Bivacco Mombracco

Bivacco Mombracco sits at 1305m on the western flank of Monte Mombracco in the Maritimes, just inside Italy near the French border. Reach it from Limone Piemonte (1,010m) via the Val Gesso approach, a steep 3–4 hour hike gaining 300m elevation. The trail is well-marked but relentless. In winter, snow can make the approach technically demanding. From the bivacco, you gain access to ridgeline traverses across the Maritimes and straightforward scrambles to Mombracco's 2,105m summit.
The bivacco is unmanned and free. It's a small stone shelter with room for 4–6 people on basic benches. Bring everything: sleeping bag, mat, food, water. There's no water source at the shelter; collect it lower on the approach. The structure is solid but exposed to wind—expect it to be cold and occasionally wet. The hut operates year-round, though snow, ice and avalanche risk close the approach from December to March most seasons. Summer crowds are light compared to major huts on the main Alpine spine.
This is a climber's refuge, not a hiking hut. Use it as a base for technical ridge work or fast ascents of Mombracco and neighboring peaks. Check conditions locally in Limone Piemonte before heading up. Bring a headtorch and take the approach seriously; there's no rescue service if you turn back in darkness.