Challenging and scenic hike leading from Valagola to the welcoming Rifugio XII Apostoli, across scree slopes, equipped sections, and stunning views of the Brenta Dolomites and the Adamello.
The Val di Nardis lies in the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, at the foot of the Pratofiorito and D’Agola glaciers, and is home to the welcoming Rifugio XII Apostoli.
The itinerary begins in Sant’Antonio di Mavignola, crosses the Val Brenta by car, and sets off from Valagola. The first stretch unfolds through the forest, along a dirt road and gentle paths that lead to the enchanting Lake Valagola and the green plateau of Lago Asciutto (Nardis plain).
From here, the scenery changes dramatically: a lunar-like landscape where the trail becomes more demanding, with scree terrain and the equipped passages of the “Scala Santa” leading steeply up to the Rifugio XII Apostoli.
Affectionately called “I Dodici”, the refuge stands at 2,489 m on a rocky plateau overlooking the valley, offering breathtaking views of the Brenta Dolomites, the Adamello, and the Presanella massif. Its name recalls the surrounding rock formations, which resemble figures gathered in prayer around the small chapel carved into the stone.
Continue your journey along La Via delle Valli: choose other valleys to explore among the 50 suggested ones! Discover them all and create your credential to record your stages here: www.campigliodolomiti.it/laviadellevalli
THE NEAREST VALLEYS:
- Valagola: access to Val di Nardis is via Valagola, starting from Sant’Antonio di Mavignola and crossing the Val Brenta.
