Refuge Malpensata
2.0Rifugio Malpensata
1,348m
Lombardy, Italy
About
Rifugio Malpensata sits at 1,348m in the Prealps north of Lecco, Lombardy. Most hikers approach from Piani dei Resinelli, a 45-minute ascent via marked trails through beech forest. The hut is also reachable from Ballabio (1.5 hours) or from the Val d'Esino side. The location makes it a solid basecamp for day hikes across the Resegone group and loops linking the nearby rifugios. The terrain is mostly managed woodland—steep sections but well-maintained paths.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps around 40 guests in mixed and private rooms. The kitchen serves hearty mountain food: expect polenta, casoeula, and local cheeses. Half-board is standard. The bar does strong coffee. Showers and toilets are adequate; the hut is not luxurious but functional. Staff are straightforward and welcoming. The hut sits on a working hiking route, so it absorbs day visitors as well as overnight guests.
Book directly with the rifugio by phone. Weekends year-round fill quickly, particularly May through October. July and August require booking 4-6 weeks ahead. Winter months (December–February) can be slower; confirm opening before traveling. The hut manages its own bookings rather than using CAI or other club systems, so direct contact is essential.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps around 40 guests in mixed and private rooms. The kitchen serves hearty mountain food: expect polenta, casoeula, and local cheeses. Half-board is standard. The bar does strong coffee. Showers and toilets are adequate; the hut is not luxurious but functional. Staff are straightforward and welcoming. The hut sits on a working hiking route, so it absorbs day visitors as well as overnight guests.
Book directly with the rifugio by phone. Weekends year-round fill quickly, particularly May through October. July and August require booking 4-6 weeks ahead. Winter months (December–February) can be slower; confirm opening before traveling. The hut manages its own bookings rather than using CAI or other club systems, so direct contact is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends and summer; weekday visits can often be arranged with shorter notice. Contact the rifugio directly or check rifugios.net for availability and reservations.
The rifugio operates year-round, though staffing and services are most reliable during summer and autumn; confirm opening dates for winter visits before planning.
The standard approach is 45 minutes from Piani dei Resinelli via marked trails through beech forest; alternative routes from Ballabio (1.5 hours) or Val d'Esino are also available.
Expect basic mountain hut facilities: dormitory beds, simple meals and drinks, and likely a small bathroom; check directly about shower availability as standards vary.
Yes—the easy access difficulty and 45-minute approach from Piani dei Resinelli make it ideal for families and new hikers, with well-maintained paths and proximity to day-hike options in the Resegone group.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website