One of my favorite meals in Cortina and that's saying something…read more Excellent food and stunning views, especially for the price. Pastas are way better than they need to be. With a large group we could easily have ordered full sized pastas for a few Euros more you can build your own 2-3 selection sampler. The venison and bottarga were exceptional. Quick tip: the venison sings with a touch of salt so don't be afraid to personalize. It's worth saying again. The views cannot be beat.

Our group stayed at Refugio Averau on the fourth night of our trek on the AV1 in the Dolomites. It…read morewas in a beautiful location - in a high pass between rocky plateaus. But it was also VERY popular on the day we arrived (a friday in August). We noted there was a chair lift ferrying visitors up from the main road below. Hikers and mountain bikers were passing through in multiple directions. We felt lucky to snag an outdoor table - so we could enjoy our post-hike beer and fries - which had become a regular tradition by this point. (The fries were excellent). Despite the crowds, our check-in was speedy. Our group's shared bunk room was "cozy," but had jackpot views. Then we managed to get in line early for the laundry room in their basement. Cuz it was time. Dinner was a low point, at least for me. I had been noticing venison on the menus of previous rifugios and had finally decided to act - I ordered the venison with potatoes. Unfortunately it was AWFUL - It should have been called "a bowl of potatoes with gamey gristle on top". It would be my worst meal in Italy. (A star off for that). And yes - I've had good venison before. Averau was the first rifugio we visited on our trek with non-potable tap water; but thankfully all the sinks were clearly labeled. Plus we had filtering gear with us, so it was not a big issue. (But it did seem an odd contrast to the touristy vibe; they must sell a lot of bottled water). Rifugio Summary: - Setting: In a high pass with expansive view; very popular on a summer day - Rooms/dorms: Nice; Clean. On the smaller side - Food: Terrible dinner (for me); on-par breakfast spread - Free Potable water: No! - Wi-fi: Passable