Cortina d’Ampezzo looks like a scene out of a storybook. With its bucolic chalets, imposing snow-capped mountains, and shimmering alpine lakes, travelers flock from around the globe to take advantage of the upscale resort town’s winter and summer sports scenes. Peppered across the peaks of the Dolomites are countless mountain huts, or “rifugios”, where travelers can relax and refresh themselves. Whether you need to warm up from a day of shredding on the slopes, or are just eager to try a home-cooked Ampezzo meal, these are the top five mountain huts in Cortina d’Ampezzo. 
Chalet Ria de Saco
If Ampezzo culture and Italian high fashion had a baby, it would be Chalet Ria de Saco. The refuge was recently purchased by the Kraler family, who have owned and operated their luxurious Franz Kraler boutiques in the Dolomites since the 1980s. Chalet Ria de Saco is both an alpine restaurant and an exclusive venue, hosting a number of events in collaboration with the world’s biggest fashion houses. The hut’s chef, Graziano Prest, utilizes seasonal ingredients from the Dolomites to elevate traditional Ampezzo dishes, such as pumpkin gnocchi with smoked ricotta sauce, and venison goulash with potato and horseradish foam.
Masi Wine Bar al Druscié
Nothing warms you up faster than a glass of wine. And no one knows this better than Masi. Producing wine since the 1700s, Masi has brought their succulent selection of wines to new heights – literally. Perched at an altitude of 1778 meters, Masi Wine Bar al Druscié offers vibes, views, and vino. Visitors to the wine bar can sip on Masi’s famous Amarone, while taking in the lofty views of Monte Tofana, Monte Cristallo and the sweeping Cortina valley.
Rifugio Averau
Rifugio Averau is a mountain hut nestled on the slopes of Cortina d’Ampezzo’s famous 5 Torri area. While the hut does offer rooms for overnight stays, the gastronomic experience is its crowned jewel. In addition to an indoor restaurant, the hut is famous for its terrace, where weary hikers and skiers can enjoy a well-earned meal, snack or beverage with a panoramic view of some of the most iconic landmarks of the Cortina region. At the core of Rifugio Averau is the idea of “Stammtisch.” The term has no direct translation in English, but is best described as a round-table or friendly get-together, where people converse and exchange ideas.
Rifugio Pomedes
Stepping into the restaurant at Rifugio Pomedes is like stepping back in time. With its rustic interior, exposed wooden beams, and quirky decor, this mountain hut is the perfect place to really immerse yourself in the mountain culture of yore. The restaurant at Rifugio Pomedes features simple, home-cooked meals, authentic to the Ampezzo region — Tyrolean cold cuts and cheeses, casunziei (half-moon shaped pasta) filled with beets, and beef goulash to name a few. The hut has a large terrace where you can dig into your scrumptious spread with views of Monte Pelmo, Croda da Lago and Lastoni di Formin.
Baita Piè Tofana
If you’re looking for a contemporary twist on traditional mountain cuisine, look no further. Baita Piè Tofana sits at the foot of the Tofane, and specializes in elegant and modern dishes with an emphasis on local, raw, and seasonal ingredients. Central to the Baita Piè Tofana experience is the “Larin,” or fireplace. Guests are encouraged to gather around the fireplace, share delicious food, and indulge in one of the restaurant’s over-600 wine options.
FAQs:
Q: Can you stay overnight at Rifugio Averau?
A: Yes, Rifugio Averau offers multiple lodging options, including dorms, double rooms, and family suites.
Q: Does Chalet Ria de Saco take reservations?
A: Yes, you can make a reservation at Chalet Ria de Saco by emailing [email protected].
Q: Are Rifugio Pomedes’ restaurant and terrace open year-round?
A: Both the restaurant and terrace at Rifugio Pomedes are open from late June to mid-September, and from early December to early April.
