Tre Cime di Lavaredo: A Perfect Day Trip Guide with Cadini di Misurina & WW1 Tunnels
Welcome to the Dolomites! Visiting the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, or "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," is one of the most breathtaking day trips from Cortina d’Ampezzo. Adding in the historical WW1 tunnels along the Tre Cime loop and the nearby Cadini di Misurina lookout makes it even more memorable. This guide will help you plan the best routes, hikes, and timing based on my personal experience exploring these trails!
Tre Cime in June 2024
Getting to Tre Cime: Transport Options
By Bus from Cortina d’Ampezzo
If you're traveling by bus, Dolomiti Bus 30/31 connects Cortina d’Ampezzo to Misurina, where you can switch to Shuttle Bus 31 for the final ascent to Rifugio Auronzo. This bus ticket costs 4 EUR per person one-way.
Step 1: Take Dolomiti Bus 30/31 from Cortina to Misurina (service typically starts at 7:30 AM with buses running every hour in high season).
Step 2: From Misurina, board Shuttle Bus 31 to Rifugio Auronzo, which runs every 30 minutes during peak season. You can check the timetable here.
Note: The last shuttle bus back to Misurina typically leaves around 6:25 PM in high season, so those taking the bus won’t have the option to stay for sunset.
Driving from Cortina
For those driving, head toward Misurina, where you’ll reach the toll road that leads up to Rifugio Auronzo.
Toll Fee: The road toll is 30 EUR per car, which includes parking until midnight. This can only be purchased at the toll booth but can be purchased with cash or card.
Opening Time: The car park opens at 6:00 AM, so early arrivals will avoid traffic and have the best chance to secure a spot. Between late October and late May, the road here is completely closed.
Overnight Parking: Many travelers in campervans stay overnight at Rifugio Auronzo, which is generally tolerated. However, if you stay past 12:00 AM, you will incur a second full-day charge upon exiting, meaning the total will be 60 EUR for cars. The 30 EUR toll covers parking until midnight, allowing flexibility for those who wish to linger.
Make it stand out
Parking Capacity: The Rifugio Auronzo Car Park has a 700-car capacity, and entry is managed closely at the toll booth, which monitors the number of cars entering and leaving in real-time. Arriving early helps avoid delays, as the gate closes when the lot reaches capacity and only reopens as cars exit. In high season, you can wait up to 2 hours to drive the toll road.
Digital Signage: There’s a digital sign at the toll booth that indicates how many parking spaces are left. If this number reaches zero, you won’t be able to enter the parking lot. You can either wait until a space frees up or consider alternative transportation options to reach Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Tre Cime Toll Road Opening Hours and Seasonal Access
The opening times of the Tre Cime toll road to Rifugio Auronzo vary by season:
Summer: The toll road is accessible 24 hours a day, with staff present from 6 AM to 8 PM. If you arrive outside these hours, collect a ticket from the machine on the way up and pay upon exiting.
Spring: Access is less predictable, as the toll road doesn’t open until the winter snow has melted, typically by late May. This timing can vary each year, so it's advisable to contact the Auronzo Tourist office to confirm if the road is open before your trip.
Autumn: The toll road usually operates until late October or early November, closing once the first snow arrives. The road will remain closed until the following spring.
Suggested Itinerary: Tre Cime, WW1 Tunnels & Cadini di Misurina
1. Start at Rifugio Auronzo
Once you arrive, either by car or shuttle, you’ll find yourself at Rifugio Auronzo with breathtaking views of Tre Cime. From here, start on Trail 101, which forms a loop around the Three Peaks. This loop can be completed in a half-day, allowing for additional exploration afterward if desired.
2. Morning Hike: Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop with WW1 Tunnel
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3.5-4 hours for the full loop, including the tunnel detour
Follow the classic Trail 101 around Tre Cime for one of the most scenic hikes in the Dolomites. Along the way, you’ll pass by Rifugio Lavaredo, a popular rest stop for a quick snack. A highlight of the loop is the WW1 tunnel, located near Rifugio Locatelli (Dreizinnenhütte).
WW1 Tunnel Detour: This route takes you through historic wartime tunnels, giving you a peek into the region’s history. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the tunnels, as they are narrow and dark in sections. Be prepared for some dampness in the tunnels, and bring sturdy shoes for this part of the hike.
Via Ferrata Information: Accessing the WW1 tunnels requires navigating a short via ferrata section. While it’s not technically difficult, some sections may involve scrambling and exposure, so it's essential to be prepared.
WW1 Tunnel Duration: 1-1.5 hours round trip from Rifugio Locatelli
After the WW1 tunnel exploration, return to Trail 101 and continue back to Rifugio Locatelli, where you’ll have amazing views of Tre Cime’s north faces.
My Experience: When I visited, we took a leisurely pace on the Tre Cime loop, taking in each new viewpoint. We marveled at the rugged peaks, got lost in the grandeur of the landscape, and spent more time than expected, leaving us without enough time to fully explore Cadini di Misurina. If you’re planning on additional hikes, aim to keep a steady pace to stay on schedule.
3. Lunch Break at Rifugio Locatelli
Rifugio Locatelli is a great place to stop for lunch, offering panoramic views and a selection of Italian dishes. Try their polenta or a bowl of warm soup, especially after exploring the tunnels.
4. Afternoon Hike: Cadini di Misurina Lookout
After lunch, head back toward Rifugio Auronzo and pick up the trail to Cadini di Misurina for a stunning lookout with panoramic views over the jagged peaks of Cadini. This trail is shorter but involves some steep sections and an exposed ridge, rewarding you with breathtaking photo opportunities.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some exposure
Duration: 45 minutes each way from Rifugio Auronzo (1.5 hours round trip)
Views: The lookout provides a dramatic, picture-perfect view over the Cadini peaks and is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites.
5. Prepare for Sunset at Rifugio Auronzo
If you’re driving, staying for sunset is a memorable way to cap off the day. After the Cadini di Misurina hike, head back to Rifugio Auronzo, where you’ll have time to relax before sunset.
Sunset Viewpoint: Walk a short way along Trail 101 for a stunning vantage point facing Tre Cime.
Sunset Timing: Plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before sunset to find a good spot and settle in for photos as the peaks turn shades of pink, gold, and purple.
Note: Temperatures can drop quickly in the evening, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
Evening Return to Cortina
After the sunset fades, it’s a 40-minute drive back to Cortina d’Ampezzo. The parking toll covers until midnight, so you’re free to take your time. For those in campervans, overnight stays in the car park are common and usually permitted, allowing the option to enjoy sunrise the next morning as well.
Seasonal Considerations
Be prepared for snow during the shoulder seasons of June and September/October. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so it’s wise to check the weather and trail conditions beforehand.
While Tre Cime is undeniably beautiful, it can also be very crowded, especially during peak summer months. Arriving early can help you experience the area with fewer visitors.
Tips for Planning Your Day
Arrive Early: The car park opens at 6:00 AM, and arriving early will help you avoid potential waits and enjoy quieter trails.
Dress in Layers: Weather changes quickly at high elevations, so bring warm layers and a waterproof jacket.
Bring Essentials: Pack water, snacks, and a flashlight for the WW1 tunnel. A headlamp is helpful if you’re staying until after dark.
Stay Mindful of Time: The incredible views can be captivating, but keep track of the time, especially if you want to include Cadini di Misurina in your itinerary.
What to Bring for the Via Ferrata:
Helmet: To protect against falling rocks and accidents.
Harness and Via Ferrata Kit: These are necessary if you wish to use the cables for safety; some sections can be steep.
Flashlight or Headlamp: For exploring the tunnels, as lighting may be minimal inside.
Proper Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or approach shoes with good grip are recommended for stability.
Visiting Tre Cime was an unforgettable experience for us, but it’s easy to lose track of time at such a beautiful place. By planning your day with both Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina in mind, you’ll be able to take in even more of the Dolomites’ stunning views.
