Bivouac malga Alvis

Bivacco malga Alvis sits at 2,621m on the Paternkofel massif in the Dolomites, accessible from the Tre Croci pass (2,457m) via a 2.5-hour approach on marked trails. The hut works as a base for ascending Paternkofel (2,744m) or traversing toward Tre Croci and Sorau peaks. Approach from Cortina d'Ampezzo takes 4-5 hours if starting from town. Winter access is unpredictable due to snow conditions and avalanche risk—come prepared with crampons and ice axe if attempting the winter approach.
The bivouac is a working alpine pasture hut (malga) converted to shelter mountaineers. It holds 20-25 people in tight quarters on a first-come basis. Meals and hot drinks are available during staffed seasons, but this is not a hotel—expect basic accommodation and bring your sleeping bag. The hut operates late June through September, with limited facilities outside this window. No WiFi. Water comes from mountain springs. Toilets are basic. This is genuinely a mountain shelter, not a comfortable refuge.
Show up early or arrive midweek if possible, as summer weekends fill quickly. There is no advance booking system—arrival is first-come, first-served. Bring cash (euros) for meals and any charges. If approaching in shoulder seasons (May, early June, late September), contact the managing pasture operator in advance to confirm staffing and safe access. This hut demands self-sufficiency and realistic expectations about mountain accommodation.