Dan B.
Yelp
Rifugio Col Gallina was the third overnight stop on our southward trek of the AV1 in the Dolomites. We reached it on our toughest day so far, after climbing through the Forcella del Lago pass, followed by the climb to the top of Lagazuoi mountain. Thankfully there was a cable car down the steep cliffs to Falzarego Pass, where the rifugio was situated.
As it would turn out, Col Gallina was my least favorite hut on our entire trek. Why? It started with the gruff, unfriendly welcome. It continued with the overall setting, which was not ideal - being on a main road in this busy, popular valley. Despite their large deck, there was zero shelter offered from the hot sun. (We were able to find one shady niche in later hours). To the east we had view of a large parking area that was functioning as a temporary RV park - listening closely, we could hear the murmur of portable generators. (I should confess that we had been spoiled by previous rifugios in much more pastoral settings.) On the plus side, we could turn our heads and view the gorgeous plateaus and peaks to the south (where we were headed the next day).
Despite these complaints, I can't really give Col Gallina a negative rating, for a few reasons: Our room was actually very nice; the food was pretty good; and the staff became friendlier over time.
Rifugio Summary:
- Setting: Utilitarian building in a busy, touristy area.
- Rooms/dorms: Very nice
- Food: Good
- Potable water: Yes
- Wi-fi: strong (plus cell service)