About
Rifugio La Porta del Sole sits at 1,587m in the Ligurian Apennines, on the watershed ridge between the Arroscia and Tanaro valleys. Access from the north starts at Ponte di Nava (904m) via the CAI trail toward Poggio Balestrino; the route takes 3.5 hours uphill. From the south, hikers reach it in 2.5 hours from Mendatica (590m). The hut lies on the GEA long-distance trail and makes a logical stop for anyone crossing the spine of Liguria.
The rifugio offers 60 beds across shared dormitories and a handful of private rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen serves simple mountain food and packed lunches for onward hikes. Water comes from a spring near the building. The hut operates year-round but staff presence is reduced from November to March; contact ahead outside summer. Mobile signal is patchy; bring a paper map.
Book direct by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for Saturdays and weekends in June, July, and September. August is busy with families. The hut is managed independently and does not use rifugi.net or CAI systems. Winter access depends on snow conditions and staff availability—confirm before the trip. The nearest resupply is Mendatica, 1 hour down the trail.
The rifugio offers 60 beds across shared dormitories and a handful of private rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen serves simple mountain food and packed lunches for onward hikes. Water comes from a spring near the building. The hut operates year-round but staff presence is reduced from November to March; contact ahead outside summer. Mobile signal is patchy; bring a paper map.
Book direct by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for Saturdays and weekends in June, July, and September. August is busy with families. The hut is managed independently and does not use rifugi.net or CAI systems. Winter access depends on snow conditions and staff availability—confirm before the trip. The nearest resupply is Mendatica, 1 hour down the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends and summer, earlier for July-August. Contact the rifugio directly by phone or check rifugio.net and cai.it for availability and reservations.
Most Ligurian rifugi operate year-round or March-November; confirm current opening dates directly with the hut, as staffing varies seasonally.
From the north: 3.5 hours uphill from Ponte di Nava (904m) via CAI trail to Poggio Balestrino. From the south: 2.5 hours from Mendatica (590m). The rifugio sits at 1,587m on the watershed ridge.
The hut has 60 beds in shared dormitories with meals available (half-board and full-board typical). Confirm shower availability and meal options when you book.
Yes—the approach from Mendatica is moderate at 2.5 hours and the hut lies on the GEA trail, making it accessible for fit walkers. Families should confirm bed configurations and whether children's portions are available.
Location
44.1288, 7.7273
HutLists Score
2.9
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Website
- https://locandaupega.com/rifugio/
Activities
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