
Rifugio Biella (Seekofelhütte)
A cozy, traditional mountain hut in the Dolomites, perfect for hikers on the Alta Via 1, offering stunning views and hearty meals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Rifugio Biella (Seekofelhütte)
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, traditional mountain hut in the Dolomites, perfect for hikers on the Alta Via 1, offering stunning views and hearty meals.
"If you are adventurous and want to relax in a nice and friendly atmosphere of a traditional mountain hut, Rifugio Biella is the place for you."

Bring Cash! 💰
Card payments can be unreliable; always have cash on hand for your stay.
Pack Warm Layers 🧥
Nights can be freezing, even in summer. Bring plenty of warm clothing for sleeping.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alta Via 1 Stopover
Dolomites
A quintessential stop on the famous Alta Via 1, offering stunning mountain vistas and a true alpine experience.
Croda del Becco Views
Near Seekofel
Hike towards Croda del Becco (Seekofel) for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites.
Lake Braies Proximity
Near Lago di Braies
Conveniently located for hikes to and from the iconic Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee).

Al Munt de Sennes Trail
Al Munt de Sennes
Explore the scenic trails around Al Munt de Sennes, offering beautiful alpine landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Trailhead to Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
Card payments can be unreliable; always have cash on hand for your stay.
Pack Warm Layers 🧥
Nights can be freezing, even in summer. Bring plenty of warm clothing for sleeping.
Basic Amenities Ahead 🚿
Expect Turkish toilets and potentially no working showers. Freshen up at the sink.
Book in Advance 📅
Especially during peak season, securing a bed in advance is highly recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
Card payments can be unreliable; always have cash on hand for your stay.
Pack Warm Layers 🧥
Nights can be freezing, even in summer. Bring plenty of warm clothing for sleeping.
Basic Amenities Ahead 🚿
Expect Turkish toilets and potentially no working showers. Freshen up at the sink.
Book in Advance 📅
Especially during peak season, securing a bed in advance is highly recommended.
Good Food, Rustic Vibe 🍝
Enjoy hearty meals like pasta bolognese in a cozy, traditional mountain hut atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rifugio Biella is lauded for its cozy, traditional atmosphere and delicious, hearty meals, making it a beloved stop on the Alta Via 1. While the rustic amenities like Turkish toilets and limited showers are noted, most guests find the charm and welcoming staff outweigh these basic comforts. It's a perfect spot for adventurous hikers seeking an authentic mountain experience.
"We were so happy to enter the warm and cosy communal area after a cold day’s hiking. The dinner was huge and delicious, service was average, nothing special. The bedrooms are FREEZING - be sure to bring layers (we went in September). The bathrooms are very basic, so be prepared! Turkish toilet and ice cold taps, I didn’t use the shower as couldn’t bear the thought of taking any layers off! Great location though, out in the mountains! Little to no access to plug sockets."
Danielle L
"This hut is older and rustic but I found it very cozy and charming and an excellent introduction to the AV1. It was a welcome sight on a cold rainy day, and the staff were very kind. The dorm rooms aren't very private from the others, so its not a very quiet night, and the bathrooms are a bit lacking."
Taylor Barron
"Nice mountain hut. The staff was friendly, the hut has its own unique atmosphere. The food was good, pasta bolognese was the best! The only minus was maybe the Turkish toilets, however, the toilets were clean."
Marie Bolková
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can hike to Rifugio Biella from Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee). Several trails are available, including routes via the normal path to Croda del Becco and a loop that passes the rifugio. The hike can be steep, with significant elevation gain.
Rifugio Biella is a hub for many trails. Popular options include routes to Al Munt de Sennes, Al Lago di Foses, and the Alta Via 1. Hikers also use it as a base for exploring the Croda del Becco area.
No, Rifugio Biella is a mountain hut and is only accessible by hiking or by other non-motorized means. The nearest access points are typically trailheads from surrounding valleys or lakes.
Rifugio Biella is situated at a significant altitude, often requiring a substantial hike to reach. One review mentions a steep hike with 950m of elevation gain.
Yes, Rifugio Biella is a key stop on the Alta Via 1, making it accessible from other huts along this long-distance trekking route. It's considered a good first stop for AV1 trekkers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during the summer hiking season, as beds can fill up quickly.
Rifugio Biella is typically open during the summer hiking season. Specific opening and closing dates can vary, so it's best to check their official information or contact them directly.
Pricing varies depending on the type of accommodation (dormitory vs. private room) and whether you are a member of an alpine club. Expect to pay for accommodation, dinner, and breakfast.
Often, mountain huts like Rifugio Biella offer discounts to members of recognized alpine clubs. It's advisable to check with your club or the rifugio for details.
Upon arrival, you'll typically check in at the reception or with the staff to confirm your booking and receive your room assignment.
🎫 🛏️ Onsite Experience
Dormitory rooms are common, offering a communal sleeping experience. Some rooms may have curtains instead of doors, offering limited privacy.
Showers may not always be operational, and even when they are, the water might be very cold. Many visitors opt to freshen up at the sink.
The toilets are typically Turkish-style (squat toilets), and while generally clean, they are a basic amenity.
Access to Wi-Fi is unlikely, and mobile phone signal can be weak or non-existent in this remote mountain location.
Access to power outlets can be very limited. It's wise to bring a portable power bank for your devices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The rifugio serves hearty, traditional mountain cuisine. Popular dishes include pasta bolognese, and meals are generally described as delicious and plentiful.
While not explicitly detailed, traditional rifugio menus often include pasta and vegetable dishes. It's best to inquire about specific dietary needs upon arrival or when booking.
Dinner is usually served in the evening after hikers return, and breakfast is available in the morning. Specific times can be confirmed with the staff.
Yes, a selection of hot drinks, beers, and wines are available for purchase.
While primarily known for overnight stays and dinner, it's likely possible to get lunch or snacks, especially during operating hours. Inquiring upon arrival is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The surrounding Dolomites offer stunning landscapes. Capture panoramic mountain views, sunrise/sunset over the peaks, and the charming rifugio itself. The nearby Lago di Braies is also a popular photo spot.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers opportunities for capturing the rugged mountain terrain.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks and details. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions and long exposures.
The trails leading towards Croda del Becco offer excellent vantage points. Exploring the ridges and higher ground around the rifugio will reveal numerous scenic spots.
Yes, you can take photos inside the rifugio, but be mindful of other guests' privacy, especially in shared dormitory spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Trekkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Routes
When planning your hike, consider the terrain and weather. While summer offers the best conditions, be prepared for rapid changes. The trails can be steep and rocky, requiring sturdy hiking boots and adequate preparation. For those seeking more challenging adventures, the rifugio is also a base for exploring Croda del Becco (Seekofel), offering spectacular panoramic views for experienced mountaineers. Always check local conditions and trail status before setting out, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
The Rifugio Experience: Rustic Charm and Community
Despite the basic facilities, the food is consistently praised, with hearty meals like pasta bolognese being a highlight. The staff are generally noted as friendly and helpful, with the host, Stefano, being highlighted as an experienced mountaineer who offers valuable local tips. It's important to note that power outlets can be scarce, so carrying a portable power bank is a wise precaution. For those seeking a luxurious stay, Rifugio Biella might not be the ideal choice. But for adventurous travelers who appreciate a friendly atmosphere and a genuine mountain hut experience, it's considered a perfect and memorable stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit