Where has the best hut-to-hut hike networks?

The trick is to keep your focus narrow and your backpack light. Most huts in the Alps only open from late June to mid-September, so book several months ahead for peak summer. Choosing an established long-distance trek route is a good bet.

Tyrol’s Berliner Höhenweg is a ravishing, if challenging, eightday romp through the Zillertal and Tux Alps. The high-level trail wows with lofty peaks punching above glacier-carved valleys, gem-coloured lakes and wildlife such as chamois, marmots and eagles. Huts vary from the traditional and simple Gamshütte (dorm £23), with icy showers and fiery schnapps, to the historic, wood-panelled Berliner Hütte (double/dorm £35/£31), with hearty food and arresting mountain views. gamshuette.at berlinerhuette.at naturpark-zillertal.at

With its lofty passes and outrageously beautiful limestone turrets, Italy’s Dolomites offer classic hutto-hut hikes, like the 75-mile, moderately demanding Alta Via 1, where rifugios (high mountain huts) are many. Among the most memorable are Rifugio Lagazuoi (B&B dorm, £65) for its dress-circle views of the Dolomites and unreal sunsets, and Rifugio Cinque Torri (half-board shared room/dorm £74/£65), at the foot of five rock towers. The food here is fantastic: think rich zuppa d’orzo (barley soup) and tagliatelle with porcini. rifugiolagazuoi. com cortinadelicious.it