About
Rifugio San Michele sits at 1,680m in the Ligurian Alps, on the ridge between the Arroscia and Tanaro valleys. Reach it in 2.5 hours from Passo Godone (1,268m) via the Sentiero CAI 1; this is the main access point if you're coming from the coast side. From the inland side, approach from Ponte di Nava (903m) in roughly 4 hours. The hut serves as a junction point for longer ridge walks through the southern Maritime Alps—expect steep, exposed sections on rocky terrain.
The rifugio runs 30 beds across several rooms and a small dorm. The kitchen serves dinner and packed lunches; bring cash for payment. Water comes from a mountain spring. The hut operates year-round but confirm before visiting in winter, as snow can make the access trails unmanageable and staffing is minimal. Summer weekends draw hikers doing day walks from the coast, so the hut gets moderately busy July through September.
Book directly with the manager on their phone line or contact CAI Liguria for current opening dates and conditions. July and August require booking 2–3 weeks ahead on weekends. Winter visits depend entirely on snow cover and staffing—call first. The hut is remote enough that supply deliveries are infrequent, so don't expect fresh provisions beyond what's listed on the menu.
The rifugio runs 30 beds across several rooms and a small dorm. The kitchen serves dinner and packed lunches; bring cash for payment. Water comes from a mountain spring. The hut operates year-round but confirm before visiting in winter, as snow can make the access trails unmanageable and staffing is minimal. Summer weekends draw hikers doing day walks from the coast, so the hut gets moderately busy July through September.
Book directly with the manager on their phone line or contact CAI Liguria for current opening dates and conditions. July and August require booking 2–3 weeks ahead on weekends. Winter visits depend entirely on snow cover and staffing—call first. The hut is remote enough that supply deliveries are infrequent, so don't expect fresh provisions beyond what's listed on the menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during summer weekends; weekdays are more flexible. Contact via rifugio.net or check CAI listings for direct contact details.
Staffed during summer months (typically June–September); exact dates vary by year, so confirm before planning.
From Passo Godone (1,268m) via CAI Sentiero 1: 2.5 hours; from Ponte di Nava (903m) inland: 4 hours. Both routes have steep, rocky terrain with exposed sections.
30 beds with meals provided; check beforehand for shower availability, as mountain huts in Liguria often have limited hot water.
Not ideal for inexperienced hikers—the approach routes are steep and rocky with exposed sections; better suited to fit hikers comfortable with Alpine terrain and ridge walking.
Location
44.2460, 7.6739
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://www.rifugiosanmichele.com/
Activities
Featured In
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