Rifugio Forestale Costa Gusela

Rifugio Forestale Costa Gusela sits at 1,645m on the northern flank of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo massif in the Dolomites. Access is via the Val d'Ansiei from Cortina d'Ampezzo: allow 2.5 hours for the 7km hike on a well-marked trail that gains 500m elevation steadily through larch forest and alpine meadow. The final approach crosses open terrain with views across the Dolomites to the Tre Cime. Summer hikers use this as a base for traversing the Tre Cime circuit or accessing the Alta Via 1 and 5. Winter access is unreliable; the hut often closes from November through April depending on snow conditions.
The rifugio is a small, simple mountain shelter with capacity for around 30 guests in dormitory-style rooms. Meals are home-cooked Italian mountain food; half-board is standard. Hot water and basic washing facilities are available. There is no electricity or mobile signal. The hut operates as a working forestry station, so it has a working atmosphere rather than a tourism focus. Full board is the only meal option offered.
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August. Contact the hut directly by telephone or post—online booking is not available. The peak season is June through September. Expect the rifugio to be fully booked most weekends during summer. Winter visits are possible only in good conditions; call ahead to confirm access and opening status.