Refuge Barfè

2.6

Rifugio Barfè

1,180m Piedmont, Italy
Easy

About

Rifugio Barfè sits at 1,180m in the Ligurian Alps on the border between Piedmont and Liguria. Reach it from Mendatica (Valle Arroscia) in 2.5 hours via the CAI trail network. The hut works well as a base for day hikes across the lower ridges and passes of this less-crowded range, or as a stopping point on longer traverses linking the Maritime Alps to the Appennines.

The rifugio offers 40 beds in simple rooms. Meals focus on local Piedmont cooking—expect polenta, mushroom dishes, and hearty pasta. The kitchen supplies packed lunches if you're moving on. Water comes from the spring; the hut has no shower. It operates year-round, though winter staffing depends on snow conditions—call ahead in November and March. Half board (room and dinner/breakfast) is standard; camping is not allowed.

Book direct by phone or email. July and August fill fast; aim for 2–3 weeks ahead in summer. June, September, and October see steady traffic but have more availability. Winter visits need advance notice. The hut is managed independently, not affiliated with CAI or SAT, so check their website or contact them directly for current rates and opening status before planning a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead during summer weekends; weekdays and shoulder seasons offer more flexibility. Call the rifugio directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Most Piedmont rifugio at this elevation stay open May through October, with weekends-only service in shoulder months; confirm current dates by phone before planning your trip.
Start from Mendatica in Valle Arroscia and follow CAI-marked trails for 2.5 hours; the hut sits at 1,180m, making it accessible for fit hikers on a day approach.
40 beds in simple shared rooms, meals featuring local Piedmont cooking (polenta, mushroom dishes, hearty pasta); confirm whether showers are available when you book.
Yes—the 2.5-hour approach is moderate, the 1,180m elevation is forgiving, and it works well as a base for easier day hikes across the less-crowded Ligurian Alps ridges.

Quick Facts

Managing club
CAI
Season
Total
40
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Meals served Drinking water

Contact & Booking

Phone
+39 0121 932762
Website
https://invalpellice.com/en/agriturismo-rifugio-barfe-farmhouse/