Moderate
About
Rifugio Allavena sits at 1,545m on the slopes above Bordighera in western Liguria. Reach it from Sospel (France, 8km away) via the Passo Mela route in about 3 hours, or from the Italian side via Monesi in roughly 4 hours. The approach is steady hillwalking on mule tracks through Mediterranean scrub and chestnut forest. Most hikers use this refuge as a waypoint on the long GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) or for day trips from the coast.
The refuge sleeps around 50 people in shared rooms and has hot showers. Half-board and full-board are available; meals focus on simple mountain food. There's no electricity from mains—power comes from solar panels and a small generator, so phone charging is limited. The hut opens year-round but runs at reduced capacity November to March. Winter access depends on snow conditions and weather; contact ahead before attempting a winter visit.
Book directly with the managing section, CAI Bordighera, by email or phone. The refuge fills quickly in July and August, especially on weekends. Book at least 4 weeks ahead for summer. Outside peak season you can usually find space with 1–2 weeks' notice. The refuge staff speak French and basic English, but Italian is easiest.
The refuge sleeps around 50 people in shared rooms and has hot showers. Half-board and full-board are available; meals focus on simple mountain food. There's no electricity from mains—power comes from solar panels and a small generator, so phone charging is limited. The hut opens year-round but runs at reduced capacity November to March. Winter access depends on snow conditions and weather; contact ahead before attempting a winter visit.
Book directly with the managing section, CAI Bordighera, by email or phone. The refuge fills quickly in July and August, especially on weekends. Book at least 4 weeks ahead for summer. Outside peak season you can usually find space with 1–2 weeks' notice. The refuge staff speak French and basic English, but Italian is easiest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (June–September); weekends fill faster. Call the refuge directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open May through October, though staffing can be seasonal; call ahead to confirm dates in shoulder months.
From Sospel (France): 3 hours via Passo Mela on steady mule tracks; from Monesi (Italian side): approximately 4 hours through Mediterranean scrub and chestnut forest.
Sleeps around 50 in shared rooms with meals provided; confirm shower availability when booking, as it's basic mountain accommodation.
Yes—the approach is steady hillwalking rather than technical terrain, making it accessible for fit families and beginners comfortable with 3–4 hours of gradual ascent on marked paths.
Location
43.9886, 7.6838
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HutLists Score
3.2
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI Club Alpino Italiano sezione Bordighera
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0184 241155
- Website
- http://www.nuovorifugioallavena.it/
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