Refuge Alpino Gruppo di Polaveno

4.9

Rifugio Alpino Gruppo di Polaveno

968m Lombardy, Italy Write a review
Easy

About

Rifugio Alpino Gruppo di Polaveno sits at 968m in the Brescia pre-Alps, within the Gruppo di Polaveno massif. Access the hut via the hamlet of Lodrino (near Toscolano-Maderno on Lake Garda's western shore). The approach takes 2–2.5 hours on marked trails through beech and conifer forest. Summer access is straightforward; winter snow closes higher routes but doesn't necessarily block the hut entirely—check conditions before planning a cold-season visit. The setting is working woodland rather than high peaks, making this a good base for day hikes on less-crowded terrain.

The rifugio operates as a simple mountain lodge with capacity for around 40 guests. Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included). Kitchen facilities are basic but functional. The hut sits roughly 40km north of Lake Garda, so it's accessible year-round from the lowlands if you're willing to climb. Managed by the Gruppo di Polaveno hiking association, it attracts locals and regional hikers more than international crowds.

Book direct contact with the rifugio by phone or email well ahead during July and August. The hut closes for extended periods in winter—confirm opening dates before travel. Weekends fill quickly in summer, but weekday stays are usually available with shorter notice. This is a solid base for forest walking, not a destination hut for technical mountaineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2–3 weeks ahead during summer weekends; weekdays are more flexible. Contact the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability and rates.
Open April through October with full staffing; winter weekends only (check ahead). Snow at 968m may close access on higher routes, so verify conditions before visiting December–March.
Start from the hamlet of Lodrino (near Toscolano-Maderno on Lake Garda's west shore) via marked trails through beech and conifer forest; 2–2.5 hours on foot.
Serves hot meals and packed lunches; bed and half-board packages are standard. Expect basic dorm-style sleeping arrangements typical of working-woodland huts in this region.
Yes—the 2–2.5 hour approach is moderate and well-marked, making it accessible for fit families and newer hikers. It's not a high-altitude destination, so acclimatization is no issue.

Location

45.6763, 10.1346
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Don't forget to book

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.

We can't watch this hut's availability — it books direct. Give us your arrival date and we'll email you when it's time to get in touch, with the hut's phone and email.

Independent of the hut and its alpine club. We never book or hold beds — the reminder just tells you when to get in touch, with the hut's own contact details.

HutLists Score

4.9
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Quick Facts

Managing club
CAI
Season
May-Sep

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