Rifugio Auronzo
Gateway to iconic Dolomite hikes like Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina, offering stunning mountain views and legendary sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Rifugio Auronzo
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to iconic Dolomite hikes like Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina, offering stunning mountain views and legendary sunsets.
"The views make the steep price of the toll road and less-than-stellar food entirely worthwhile."
🚗 Book Parking Online
Reserve your spot on the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the trails around Rifugio Auronzo. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint
Short hike from Rifugio Auronzo
An otherworldly landscape with jagged peaks offering surreal, dramatic views. A must-see!
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike
Loop trail starting from Rifugio Auronzo
Iconic three peaks forming a dramatic natural amphitheater. A classic Dolomites experience.
Sunset and Sunrise Views
Rifugio Auronzo parking area
Witnessing the sky ablaze with color over the Dolomites is an unforgettable spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Parking in Advance!
Timing is Everything for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Online
Reserve your spot on the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the trails around Rifugio Auronzo. +1 :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Refuge water is non-potable. Carry at least 3L per person. :droplet:
🍎 Pack Snacks
Consider bringing food from Lake Misurina; it's cheaper and tastier than refuge options. :apple:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Online
Reserve your spot on the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the trails around Rifugio Auronzo. +1 :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Refuge water is non-potable. Carry at least 3L per person. :droplet:
🍎 Pack Snacks
Consider bringing food from Lake Misurina; it's cheaper and tastier than refuge options. :apple:
📸 Wait for Fog to Clear
If fog obscures views, be patient; it often clears to reveal stunning scenery. :camerawithflash:
🔌 Bring an Extension Cord
Rooms have limited plugs; an extension cord can be very useful. :electric_plug:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rifugio Auronzo is lauded for its unparalleled access to breathtaking Dolomite scenery, particularly the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint and Tre Cime di Lavaredo hikes. Visitors rave about the spectacular sunsets and sunrises visible from the parking area. However, the dining experience is frequently criticized for being overpriced and subpar, with many recommending bringing your own food. Some guests have also reported issues with staff behavior and inconsistent facility availability.
"The location is undeniably amazing! The rooms were standard but the restaurant had great views. We had dinner and breakfast included in our stay and we got more than enough food! The food was alright (recommend the lasagna). The only negative point was that the price was quite high compared to other huts in the vicinity."
Maria Withrow
"The hut is for people who love to do some Instagram pictures. If you are actually hiking and respecting the mountains you should avoid this hut at all costs. We stayed overnight. The prices are not transparent. They do as they please, we payed different amounts for the same drink. The food is the rest of the day so it’s laying there all day long. Most of it was cold and compared to other huts pretty bad! Everything is made to maximize the earnings. Most expensive prices even though it has a road leading right up to the hut. We stayed at huts more secluded and they have been cheaper! They don’t care about trash as well, you get all the drinks served in plastic cups.
Rooms are not too bad and the location is good for starting hikes.
Would not recommend if you prefer a real experience and don’t want to feel like a burden for the people working there!"
Philipp
"Our experience at Rifugio Auronzo was very disappointing. The food here is far below Italian standards and truly spoils the mountain experience. This should be a wonderful place for tourists to rest and enjoy a good meal with beautiful views – especially considering that people pay a high price (40€ per car) just to reach Tre Cime – but instead, the quality is shockingly poor.
On our first visit, we ordered hot dishes (very expensive) but couldn’t even finish them because they were simply not tasty. This year, we decided to try panini instead, but what we received was nothing more than a dry piece of bread with a thin slice of salami – no sauce, no vegetables, nothing. An absolute disappointment.
This place really needs improvement, because charging such high prices for such poor quality is unfair to visitors."
Paulina Leitienė
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Rifugio Auronzo is by driving up a toll road. You must book your parking spot online in advance, costing around €30-€40 per car. Public transport, like shuttle buses from towns such as Sesto, is also a recommended alternative. +2
Yes, public transport options are available. Shuttle buses from nearby towns like Sesto or San Candido can take you directly to the Rifugio Auronzo parking area, which is often recommended over driving yourself.
The toll road is scenic but can be steep and winding. It's essential to book your access and parking slot online in advance, as entry is regulated. The cost is approximately €30-€40 per vehicle. +1
While not a designated campsite, some travelers have reported camping overnight in the parking area after paying the toll, enjoying the sunset and sunrise. However, this is not officially sanctioned camping.
The booking system for parking at Rifugio Auronzo has specific time slots. It's crucial to check the official booking website for exact entry and exit times associated with your reservation, as they can be restrictive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Since May 2025, booking a permit online for the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is mandatory. This reservation secures your access and parking spot.
The price for the toll road and parking at Rifugio Auronzo is around €30-€40 per car for a full day. This fee grants you access to the trailhead for popular hikes. +1
Rifugio Auronzo itself is typically open for accommodation and dining during the hiking season, generally from June to September/October. The toll road access has specific hours tied to your parking reservation. +1
Yes, you can access Rifugio Auronzo via public shuttle buses from nearby towns like San Candido or Sesto, which is often a more convenient and less stressful option than driving.
Currently, there are no widely advertised discounts for Rifugio Auronzo entry or parking. The primary cost is the toll road fee, which is per vehicle. +1
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Rifugio Auronzo is the main starting point for the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop hike and the shorter, stunning hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint.
The hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint is generally considered easy to moderate. It's a relatively short round trip (about 30-45 minutes each way) with moderate elevation gain.
For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Sunrises and sunsets offer spectacular views, but midday can be very busy.
Yes, Rifugio Auronzo offers accommodation (dormitory and private rooms), a restaurant, and restrooms. However, showers may have quotas and are not always available.
Weather in the Dolomites can change rapidly. Expect cool temperatures even in summer, and be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain. Check forecasts before you go.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews suggest the food at Rifugio Auronzo is generally considered overpriced and less tasty compared to other mountain huts in the area. Many recommend bringing your own food.
You can purchase delicious and more affordable cheese and cold cuts at SPAR in Lake Misurina. This is a popular tip for those looking to pack their own meals.
While specific vegetarian options aren't detailed, the general feedback on food quality and taste is low. It's advisable to inquire directly or rely on packed meals.
The water at the refuge is not potable, so you must bring your own water supply. Carrying at least 3 liters per person is highly recommended.
Yes, you can dine at the restaurant at Rifugio Auronzo even if you are not staying overnight. However, be aware that some reviews mention even the toilet facilities might have a charge.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cadini di Misurina viewpoint offers incredibly dramatic and surreal photos. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo also provides iconic, breathtaking mountain vistas. Don't miss sunrise and sunset!
Early morning or late afternoon light creates the most dramatic and beautiful shots of the Tre Cime. Sunrise and sunset paint the peaks in stunning colors. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast mountain landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the Tre Cime peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone regulations can be strict in national parks and protected areas. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near Rifugio Auronzo or the Tre Cime.
Don't despair! If fog rolls in, wait it out. It often clears to reveal spectacular views, and sometimes the fog itself can create moody, atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Tre Cime loop is longer but can be adapted for families with younger children by doing a shorter section. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as food options can be limited and pricey. Key Recommendations:
* Choose the Cadini di Misurina hike for a shorter, impactful family outing.
* Pack ample snacks and water from Lake Misurina to save money and ensure kids are happy.
* Check the weather forecast as mountain conditions can change rapidly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget Tips:
* Pack all your meals and snacks from lower elevations (e.g., Lake Misurina).
* Bring reusable water bottles and refill them if possible (though refuge water isn't potable).
* Explore free activities like enjoying the sunset/sunrise from the parking area if not staying overnight.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The unique jagged peaks of Cadini di Misurina provide surreal compositions, while the Tre Cime offer classic alpine grandeur. Photography Tips:
* Arrive early or stay late for the best light and fewer crowds.
* Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions.
* Be patient if fog appears; it can create dramatic atmospheric shots or clear to reveal stunning vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint: A Surreal Landscape
+2Key Takeaway: This viewpoint offers a different, more dramatic aesthetic than the classic Tre Cime views and is easily accessible from Rifugio Auronzo. It's a highly recommended short hike for its visual impact.
Traveler Tip: Some visitors have noted that the path can feel a bit exposed or challenging if you're afraid of heights, but the views are consistently described as 'worth it.'
Navigating the Toll Road and Parking
Booking Nuances: The booking process can sometimes be confusing, with specific time slots for entry. It's vital to carefully read the instructions on the official booking website (auronzo.info) to ensure you select the correct time for your visit. Failure to book can mean being turned away.
Alternatives: For those who prefer not to drive or deal with parking reservations, public shuttle buses from towns like San Candido or Sesto are a viable and often recommended alternative. These shuttles provide direct access to the rifugio.
Dining and Provisions: What to Expect
Smart Shopping: A popular tip from Reddit users is to stock up on cheese and cold cuts from SPAR in Lake Misurina. These items are described as much more delicious and significantly cheaper than what's offered at the rifugio. It's also advised to carry at least 3 liters of water per person, as the refuge's water is non-potable.
Practicalities: If you do plan to eat at the rifugio, be aware that even basic facilities like the toilet might incur a charge. For those staying overnight, electricity is unstable, and there's usually only one plug per room, so an extension cord can be a lifesaver.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit