Our second day on the Alta Via 1 was one of our favorite days of the trip. The hike from Fanes to Lagazuoi was 12km (7.5 miles) with 1150m/450m elevation gain/loss (3800ft/1500ft). It was an inconspicuous start to the day with easy walking on old military roads from Fanes. We hiked past Malga Fanes Grande and Passo Tadega to a trail junction where we turned left onto trail n.20B. From here we had a 330m (1100 ft) climb to Forcella del Lago (2486m). The views got better and better as we approached the notch, which marked our entrance into the dramatic and stunning Cortina Dolomites. From Forcella del Lago we could see the full route we would take to Lagazuoi - we had quite a descent and climb ahead of us. The effort was well worth it though as the views and light were gorgeous as we approached Lagazuoi and once we crested the ridge - wow! Lagazuoi is the highest point of the AV1 2752m (9029 ft) and has stunning views in every direction. The views, as well as the terrific day hikes available, made this our favorite refugio of the trip.

We had intended to hike further on the AV1, but discovered most of the huts had closed early for the season. No problem, we decided to stay three nights at Lagazuoi which afforded us the opportunity for several great day hikes to Rifugio Giussani (circumnavigating the mighty Tofane di Rozes), Rifugio Novulau, and Piccolo Lagazuoi behind the hut. There are also extensive tunnels, WWI ruins, and an open air museum at Lagazuoi which we explored.