Refuge Crespi-Calderini

Rifugio Crespi-Calderini sits at 1836m in the Vercelli Alps above Val Mastalone, accessible from the village of Rossa in the Olen valley. The approach takes 2 hours on foot from Rossa, gaining 800m through alpine meadows and sparse larch forest. The hut serves as a base for exploring the gentler peaks and ridge walks of this quieter corner of the western Alps, away from the crowded Pennine routes.
The rifugio is small, with 6 beds across simple dormitory rooms. The CAI Varallo Sesia section maintains the hut as a working mountain refuge rather than a comfortable hotel. Hot meals are available if you book ahead; bring your own sleeping bag and expect basic facilities. The hut operates year-round but check conditions before winter attempts—snow can isolate the approach for weeks. Water comes from a natural spring.
Book directly with the managers by email or phone (contact details via CAI Varallo Sesia). Summer weekends fill quickly, so contact at least 2–3 weeks ahead for July and August. Outside peak season you can often arrange accommodation with shorter notice. The hut is popular with walkers tackling the local ridge circuit and those exploring the less-trafficked valleys east of the Simplon region.