Rifugios in Dolomites/LP Walking in Italy trek

I haven't stayed in those particular ones but in several in other areas of northern Italy. You need a sleeping sheet, the silk ones are great. The lodges provide the duvets to go over your sleeping sheet. You cannot reserve ahead unless you are a large group. We became member os the Alpine Club and received discounted food and sleeping rates. Some range from basic, cold showers, dorm rooms to nice hotels in others. Veg food will be available and some have smaller menus to huge menus. Beer, wine etc readily available. It is a great experience.

Contrary to Sharonna's advice, reserving ahead at rifugios would not only be advisable, but essential (particularly in high season, say August, but also July can be quite hectic). Trouble is, there is no uniform reservation policy, also because some huts are privately owned, while others (most) belong to various chapters of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) or Suedtiroler Alpverein (the German speaking mountaineerring club based in Bolzano, Italy). Accordingly, also the level of accomodation differs. Some rifugis will in fact offer even private bedrooms (although rarely with en-suite facilities) with duvets, etc., but more often that not you will have to accept something more spartan, such as a bunk in a large room with 40+ people! As to vegetarian food, you can probably survive (unless you are strictly vegan) on polenta, eggs, cheese and beer (but fresh vegs and fruit are difficult to find at those huts where provisions are hauled up by helicopter or cable car). I must admit I haven't taken a look at the LP guidebook recently, but I know the area pretty well. If you'd like to e-mail me, I'll try to give you some more hints...

Stephen,

I am considering the LP walk in the Northern Dolomites for Sept '06. Would welcome any advice / opinions you have to share on the route.