Rifugio Lavarella was the site of "GA. Beer", which marketed itself as the highest brewery in Europe...or as the highest in the Dolomites. (At an elevation of 2050m, the first claim appears to be true; so it's not clear why they don't just stick with that). Sadly, we never got to see the brewery itself, though i was told it was somewhere in the basement. We made a brief visit here after checking-in at Rifugio Fanes, which was a short walk away. It was beautiful sunny afternoon, and we found a table on their fenced front lawn/patio, with views of the valley and the many grazing cows all around. A friendly waitress took our orders right away. I tried the English IPA, which was a nice, lightweight style that had a surprising amount of dankness. The most entertaining moment was watching a young cow figure out a 'sneak path' over the fence...so she could get all the yummy, untouched grass on our side. After several such incursions, she had to be escorted further away by some staff. (I got the feeling this was not the first time for this particular bovine). After a round or two, it was time to head back to our assigned hut for some R&R before dinner. (But not before I bought a t-shirt). read more

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What a gorgeous spot. I would love to love Refugio Laverella but I have not been impressed by the service. It's the highest microbrewery in Europe but it is a challenge to get anyone to serve you (yes they are busy, the place is a madhouse). But I ordered a couple drinks as I am staying here for the night and both were expensive and not full pours. My dormitory room turns out to be a shared room of 10, and the bathroom is on a lower floor. It's a gorgeous location and I relied on a booking agent so I will take what I get. I wish I was more impressed. Maybe I have been in lockdown too long to enjoy the chaos at this location along the Alta Via 1. read more

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