Moderate
About
Rifugio CAI Pian Cavallone sits at 1530m on the slopes above Maccagno in the Verbano region of Lombardy. Reach it on foot from Maccagno village in 2.5–3 hours, climbing through woodland. The hut serves as a base for day hikes around Pian Cavallone meadow and access to higher peaks in the area.
The refuge accommodates 36 people in mixed dormitory rooms. Meals are available, including packed lunches for hikers heading out. Water and basic facilities are reliable. The hut operates year-round, though access can be difficult in winter snow. There is no electricity or heating beyond what wood stoves provide, so expect simple, functional conditions. This is a working hut, not a comfortable tourist stop.
Book directly with CAI Verbano by email or phone. Summer weekends and July-August fill quickly—contact 2–3 months ahead if you need beds in peak season. Off-season (October–May) is quieter but confirm opening before you travel. Phone ahead anyway to confirm meal availability and current conditions, especially after heavy rain or snow.
The refuge accommodates 36 people in mixed dormitory rooms. Meals are available, including packed lunches for hikers heading out. Water and basic facilities are reliable. The hut operates year-round, though access can be difficult in winter snow. There is no electricity or heating beyond what wood stoves provide, so expect simple, functional conditions. This is a working hut, not a comfortable tourist stop.
Book directly with CAI Verbano by email or phone. Summer weekends and July-August fill quickly—contact 2–3 months ahead if you need beds in peak season. Off-season (October–May) is quieter but confirm opening before you travel. Phone ahead anyway to confirm meal availability and current conditions, especially after heavy rain or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends and peak season (July–August); weekdays outside summer need less advance notice. Call the hut directly or use rifugio.net or cai.it for reservations.
The hut operates year-round, though staffing and services are most reliable May through October; confirm opening dates in winter before visiting.
Hike from Maccagno village in 2.5–3 hours, gaining elevation through woodland to reach the hut at 1530m.
The hut provides 36 beds in mixed dormitories, hot meals, packed lunches for day hikes, and reliable water and basic sanitation facilities.
Yes—the 2.5–3 hour approach from Maccagno is moderate and well-established, making it good for hikers new to Alpine hut stays; it's also suitable for families wanting a base for easier day walks around Pian Cavallone meadow.
Location
46.0133, 8.5393
HutLists Score
3.8
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI CAI Verbano
- Total
- 36
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0323 407482; +39 334 989 4081
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