Demanding
About
Rifugio Eugenio Margaroli sits at 2,193m on the slopes of Monte Rosa in Piedmont's Wallis Valley, serving hikers tackling the Wallis high route and day walkers from the Macugnaga valley. Most people reach it in 3 to 4 hours from Staffal, following the mule track that gains 700m steadily through larch forest before opening onto alpine meadows. The final approach crosses loose scree toward the stone building.
The refuge holds 40 beds split between two dormitories and a handful of double rooms. The kitchen provides half-board meals and packed lunches for onward travel. Water comes from the spring outside; the building has minimal heating, so nights are cold even in summer. The season runs mid-June through late September. No electricity or shower facilities—this is a working hut, not a hotel.
Book 8 weeks ahead for July and August weekends, especially if you're part of a group. Contact the guardian directly by phone or email through CAI's rifugio system at cai.it. The hut belongs to CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), so members get a small discount. Winter access requires avalanche experience and local knowledge; confirm conditions before setting out in shoulder months.
The refuge holds 40 beds split between two dormitories and a handful of double rooms. The kitchen provides half-board meals and packed lunches for onward travel. Water comes from the spring outside; the building has minimal heating, so nights are cold even in summer. The season runs mid-June through late September. No electricity or shower facilities—this is a working hut, not a hotel.
Book 8 weeks ahead for July and August weekends, especially if you're part of a group. Contact the guardian directly by phone or email through CAI's rifugio system at cai.it. The hut belongs to CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), so members get a small discount. Winter access requires avalanche experience and local knowledge; confirm conditions before setting out in shoulder months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead during July-August, especially if you need a private room; weekends fill faster. Call ahead or check rifugio.net for availability.
Open June through September, fully staffed during these months; confirm opening dates with the hut directly as weather and staffing can shift.
Start from Staffal in the Macugnaga valley and follow the mule track for 3-4 hours, gaining 700m through larch forest and alpine meadows to reach the hut at 2,193m.
40 beds in two dormitories plus a few double rooms; full meals served daily, basic washroom facilities with cold water typical at this elevation.
Yes for fit families—the 3-4 hour approach is steady but relentless, gaining 700m on a well-marked track; younger children or inexperienced hikers may find it challenging as a first Alpine hut.
Location
46.3852, 8.3652
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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
4.3
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI Club Alpino Italiano
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 3289040431
- Website
- https://www.rifugiomargarolicai.com/
Activities
Featured In
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