Bivouac Baita Palmarusso di Sotto

Bivacco Baita Palmarusso di Sotto sits at 1596m in the Prealps of Lombardy, serving as a base for ridge walks and alpine scrambles in the limestone terrain east of Lake Como. Reach it from Passo di San Gottardo by hiking 1–1.5 hours northeast through mixed forest and pasture. The approach is well-marked and moderately graded, suitable for fit hikers carrying a pack.

This is a basic mountain refuge: a simple shelter with sleeping platforms for around 8–12 people, no running water or electricity. You bring your own sleeping bag and pad. There's a wood stove for warmth in cooler months. No meals are served here. The bivouac is open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and route-finding skill. Summer and autumn are the main seasons for use.

Book directly with the managing body (usually CAI or local operators)—contact details are often posted on rifugi.net or cai.it. This is a bare-bones refuge for self-sufficient hikers and mountaineers, not a staffed hut, so expect to arrive early in the day and carry everything you need. Popular in July–August for ridge traverses and alpine scrambling; mid-week visits in June or September see lighter crowds.