DanB232
Google
Our group stayed at Refugio Fanes on the second night of our trek on the AV1 in the Dolomites. It was another stunning location, but we were surprised at the crowds when we arrived - It seemed this was a popular lunchtime destination for daytrippers and mountain bikers (many of the latter on "cheater-bikes," as I call them). There was no room inside or on the deck, so we sat outside on a stone ledge to wait for check-in (after procuring a beverage at the bar). Check-in itself was a zoo, especially since the staff started later than promised. (Staff demeanor was best described as 'tepid')||Once the crowds departed, our visit here improved immensely. We were able to grab a snack on the restaurant deck; then we walked 10 min to see Rifugio Lavarella nearby.||Rifugio Fanes was very clean and attractive. Four of our group had their own, private bunk room. The other three (myself included) shared a ten-bed bunk room with others. (Two were a pair of German women who seemed annoyed about Every.Single.Thing. It didn't take long for this became a source of mirth to the rest of us.)||After the full menu at the previous rifugio, the dinner menu at Fanes felt very limited. The main course options were: beef or vegetarian. (I chose the latter). But the food quality was good. And the breakfast spread the next morning was on par with other rifugios we visited on our trek.||Rifugio Summary:|- Setting: In a lovely, alpine valley shared with two other rifugios; but beware of midday crowds on nice days|- Rooms/dorms: Roomy, clean|- Food: Good despite small menu|- Potable water: Yes|- Wi-fi: strong
