Refuge Mulatero

Rifugio Mulatero sits at 1,200m in the Ligurian Alps of Piedmont, roughly 90 minutes' drive southwest of Turin. The hut anchors itself in the Pian dei Prà valley. Most hikers reach it from Colle della Lombarda (1,991m) via a 2.5-hour descent, or from Limone Piemonte (1,010m) with a steady 3-hour climb. The approach follows marked trails through beech and chestnut forest. Shorter day walks radiating from the hut connect to col routes and ridgeline views across the Ligurian Apennines toward the Mediterranean coast.

The rifugio operates year-round and beds 30 guests in simple double and four-bed rooms. Meals centre on Piedmont specialities—tajarin with butter and sage, brasato, local cheese. Water flows from the valley springs. Hot showers are available. The hut manager runs a small shop stocking basics and trail snacks. Facilities are functional rather than luxurious; expect mountain hut standards. Winter access requires checking conditions; snow closes higher approaches, though the valley trail usually remains passable.

Book direct by phone or email through the rifugio's website. The hut fills on summer weekends and during autumn school holidays. July and August demand 3–4 weeks' notice. Shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October) offer easier availability. Half-board pricing is standard. The rifugio accepts small groups but requires advance notice for parties over eight people.