RIFUGIO PASSO VALLES

At 2,033 metres above sea level, right on the mountain pass connecting Trentino and Veneto, Capanna Passo Valles has welcomed travellers, hikers and mountain lovers for generations. The Cemin family's story at Passo Valles began in 1933, when Enrico Cemin opened the first mountain hut. Since then, across several generations, hospitality and a passion for good food have become an essential part of this special place.

Today, the hut is still deeply family-run. Walking through its doors feels a little like being welcomed into someone's home: there is Angelo, greeting guests with his warmth, friendliness and knowledge of the mountains, and Fabio, a sommelier and passionate wine enthusiast who knows how to find the perfect pairing for the hut's cuisine. Together, they continue a tradition of hospitality built over almost a century of life in the mountains.

At the table, the territory takes centre stage. The kitchen celebrates traditional Alpine cuisine, with dishes featuring cheese, mushrooms and local game, prepared with the kind of simplicity that allows the quality of the ingredients to shine. After the meal come the homemade desserts and Angelo's special herb-infused grappas, made with mountain herbs gathered during the summer: a small ritual filled with the aromas of the mountains.

The surroundings tell the story too. Wooden interiors, traditional furnishings and a warm atmosphere provide the setting for a cuisine that changes with the seasons. In summer, guests can enjoy the sheltered terrace and the mountain views, while inside there are cosy corners where visitors can stop for a snack, a piece of homemade cake or a hot chocolate when the mountain air turns crisp.

The hut is also an ideal starting point for experiencing the mountains, with hiking and mountain-bike routes leading into the spectacular landscapes around Paneveggio – Pale di San Martino Nature Park.

And for those who want to stay longer, Capanna Passo Valles also offers overnight accommodation, with rooms and options for hikers and groups. A chance to experience the Passo Valles after the day has faded and the mountains become wonderfully quiet.

For almost a century, the Cemin family has cared for this corner of the mountains. People come for a traditional dish, a carefully chosen glass of wine, a hike or a night at altitude. But above all, they come to feel welcome.