Easy
About
Rifugio Menaggio sits at 1,383m on the slopes above Lake Como in Lombardy. Reach it from the village of Menaggio on the lake shore—a steep 2.5-hour hike gains 1,000m through chestnut woodland and Alpine meadow. The trail is direct but relentless. You can also approach from the ridge trails connecting to higher huts in the Como Alps if you're linking multi-day routes.
The rifugio is small, with 20 beds split across basic shared rooms. Meals are home-cooked and filling—the kitchen focuses on polenta, risotto, and local cheeses. Water comes from a spring. The hut has no electricity beyond a generator, so nights are quiet and dark. It's staffed year-round but conditions are marginal in winter; confirm access before attempting December through March. Summer sees regular walker traffic; autumn is quieter.
Book directly by email or phone well ahead for July and August—the hut fills fast on weekends. For other months, contact a few days before. The nearest town is Menaggio itself, which has bus links to Como and basic supplies. Expect basic mountain hospitality rather than comfort; this hut attracts hikers who prioritize location and solitude over amenities.
The rifugio is small, with 20 beds split across basic shared rooms. Meals are home-cooked and filling—the kitchen focuses on polenta, risotto, and local cheeses. Water comes from a spring. The hut has no electricity beyond a generator, so nights are quiet and dark. It's staffed year-round but conditions are marginal in winter; confirm access before attempting December through March. Summer sees regular walker traffic; autumn is quieter.
Book directly by email or phone well ahead for July and August—the hut fills fast on weekends. For other months, contact a few days before. The nearest town is Menaggio itself, which has bus links to Como and basic supplies. Expect basic mountain hospitality rather than comfort; this hut attracts hikers who prioritize location and solitude over amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during summer weekends; mid-week visits need less notice. Call directly or check rifugio.net for availability and current booking procedures.
Typically open June through September, though dates vary—confirm current season dates by calling ahead, as staffing depends on weather and demand.
Start from the village of Menaggio on Lake Como's shore; the main trail is a steep 2.5-hour push gaining 1,000m through chestnut woods and meadow. You can also arrive via ridge trails from higher huts if doing a multi-day loop.
Home-cooked, filling meals are served; 20 beds in basic shared rooms with essential facilities. Confirm if hot showers are available when you book.
The 2.5-hour ascent with 1,000m gain is steep and relentless—better for hikers with solid fitness. Not ideal for young children, but fine for teenagers and families with Alpine experience.
Location
46.0603, 9.2187
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Lombardy before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in LombardyBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
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
5.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Season
- Jun 15-Sep 15; Sa-Su; PH
- Total
- 20
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +3903441930017
- Website
- http://rifugiomenaggio.eu
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.