Rifugio Altissimo
Short hike for a great lunch
If you're looking for a winter adventure in the Italian Alps, hiking to Rifugio Altissimo from Rifugio Graziani is a must-do. This trail, which is a popular hiking route in the Trentino region during the summer, transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months.
The trail is approximately 12 kilometers long and took us around 5 hours to complete. The starting point, in winter, is the parking in San Valentino (TN) and then there’s about 4km of asphalt road to Rifugio Graziani. As we began the hike and were immediately struck by the beauty of the (half) snow-covered landscape.
The first part of the trail was relatively easy, with a gentle incline that gradually increases as we approach Rifugio Altissimo. The snow-covered path is well-marked, and you won't have any trouble navigating your way. We walk through several alpine meadows and pastures, where you'll see snow-covered trees and wildflowers peeking out from under the snow. Obviously we choose (aka mistake made) the freeride and we avoid all the hairpin and in less then 2 hour we were in the hut.
As you continue on the trail, the scenery becomes even more stunning. The snow-covered peaks rise majestically in the distance, and the silence is only interrupted by the sound of your footsteps.
Approaching Rifugio Altissimo, you'll see the hut rising up in the distance, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The hut, which is located at an altitude of 2079 meters above sea level, is warm and welcoming. Inside it’s cozy, super warm and food+hot drinks are waiting for us.
From the incredibile menu I choose the Canederli with butter and my sherpa Davide choose the Polenta Lasagna. We both choose an incredible “local” beer and a nice dessert to complete the meal.
After a 2000mt coffee we decided to take a look around the hut and discovered an incredible view over Garda Lake and some far away mountains… It was pretty foggy that day so we were lucky just to grasp this view.
The hike back to Rifugio Graziani is just as beautiful, and the scenery seems even more magical as the sun begins to set behind the mountains. As you descend, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The trail is just as well-marked and easy to navigate on the way back down, and you'll be back at Rifugio Graziani in no time.
Hiking to Rifugio Altissimo from Rifugio Graziani in the winter is an unforgettable experience that every adventure-seeker should add to their bucket list. The snow-covered landscape, stunning views, and warm hospitality of the Rifugio Altissimo hut make this hike one that you won't forget anytime soon.
Coming back home together we decided to close the day with some mindblowing tortellini, home-made tortellini. Davide bought them in Valleggio sul Mincio, a nearby small town, very famous for these delicious pasta. Some butter and some sage and to close some Parmiggiano cheese and dinner is ready. Another incredible adventure achieved with my buddy Davide!
