Demanding
About
Rifugio Manolino sits at 1638m on the ridge between the Bormida and Tanaro valleys in the Ligurian Alps. Reach it from Garessio in 3.5 hours via the Piano della Cipolla, or from Ponte di Nava in 4 hours. Both routes follow well-marked CAI trails through beech forest and open pasture. The hut serves as a base for ridge walking toward Pizzo d'Ormea and scrambling on the surrounding limestone peaks.
The hut has 50 beds spread across shared dormitories. Meals are hearty mountain cooking—expect pasta, polenta, and local meat dishes. The kitchen provides basic supplies if you're self-catering. Water comes from the spring outside. There's no shower, but washing facilities exist. The rifugio operates year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions; confirm availability before heading up from November to March.
Book directly through the CAI Ceva section, or check rifugio.net. July and August fill quickly—book 4-6 weeks ahead. Staff speak Italian primarily, though English is possible. The hut closes occasionally for maintenance; ring ahead if you're arriving off-season. Half-board rates are standard. Arrive by early afternoon if you want hot dinner.
The hut has 50 beds spread across shared dormitories. Meals are hearty mountain cooking—expect pasta, polenta, and local meat dishes. The kitchen provides basic supplies if you're self-catering. Water comes from the spring outside. There's no shower, but washing facilities exist. The rifugio operates year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions; confirm availability before heading up from November to March.
Book directly through the CAI Ceva section, or check rifugio.net. July and August fill quickly—book 4-6 weeks ahead. Staff speak Italian primarily, though English is possible. The hut closes occasionally for maintenance; ring ahead if you're arriving off-season. Half-board rates are standard. Arrive by early afternoon if you want hot dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends, especially July-August; weekdays are more flexible. Contact the hut directly or check rifugio.net and cai.it for current availability.
Most Ligurian rifugi operate June through September; confirm exact dates with the hut as staffing varies by season. Winter access is unreliable due to snow and weather exposure.
From Garessio: 3.5 hours via Piano della Cipolla; from Ponte di Nava: 4 hours—both follow marked CAI trails through beech forest and open ridge. The demanding grade means steep sections and scrambling in places.
50 beds in shared dormitories; hearty mountain cooking at dinner and breakfast. Confirm water, shower, and toilet facilities when booking, as these vary at smaller Ligurian rifugi.
No—the 'demanding' access grade, ridge exposure, and limestone scrambling make it for experienced hikers and mountaineers only. Not suitable for young children or those uncomfortable with exposure.
Location
44.1979, 7.8995
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.6
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI Club Alpino Italiano sezione di Ceva
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
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