Rifugio Rinfreddo

Rifugio Rinfreddo sits at 1883m in the Apennines, accessed via the CAI 00 trail from Passo della Cisa (1041m). The approach takes 3–4 hours on a well-marked path that gains 850m steadily through beech forest before opening onto alpine pasture. Most hikers reach here from the north via Pontremoli or from the south via La Spezia. The hut functions as a key waypoint on the high-route traverse of the northern Apennines, with reasonable access to nearby peaks and ridge walks.
Rifugio Rinfreddo has 40 beds split across multiple rooms. Meals focus on regional Ligurian and Emilian cuisine—expect hearty pasta, local cheese, and cured meats rather than haute cuisine. The kitchen provides vegetarian options if you notify them in advance. Hot showers are available. The hut operates year-round, though staffing and services are reduced November through March; confirm opening before visiting outside summer. Winter access depends on snow conditions and may require crampons.
Book directly by phone or email for stays June through September, when weekends fill quickly. Outside peak season, walk-ins are usually fine. The hut charges roughly €30–40 per night for bed and breakfast. Half-board (bed, breakfast, dinner) runs €50–60. Payment in cash is preferred but confirm methods when booking. The guardian can usually arrange packed lunches for early starts.