hut. Then, 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
Nuvolau Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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