---
title: "Rifugio Nuvolau"
type: "mountain-hut"
lang: "en"
elevation_m: 2575
capacity: "24 Guests"
opening_dates: "June - September"
region: "Veneto"
locality: "Cortina d'Ampezzo"
url: "https://dolomites-guide.com/mountain-huts/rifugio-nuvolau/"
description: "Guide to Rifugio Nuvolau at 2,575 m atop Monte Nuvolau. The oldest refuge in the Dolomites since 1883, with a legendary 360-degree panorama."
---

# Rifugio Nuvolau

The oldest mountain refuge in the Dolomites, built in 1883 atop Monte Nuvolau, commanding a legendary 360-degree panorama of peaks from Marmolada to Tofane.

## At a glance

- Elevation: 2575 m
- Capacity: 24 Guests
- Opening: June - September
- Region: Veneto
- Locality: Cortina d'Ampezzo

## Description

Rifugio Nuvolau crowns the summit of **Monte Nuvolau** at 2,575 m (8,448 ft), making it one of the highest and most spectacularly positioned huts in the Dolomites. Built in 1883, it holds the distinction of being the oldest mountain refuge in the entire range. The hut accommodates 24 guests and is open from June through September.

The 360-degree panorama from the summit terrace is widely regarded as the finest viewpoint in the Dolomites. On clear days the vista stretches from **Marmolada** and its glacier to the south, across the **Civetta** and **Pelmo**, northward to the **Tofane** and **Cristallo**, and east toward the **Tre Cime di Lavaredo**. Sunrise from the hut is an experience that draws hikers from across Europe.

The most popular approach starts from **Passo Giau** and climbs steadily for about 1.5 hours (1.5 hours), or from **Passo Falzarego** via **Rifugio Averau**. Despite its modest capacity the hut fills quickly, so booking ahead is essential for overnight stays. The final scramble to the summit involves easy but exposed rock steps with fixed cables.