Bivouac Aia dell'Orsara

Bivacco Aia dell'Orsara sits at 1,890m in the Dolomites near Cortina d'Ampezzo. Reach it from the Passo Ghedina area via a 2–2.5 hour scramble northeast through limestone terrain. The route is straightforward but exposed in places; winter access requires mountaineering skills. Most hikers approach from the Tre Croci area, which adds roughly 45 minutes each way.

This is a basic bivouac—essentially an unguarded stone shelter with sleeping platforms for 4–6 people. There are no staffed facilities, no meals, no water on-site. You bring everything: sleeping bag, stove, fuel, food, and water. The shelter offers wind and rain protection; it's maintained by local volunteers. The location works well as a high base camp for traverses across the Cortina peaks or as an emergency shelter during longer mountaineering days.

Bivouac shelters operate on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. There's no booking system and no guardian—you simply arrive and stay. Bring a headtorch and expect basic conditions. In July and August, plan to arrive by early afternoon as the shelter fills quickly. The approach is safest June through September, though experienced mountaineers use it in winter. Always check current conditions locally before departing; rockfall and weather can block access.