Refuge Vaccaro
1.7Rifugio Vaccaro
Lombardy, Italy
About
Rifugio Vaccaro sits at 2,182m in the Orobian Alps above the Val Seriana in Lombardy. Reach it from Castione della Presolana (950m) via a steep forest path that takes 4–5 hours. The final approach crosses open alpine meadows with views down to the valleys. Most hikers arrive from the south, but you can also access it from Valbondione or Ardesio for a longer day. The hut lies on the high route linking Castione to Passo della Presolana.
The rifugio has 50 beds across mixed dorms and a few doubles. Meals are typical mountain fare—pasta, polenta, grilled meat. Half-board is the standard arrangement; book your dinner the night before if you want anything special. Showers are available. The hut operates year-round, though November to March sees reduced staffing and limited beds. Water from the spring outside is reliable.
Book direct through the hut or via CAI (the Bergamo section manages the approach paths). July and August require a booking 4–6 weeks ahead. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and weekends. June and September are quieter and offer nearly identical weather. Phone ahead in winter—opening depends on snow and staffing. Budget €25–30 for bed and breakfast, €15–20 for dinner.
The rifugio has 50 beds across mixed dorms and a few doubles. Meals are typical mountain fare—pasta, polenta, grilled meat. Half-board is the standard arrangement; book your dinner the night before if you want anything special. Showers are available. The hut operates year-round, though November to March sees reduced staffing and limited beds. Water from the spring outside is reliable.
Book direct through the hut or via CAI (the Bergamo section manages the approach paths). July and August require a booking 4–6 weeks ahead. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and weekends. June and September are quieter and offer nearly identical weather. Phone ahead in winter—opening depends on snow and staffing. Budget €25–30 for bed and breakfast, €15–20 for dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak summer (July–August), especially for weekends. Call ahead directly—the hut doesn't list online booking systems, so phone is your best option.
Open and staffed in summer months; typical season runs June through September, though confirm exact dates by calling ahead as staffing can vary by year.
Start from Castione della Presolana (950m) and follow the steep forest path for 4–5 hours; the final section crosses alpine meadows with valley views. You can also access it from Valbondione or Ardesio for longer, alternative approaches.
50 beds in mixed dorms and a few doubles; expect basic alpine hut standards with meals served. Hot showers and toilet facilities are standard, though water may be limited in dry periods.
The 4–5 hour approach from Castione is steep and suited to hikers with solid fitness; it's better for experienced walkers than beginners, though families with older children (10+) used to mountain terrain can manage it.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website
- https://www.rifugiovaccaro.it/