Demanding
About
Rifugio Cesare Branca sits at 2,493m on the Paneveggio plateau in the Dolomites, roughly 2 hours from Passo Rolle (1,988m). Most walkers approach via the marked trail from the car park at Passo Rolle, heading north across open alpine meadow. The hut serves as a hub for ridge walking and peak bagging in the Pale di San Martino massif—particularly the ascent of Cima della Vezzana (2,812m), which takes 2–3 hours from the hut.
The rifugio is a working mountain base, not a resort. It has roughly 50 beds split across simple dormitories and a few double rooms. Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included with accommodation). The kitchen serves hearty mountain food—expect polenta, pasta, and local Trentino specialties. There's a small bar and a wood stove in the common room. Water is piped from springs; showers are available but hot water is limited. The hut is open mid-June through September.
Book directly by email or phone at least 8 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. July and August fill quickly with guided parties. June and September offer quieter conditions and still reliable weather. The hut is CAI-affiliated; contact them for current rates and availability. Pay cash on arrival if possible—card facilities are basic.
The rifugio is a working mountain base, not a resort. It has roughly 50 beds split across simple dormitories and a few double rooms. Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included with accommodation). The kitchen serves hearty mountain food—expect polenta, pasta, and local Trentino specialties. There's a small bar and a wood stove in the common room. Water is piped from springs; showers are available but hot water is limited. The hut is open mid-June through September.
Book directly by email or phone at least 8 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. July and August fill quickly with guided parties. June and September offer quieter conditions and still reliable weather. The hut is CAI-affiliated; contact them for current rates and availability. Pay cash on arrival if possible—card facilities are basic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (July-August); shoulder seasons can be booked 1-2 weeks out. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
The hut typically operates from June through September; exact dates depend on snow conditions. Contact the rifugio by phone to confirm current opening dates before planning your trip.
From Passo Rolle car park (1,988m), follow the marked trail north across alpine meadow to the hut at 2,493m—roughly 2 hours. The approach is straightforward, with about 500m elevation gain.
With around 50 beds, Rifugio Cesare Branca provides basic accommodation, meals, and water; showers are typically limited or absent—pack accordingly. It's a working mountain base, not a hotel.
Yes for families with hiking experience; the approach from Passo Rolle is non-technical and well-marked. Peak ascents like Cima della Vezzana (2,812m) require confidence on exposed terrain and are better for experienced hikers.
Location
46.4148, 10.5840
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Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
5.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- SAT
- Season
- "aperto da marzo a settembre"
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0342 935501
- Website
- https://www.rifugiobranca.it/
Activities
Featured In
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