Demanding
About
Rifugio Carlo Emilio sits at 2,153m in the Como Alps of Lombardy, serving hikers and climbers approaching the Grigna massif. Reach it from Lecco via the Val d'Esino, hiking uphill for 3–4 hours through mixed terrain. The route follows established mountain paths and is feasible year-round in settled weather, though snow complicates access December to April.
The rifugio holds 16 beds across simple rooms. Meals are available on request: expect hearty Alpine fare rather than restaurant service. Drinking water runs reliably. Flush toilets function year-round. The hut operates as a base for daywalks to nearby peaks and limestone climbing. It closes during the worst winter months but reopens for spring through autumn use.
Contact CAI di Como directly by phone to check current opening dates and book beds. July and August fill quickly—call at least 4 weeks ahead. Shoulder seasons (May–June, September) offer better availability and more reliable weather for limestone scrambling.
The rifugio holds 16 beds across simple rooms. Meals are available on request: expect hearty Alpine fare rather than restaurant service. Drinking water runs reliably. Flush toilets function year-round. The hut operates as a base for daywalks to nearby peaks and limestone climbing. It closes during the worst winter months but reopens for spring through autumn use.
Contact CAI di Como directly by phone to check current opening dates and book beds. July and August fill quickly—call at least 4 weeks ahead. Shoulder seasons (May–June, September) offer better availability and more reliable weather for limestone scrambling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead, especially weekends and July–August; call ahead on the phone contact to confirm availability and meal options, as this is a small 16-bed hut.
Open year-round in settled weather, but staffing and access are most reliable May to October; winter access (December–April) is risky due to snow, so confirm conditions before visiting.
Start from Lecco, head into Val d'Esino, and follow established mountain paths uphill for 3–4 hours; the route is mixed terrain and feasible year-round in good conditions.
16 simple beds in shared rooms; meals available on request featuring hearty Alpine fare rather than restaurant-style service.
Better suited to experienced hikers and mountaineers; the 3–4 hour approach and high elevation (2,153m) make it challenging for casual walkers or young children.
Location
46.3634, 9.3069
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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
3.9
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI CAI di Como
- Total
- 16
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Flush toilets
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0343 34540
- Website
- https://rifugi.cai.it/shelters/921600603
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
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