Moderate
About
Rifugio Branchino sits at 1,796m on the Bergamasc Alps' southern ridge, above the Val Brembana. The hut is reached from Carona or San Pellegrino Terme—both road-accessible valleys. From Carona the walk takes 2.5 hours via the Sentiero dei Laghi trail. The route climbs steadily through beech and conifer forest before opening onto the ridgeline. From San Pellegrino Terme (1,300m) allow 3–3.5 hours; this approach is steeper but more direct.
The rifugio offers 40 beds across simple shared rooms. Half-board or full-board meals are available—the kitchen serves regional Lombard mountain food. Hot water, heating in cooler months, and a small bar are standard. The hut operates year-round but gets minimal traffic November through March; confirm opening dates before winter visits. Mobile phone reception is present.
Contact the rifugio directly by phone to book. Summer weekends (July–August) fill quickly; reserve 2–3 weeks ahead. Weekday stays need less advance notice. The hut makes a solid base for ridge walks toward Pizzo della Presolana or day trips into the surrounding valley system. It's also on the longer Orobie Alta route for multi-day trekkers.
The rifugio offers 40 beds across simple shared rooms. Half-board or full-board meals are available—the kitchen serves regional Lombard mountain food. Hot water, heating in cooler months, and a small bar are standard. The hut operates year-round but gets minimal traffic November through March; confirm opening dates before winter visits. Mobile phone reception is present.
Contact the rifugio directly by phone to book. Summer weekends (July–August) fill quickly; reserve 2–3 weeks ahead. Weekday stays need less advance notice. The hut makes a solid base for ridge walks toward Pizzo della Presolana or day trips into the surrounding valley system. It's also on the longer Orobie Alta route for multi-day trekkers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends and July–August; weekday visits in shoulder season often have space same-week. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open June through September, weather-dependent; confirm opening dates by phone before planning a visit, as mountain huts close early if conditions deteriorate.
From Carona (road-accessible): 2.5 hours via Sentiero dei Laghi through forest to ridge. From San Pellegrino Terme (1,300m): 3–3.5 hours, steeper and more direct.
40 beds in shared rooms, meals available (check menu with the hut); basic Alpine hut setup—bring a towel and expect simple bathroom facilities.
Yes for fit families and experienced day-hikers; the 2.5–3.5 hour approaches are steady but not technical, though 1,796m elevation and exposed ridge require hill fitness and good weather.
Location
45.9513, 9.8041
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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.
HutLists Score
4.3
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 334 1178129
- Website
- http://rifugiobranchino.blogspot.it/
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