Refuge Monte Reale
1.5Rifugio Monte Reale
Liguria, Italy
About
Rifugio Monte Reale sits at 1,612m on the watershed between Liguria and Piedmont, serving hikers crossing the western Ligurian Alps. Reach it from Passo del Faiallo (1,151m) in 2.5 hours via marked trails, or from Colle San Gottardo (1,439m) in 1.5 hours. The hut anchors the long-distance Alta Via dei Monti Liguri and connects to routes descending into the Scrivia Valley. Winter snow closes some approaches, but the main trail stays passable most of the year.
The refuge holds 40 beds in mixed dorms and a handful of private rooms. Half-board (dinner, bed, breakfast) is the standard arrangement. The kitchen serves simple mountain food—pasta, polenta, local Ligurian cheese. Water comes from a spring. Electricity is limited; there's no Wi-Fi or charging stations. The hut operates year-round but staffing thins in November and March. Winter visits require advance notice since the keeper may stay in the valley during heavy snow.
Book by phone directly with the hut. Early summer (June–September) fills for weekends; reserve 2–3 weeks ahead if you're going Saturday or Sunday. Weekday slots open up much faster. The hut accepts cash only—no cards. Mobile reception is poor; call during daylight hours or use a landline to confirm arrival time, especially in winter.
The refuge holds 40 beds in mixed dorms and a handful of private rooms. Half-board (dinner, bed, breakfast) is the standard arrangement. The kitchen serves simple mountain food—pasta, polenta, local Ligurian cheese. Water comes from a spring. Electricity is limited; there's no Wi-Fi or charging stations. The hut operates year-round but staffing thins in November and March. Winter visits require advance notice since the keeper may stay in the valley during heavy snow.
Book by phone directly with the hut. Early summer (June–September) fills for weekends; reserve 2–3 weeks ahead if you're going Saturday or Sunday. Weekday slots open up much faster. The hut accepts cash only—no cards. Mobile reception is poor; call during daylight hours or use a landline to confirm arrival time, especially in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (June–September), especially weekends; call ahead to check availability and confirm current conditions. Contact the hut directly by phone for same-day availability outside peak periods.
Open year-round with variable staffing; winter snow can make access difficult, so confirm opening status before visiting November–March. Contact the hut directly to verify staffing and conditions.
Shortest approach: 1.5 hours from Colle San Gottardo (1,439m). Alternative: 2.5 hours from Passo del Faiallo (1,151m). Both routes follow marked trails; the hut sits on the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri at 1,612m.
40 beds in mixed dorms; meals available (confirm menu when booking). Basic facilities; ask about shower availability when you call.
Good for fit hikers and experienced families; the 1.5–2.5 hour approaches are moderate. Not ideal for young children or inexperienced walkers, especially in winter conditions.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 010 9350040
- Website
- www.monte-reale.it