Refuge Forcora

Rifugio Forcora sits at 1,164m in the Val Bavona in southern Ticino, a steep-sided valley on the south side of the Gotthard massif. The hut is accessible from Fontana on the valley floor: allow 2.5 to 3 hours to walk up. You can also approach from the Nufenen Pass (2,478m) in 4 to 5 hours descending south. The hut is a base for day walks in the upper Val Bavona and crossings toward the Lukmanier Pass region.
Rifugio Forcora is tiny—8 beds only—run as a simple mountain hostel with basic dormitory accommodation. Meals are available on request; expect hearty alpine food. The hut has no shower and limited water (meltwater or collected rainwater in dry spells). It operates year-round but is staffed seasonally; winter visits require advance arrangement. The setting is remote and quiet, with no road access.
Book well ahead for July and August; email or phone the hut directly. Out of season, confirm opening before you leave. The hut fills quickly because of its isolation and low capacity. Arrive early in the day if you're walking in from Fontana, as the final approach is steep and exposed to the sun. Credit card payment may not be available; bring cash.