Bivacco Riva - Girani

Bivacco Riva - Girani sits at 1850m in the Vallemaggia valley in southern Ticino, well-positioned for approaches to Pizzo Ticino (3314m) and other peaks in this quieter corner of the Swiss Alps. Access is via the Val Toggia from Ritom or from the Pizzo Ticino hut—expect 2–3 hours from either direction, depending on your fitness and the terrain. The approach involves hiking through dense forest and steep sections; bring a map and know your route, as signposting is minimal.
This is a basic bivouac shelter, not a staffed hut. It sleeps 5 people on simple bunks with limited facilities—no food service, no running water, no electricity. You'll need to be entirely self-sufficient: bring all food, water, stove fuel, and warm layers. The shelter provides a roof and walls, which is invaluable in bad weather, but expect basic Alpine conditions. The bivouac is open year-round, though winter access requires experience with snow and avalanche terrain.
Check locally with Ticino tourism or the Val Toggia mountain guides before heading up—conditions can be harsh and the shelter's condition depends on maintenance. Arrive with a headtorch; late arrivals in poor visibility can be dangerous. Bring a stove and fuel (no wood guaranteed). This is a climber's shelter, not a hiker's hut: use it only if you're comfortable with self-sufficiency and minimal infrastructure.