Refuge Mello
1.8Rifugio Mello
1,100m
Lombardy, Italy
About
Rifugio Mello sits at 1100m in the Val di Mello valley, a limestone gorge southeast of Lecco in Lombardy. The hut is reached from Ardenno or from the main Val Masino approach via a steep 2 to 2.5-hour walk. Most hikers use this base for day trips into the valley's rock formations and Alpine passes rather than as a link in longer traverses.
The rifugio sleeps around 25 people in shared dormitories. Meals are simple—pasta, polenta, cheese, and meat from local producers. Half-board is standard. The hut operates May through September, with weekends busy year-round. No showers, but washing facilities are adequate. Cell reception is reliable enough for booking confirmation. The guardian manages the kitchen and can advise on nearby crags and scrambling routes.
Phone ahead to book, especially for weekends and July. Arrive early on Friday or Saturday if you haven't reserved. The hut does not use online booking systems—calling is the only method. Expect a full hut on summer weekends and plan accordingly. Midweek visits in June or early September offer quieter stays.
The rifugio sleeps around 25 people in shared dormitories. Meals are simple—pasta, polenta, cheese, and meat from local producers. Half-board is standard. The hut operates May through September, with weekends busy year-round. No showers, but washing facilities are adequate. Cell reception is reliable enough for booking confirmation. The guardian manages the kitchen and can advise on nearby crags and scrambling routes.
Phone ahead to book, especially for weekends and July. Arrive early on Friday or Saturday if you haven't reserved. The hut does not use online booking systems—calling is the only method. Expect a full hut on summer weekends and plan accordingly. Midweek visits in June or early September offer quieter stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August), especially weekends; shoulder months need 1–2 weeks. Call the rifugio directly or check rifugio.net for current availability.
Open June through September during standard season, though exact dates vary yearly; contact the rifugio by phone to confirm current operating dates.
Approach from Ardenno or via Val Masino; the main route is a steep 2–2.5 hour walk gaining roughly 800m elevation. It's rated easy-to-moderate, so fit day-hikers handle it without issue.
Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included); meals are simple Alpine fare—pasta, polenta, cheese, and local meats. Beds are dormitory-style (capacity ~25); ask about shower availability when booking.
Yes—the access is easy-to-moderate and the rifugio works well as a day-hiking base for families or less experienced hikers exploring Val di Mello's rock formations and passes. Not ideal for multi-day traverses.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 25
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 338 5612670
- Website