Photographer Rachel Keenan spent time hiking the Alta Via 1 South. A meditative hut to hut trek on the "High Way" through the spectacular Dolomite Alps. Follow her journey here.

Hiking out of Cortina on our first day

From Cortina, we escaped into the mountains through the forests as the peaks of the Cinque Torri come into view. 

We stopped for a cappuccino and a cake at Refugio Cinque Torri, aptly named for the famous five towers of rock that sit behind.

Enjoying the views as we hiked up to Rifugio Nuvolau

We reached Rifugio Averau then walked for a further 20-minutes to the oldest Rifugio in the Dolomites— Nuvolau. 

Route planning, Rifugio Nuvolau

For our first night's accommodation on the trail, we stayed in the oldest rifugio in the Dolomites. We spent the evening discussing the next day's route whilst enjoying a fantastic meal and excellent wine. 

Rifugio Averau to Rifugio Passo Giau

The next day, we walked through beautiful wildflower meadows on the route between Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Passo Giau.

Refugio Vazzoler

This evening we watched a beautiful sunset on the mountains as we enjoyed a beer outside at Refugio Vazzoler.

La Valle Agordina

Our last full day on the trail didn't disappoint, with incredible views from a high pass through Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi

A quick dip!

On the last day, we discovered a small waterfall very close to the road, where we hiked out to get our bus. We just had to jump in for a final swim.

To follow in Rachel's footsteps, learn more about the Alta Via 1 South here, or contact us for advice & inspiration.