Refuge Alpetto di Caviano
© Francesco Stoppa / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0

Refuge Alpetto di Caviano

1.6

Rifugio Alpetto di Caviano

1,255m Ticino, Switzerland
Easy

About

Rifugio Alpetto di Caviano sits at 1,255m in the Ticino Alps, above the village of Caviano in the Centovalli valley. Reach it on foot from Caviano in roughly 1.5 hours via a steep, forested trail that gains 450m elevation. This is a small hut, suited to walkers who want to escape the crowds on the Ticino circuit routes and day-hikers exploring the lower alpine zone.
The refuge operates year-round and sleeps 10 guests in basic, shared dormitory accommodation. Meals are available: the guardian serves evening meals and breakfast, though numbers are small enough that you should discuss requirements when you book. Water comes from a spring. The hut has no electricity or mobile signal. Expect a simple, rustic experience suited to hikers comfortable with minimal facilities.
Book directly with the guardian by telephone or in advance through the local municipality office in Caviano. The hut fills on weekends in July and August, particularly during the Centovalli hiking season. Spring and autumn see steadier foot traffic. Winter access depends on snow conditions and the guardian's availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead, especially weekends; the hut has only 10 beds and fills quickly during good weather.
Open year-round, though staffing and meal availability are best June through September.
Hike from Caviano village in 1.5 hours via a steep forested trail that climbs 450m elevation gain.
Basic dormitory beds with shared facilities; meals available when the guardian is present (confirm when booking).
Yes, for fit beginners—the 1.5-hour approach is steep but short, and day-hikers use it regularly.

Quick Facts

Season
Total
10
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Contact & Booking

Email
Phone
Website