Refuge Militare del Forte di Orino

2.7

Rifugio Militare del Forte di Orino

Lombardy, Italy Write a review

About

Rifugio Militare del Forte di Orino sits at 2,011m on the ridge between the Val Seriana and Val di Scalve in the Bergamasque Prealps. Access from the south is via the village of Castione della Presolana. The standard approach takes 2.5 hours from Passo della Presolana (1,299m). You can also reach it in 3 hours from Rifugio Naro to the east, making it useful as a linking point on a multi-day traverse. The final section climbs steeply through pasture and scattered rock.

The rifugio operates as a working military installation with limited civilian access. It offers basic dormitory beds and meals on a reservation-only basis. The building occupies the remains of a WWI fortification—a reminder that this ridge saw heavy fighting during the war. Water comes from a spring nearby. The hut closes from November to April. Expect a functional, no-frills experience focused on hikers doing high-altitude traverses rather than casual day visitors.

Book well in advance through direct contact. Telephone ahead to confirm both availability and access conditions, as military use takes priority. The hut fills quickly in July and August. July and early August are the busiest months; aim for June or September if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August); weekends fill quickly. Contact via rifugio.net or check CAI's hut directory at cai.it for direct phone numbers, as mountain huts often lack reliable email.
Typically open June through September, though exact dates vary by year; confirm opening dates before planning, as spring snow can delay access and autumn weather closes it quickly.
From Passo della Presolana (1,299m), allow 2.5 hours; the final section climbs steeply through pasture and rock. Alternatively, it's 3 hours from Rifugio Naro to the east, making it a solid mid-route stop on a traverse.
As a small military rifugio, expect basic mountain hospitality: simple meals (usually pasta and local fare), dormitory beds, and limited or no shower facilities; bring a headlamp and confirm capacity when booking.
The steep final approach and basic facilities suit experienced hikers; families with older children (12+) comfortable on exposed terrain can manage it, but it's not ideal for young kids or those seeking comfort.

Location

45.8732, 8.7367
Directions OpenStreetMap

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Reservation recommended.

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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.

We can't watch this hut's availability — it books direct. Give us your arrival date and we'll email you when it's time to get in touch, with the hut's phone and email.

Independent of the hut and its alpine club. We never book or hold beds — the reminder just tells you when to get in touch, with the hut's own contact details.

HutLists Score

2.7
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Quick Facts

Managing club
private

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