Table Of Contents
- Rifugio Tartaglione (Sissone Valley, Sondrio)
- Cassinelli hut (Pizzo della Presolana, Bergamo).
- Rifugio Riva (Alpe Piattedo, Lecco).
- Dalco Alpine Shelter (Montemezzo, Como).
- Rifugio Quinto Alpini (Ortles-Cevedale)
- Rifugio Mello (Val di Mello)
- Rifugio Laghi Gemelli (Upper Brembana Valley).
- Rifugio Valmalza (Val Camonica)
- Rifugio Brioschi (Summit of the Northern Grigna).
- Carlo Porta Refuge (Grigne)
Tired of the deafening chaos and suffocating smog of Milan? A mountain retreat could be the breath of fresh air you desperately need to unplug and recharge your batteries! Get ready to say goodbye to the urban dreariness and welcome breathtaking views, fresh air and a rejuvenating experience that will bring you back to the city with an extra edge.
Mountain lodges are accommodations located at high altitudes, designed to provide shelter, refreshment and a warm bed for those who venture out on alpine trails. But don’t think of refuges as simply “highland hostels”-they are true outposts of mountain culture, guardians of centuries-old traditions and gateways to incredible landscapes.
Where can you find refuges in Lombardy?
Lombardy, with its varied territory, offers a rich network of refuges distributed throughout the Alps and pre-Alps. You will find them scattered like precious pearls:
- In the Orobian Alps, between the provinces of Bergamo, Sondrio and Lecco.
- In the Adamello-Presanella massif, in the upper Camonica Valley.
- On the Bergamasque and Brescian Pre-Alps.
- In the Grigne group, overlooking Lake Como.
- In Valtellina and Valchiavenna, at the foot of the majestic 4000 meters.
- In the Stelvio National Park, among glaciers and remote valleys.
How many refuges are there in Lombardy in 2024?
Although an exact number updated to 2024 is not available, we can give you an idea of the wealth of options available to you. Lombardy boasts one of the most extensive networks of refuges in Italy, with hundreds of facilities scattered throughout the mountains.
Just to give you an idea, the official list of Lombardy refuges includes more than 30 refuges in the province of Bergamo, more than 40 refuges in the province of Brescia, about 20 between Como and Varese, more than 30 in the province of Lecco, and more than 60 refuges in the province of Sondrio.
These numbers, which total more than 180 refuges, do not include the many mountain huts, chalets and smaller structures that further enrich the range of high-altitude hospitality on offer.
Lombard refuges are not all the same: they range from the more rustic and traditional, where essentiality is part of the experience, to more modern and comfortable facilities, some of which even offer wellness services at altitude!
Whether you’re looking for a Spartan adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway with a view of the peaks, you’re sure to find the refuge that’s right for you.
Rifugio Tartaglione (Sissone Valley, Sondrio)
Altitude: 1,800 m.
Difficulty: Easy.
Highlight: Breathtaking views of Mount Disgrazia.
Waking up with the sound of a stream in the background and the imposing Mount Disgrazia bidding you good morning: at Rifugio Tartaglione, this dream comes true! Reachable by a walk of about an hour from Chiareggio, this Valmalenco gem will captivate you with its fairy-tale atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine. Don’t miss the handmade tagliatelle with venison ragout and the legendary afternoon pancakes.
In summer, stop by the flower-filled plateau along the trail for a fabulous picnic!
Address: Locality Forbicina, 23023, 23023 Chiesa in Valmalenco SO
Cassinelli hut (Pizzo della Presolana, Bergamo).
Altitude: 1568 m.
Difficulty: Medium.
Highlight: Bergamo cuisine with innovative twists.
Lovers of Orobica cuisine, this is your paradise! Baita Cassinelli, nestled in the Alta Val Seriana, is the perfect starting point for exploring the majestic Pizzo della Presolana. After an hour’s walk, you will be rewarded with dishes that blend tradition and innovation. Try fusilli alla boscaiola or Guinness stew for an unexpected explosion of flavors. And if you want to burn a few calories, the Pagan Cave awaits an hour and a half walk away.
Address: Malga Cassinelli, 24020 Castione della Presolana BG
Rifugio Riva (Alpe Piattedo, Lecco).
Altitude: 1020 m.
Difficulty: Easy.
Highlight: Breathtaking views of the Valsassina.
Looking for a relaxing hike an hour from Milan? Rifugio Riva is the answer! Starting from Baiedo, in an hour and a half you will find yourself immersed in the lush meadows of the Piani di Nava, with spectacular views of the Grigna. Here you can enjoy knockout pizzoccheri and a shank with polenta that will make you forget all your troubles.
If you have energy to spare, continue on to the Church of San Calimero for an extra adventure. It is among the mountain refuges in Lombardy that are open year-round.
Address: Alle piattedo, 23819 Primaluna LC
Dalco Alpine Shelter (Montemezzo, Como).
Altitude: 1050 m.
Difficulty: Easy.
Highlight: Home cooking and breathtaking views of Lake Como.
Perched on the heights of Montemezzo, Rifugio Alpino Dalco offers spectacular views of Lake Como that will leave you breathless. Conveniently accessible by car, it is ideal for those seeking a mountain experience without too much effort. Dalco’s cuisine is a triumph of authentic flavors: from homemade pizzoccheri to chestnut-flour tagliatelle, each dish is a journey into the flavors of tradition. Don’t miss the game, often the star of the menu, accompanied by polenta that is nothing short of perfect. And for dessert lovers, the homemade cakes are an irresistible temptation. The family atmosphere and warm welcome of the owners, Gabriella and Gastone, will make you feel immediately at home.
Address: Via Dalco, 23, 22010 Montemezzo CO
Rifugio Quinto Alpini (Ortles-Cevedale)
Altitude: 2877 m.
Difficulty: Medium.
Highlight: Perfect base for epic climbs for Adrenaline addicts!
Rifugio Quinto Alpini is the gateway to mountaineers’ paradise, with Mount Zebrù and Punta Thurweiser within reach of… ice axe! But fear not, even the less reckless will find something to eat (literally) with typical Valtellina dishes served with views of the Bernina range. Rooms with private bathrooms for unexpected comfort at high altitude!
Address: Localita’ Val Zebru, 23030 Valfurva SO
Rifugio Mello (Val di Mello)
Altitude: 1050 m.
Difficulty: Easy.
Highlight: Paradise for climbers and bouldering enthusiasts.
Val di Mello is Italy’s Yosemite, and Rifugio Mello is its beating heart. Reachable by a leisurely walk, it is the ideal starting point for exploring the Nature Reserve. After a day of climbing or simple hiking, pizzoccheri and barbecued meats will recharge you for new adventures. The refuge’s garden is the perfect place for an aperitif overlooking the granite walls that have made Italian climbing history.
Address: Val di mello, 500, 23010 Val Masino SO
Rifugio Laghi Gemelli (Upper Brembana Valley).
Altitude: 1968 m.
Difficulty: Medium.
Highlight: Paradise for photography lovers.
Get your cameras ready, because the Laghi Gemelli are a sight worth capturing! The refuge, reachable only on foot, will reward you for your effort with postcard views and cuisine that is an ode to the flavors of Bergamo. From casoncelli to strachitunt, every bite is a journey into the flavors of tradition. Don’t forget to try the game stew, perfect after a day of hiking!
Address: Loc. Laghi Gemelli, 24010 Branzi BG
Rifugio Valmalza (Val Camonica)
Altitude: 2000 m.
Difficulty: Medium.
Highlight: Intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Small but big-hearted, Rifugio Valmalza is the refuge you don’t expect. Nestled among the peaks of Val Camonica, it offers an authentic experience of mountain living. The home cooking and family atmosphere will make you feel at home, but with a much better view! Perfect for those seeking an intimate experience away from mass tourism.
Address: Location, Valle Delle Messi, 25056 Ponte di Legno BS
Rifugio Brioschi (Summit of the Northern Grigna).
Altitude: 2410 m.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Highlight: The highest refuge in Lombardy with breathtaking views.
Summit lovers, get ready to touch the sky with one finger! Rifugio Brioschi, perched on the summit of the Northern Grigna (also known as Grignone), is the highest refuge in Lombardy and will give you an unforgettable experience. Reachable by a challenging trek of about 3-4 hours from the Piani dei Resinelli, this eagle’s nest will reward you with a 360-degree view ranging from Monte Rosa to Monviso, passing Lake Como and the Lombardy plain. The recently renovated structure is a masterpiece of alpine engineering. Despite its extreme location, it offers surprising comfort with cozy rooms and a common room where you can warm up over a steaming cup of tea.
Rifugio Brioschi is also open on weekends in winter (but only for experts with proper equipment).
Address: Vetta Grigna Settentrionale, 23826 Pasturo LC
Carlo Porta Refuge (Grigne)
Altitude: 1300 m.
Difficulty: Easy.
Highlight: Ideal for families and beginners.
Last but not least, Rifugio Pian dei Resinelli is the gateway to the world of the Grigne. Easily accessible even by car, it is the perfect starting point for exploring one of the most iconic mountain groups in Lombardy. With trails suitable for everyone and spectacular views of Lake Como, it is ideal for those who want to approach the world of trekking without overdoing it. Traditional cuisine and ample outdoor space make it perfect for an outing with the whole family.
Address: Via Carlo Porta, 4, 23821 Pian dei Resinelli LC