Walked in full, this stage is far from a gentle introduction to the route! Leaving the delights of Brixen behind, we climb to the hillside village of San Andrea before a long, sustained ascent through the forested slopes of the Plose massif, a famous ski area in winter (providing a
handy cable car option to shorten today's ascent, if desired). A final stretch in more open ground gives spectacular panoramic views, both of the Dolomites but also further afield to the glaciated peaks of Austria and Switzerland. Arrive at the friendly, well-appointed Rifugio Plose for your first night in the mountains.

Courtesy of Alpine Exploratory