Highlight • Mountain Hut
Passo le Selle Hut
Hiking
4.9
(201)
Mountain biking
5.0
(15)
Rifugio Passo le Selle, also known as Rifugio Passo delle Selle or Bergvagabunden Hütte, is a historic mountain hut nestled at an elevation of 2,530 meters on the rugged Cresta di Costabella in the Italian Dolomites. This strategically positioned refuge sits on the border between Trentino and Veneto, offering a gateway between the scenic Val Monzoni, a side valley of Val di Fassa, and the Valle San Pellegrino, near the renowned Passo San Pellegrino. It serves as a vital base…
Tips
July 16, 2020
Hiking
•July 15, 2018
Hiking
•November 17, 2022
Hiking
•Sign up for a free komoot account to get 9 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Passo le Selle Hut
4.6
(11)
71
hikers
11.6km
05:18
900m
900m
5.0
(5)
26
hikers
13.9km
06:04
1,060m
1,070m
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
11.8km
05:47
750m
750m
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,510 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 13 March
-1°C
-4°C
74 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary access points and parking options for Rifugio Passo le Selle?
The main access point is from Passo San Pellegrino, where you can find parking facilities. From there, you can hike via trail 604, which takes about two hours. For a shorter ascent, the Costabella chairlift can reduce the walking time to approximately 45 minutes. Another route is from Val Monzoni via trail 603, which is a longer, three-hour hike.
Is Rifugio Passo le Selle accessible via public transport?
While direct public transport to the hut itself is not available, you can reach Passo San Pellegrino by bus from nearby towns like Moena or Falcade. From Passo San Pellegrino, the hut is then accessible on foot or by using the Costabella chairlift during its operating season.
Are there family-friendly hiking options around Rifugio Passo le Selle?
Yes, while some routes are challenging, the ascent from Passo San Pellegrino, especially when utilizing the Costabella chairlift, can be a more manageable option for families with older children. The hut itself is a rewarding destination, and the views are spectacular for all ages. Always assess the fitness level of your family before embarking on a hike in the Dolomites.
Is Rifugio Passo le Selle dog-friendly?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Dolomites, but it's always advisable to check directly with the rifugio regarding their specific policy for overnight stays or indoor access. When hiking with dogs, ensure they are kept on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and always carry water and waste bags.
How crowded does Rifugio Passo le Selle get, especially during peak season?
As a popular destination with stunning views and historical significance, Rifugio Passo le Selle can get quite busy, particularly on weekends and during the peak summer months (July and August). Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure parking and enjoy a more tranquil experience on the trails.
What are the options for accommodation near Rifugio Passo le Selle?
Rifugio Passo le Selle itself offers 24 beds in cozy rooms and dormitories for overnight stays. For those preferring to stay at lower altitudes, there are various hotels, guesthouses, and apartments available in the nearby areas of Passo San Pellegrino, Val di Fassa (e.g., Moena, Falcade), and Val Monzoni.
What kind of terrain and elevation gain can I expect on trails to Rifugio Passo le Selle?
The terrain around Rifugio Passo le Selle is typical of the Dolomites: rugged, rocky, and often steep. The hut is located at 2,530 meters (approximately 8,300 feet). Depending on your starting point, you can expect significant elevation gain. For example, from Passo San Pellegrino, you'll ascend roughly 500-600 meters to reach the hut. Trails can range from moderate hiking paths to more challenging equipped routes like the Alta Via Bepi Zac.
Is winter hiking or snowshoeing possible to Rifugio Passo le Selle?
Rifugio Passo le Selle is typically open from early June to early October. Outside of this period, the hut is closed, and the trails can be covered in deep snow, making access challenging and potentially dangerous due to avalanche risk. Winter hiking or snowshoeing to the hut is generally not recommended unless you are an experienced mountaineer with appropriate gear and knowledge of winter conditions and avalanche safety.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints near the hut, besides the panoramic views?
Beyond the breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites, a unique landmark near Rifugio Passo le Selle is the small high-altitude museum located within a war tunnel on the Cresta di Costabella. This offers a poignant glimpse into the region's World War I history. The entire Cresta di Costabella itself, with its well-preserved trenches and military emplacements, serves as a historical landmark.
What should I wear when hiking to Rifugio Passo le Selle?
Given the high altitude and variable mountain weather, it's crucial to dress in layers. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer (fleece or down), and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly, and weather can change rapidly. Don't forget a hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Are there any loop trails that include Rifugio Passo le Selle?
Yes, Rifugio Passo le Selle can be incorporated into several loop trails. A popular option involves ascending from Passo San Pellegrino, reaching the hut, and then continuing along sections of the Alta Via Bepi Zac before descending back towards the starting point or exploring other connecting trails. Planning your route with a detailed map or a hiking app is recommended to create a suitable loop for your fitness level.