Best huts around Varenna provide access to the diverse trails of the Lombard Prealps, situated between Lake Como and the Grigne and Resegone mountain ranges. These mountain structures offer shelter, food, and serve as bases for exploring the surrounding alpine environment. They are ideal for day trips or overnight stays, providing panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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very nice, not for everyone. Walls equipped with chains and cables, can be done without a harness, but great care is still required.
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Parking in Ballabio for the whole day cost about 5 euros, and from there, it was a steep climb straight away along the path through the forest and up the mountain until reaching the summit at 2,180 m. A spectacular experience. It took about 3 hours to get to the top. And the descent took another 3, but it was worth it. There is no shelter, so bring a packed lunch. Not for beginners! Expert level. Elevation gain: 900 m.
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Magical place during the winter while the sun rises. During the central hours too crowded and you can't enjoy the moment
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Legendary summit bivouac on Grignetta, it's a must!
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Rifugio Menaggio, located at 1383 m, offers unique views of Lake Como. It is the ideal base for climbing Monte Grona, with via ferratas or challenging trails. It is a panoramic and welcoming point for every hiker, it is managed by the CAI and offers refreshments and overnight stays in the summer season.
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Refuge easily accessible even in winter.
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Spectacular refuge in a wonderful place. In winter it is fantastic! Very popular, always being on the ring road by how many people are climbing. Steep climb, the famous wailing wall, it just takes a bit of training and perseverance. The refuge is welcoming, managed by very welcoming and kind guys. Sunset and sunrise are wonderful.
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The most iconic refuge in the Lecco area (together perhaps with the Azzoni on the Resegone) reachable by following dozens of itineraries, in all seasons, choosing between various degrees of technical difficulty or training even if the difference in altitude is never small.
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The Varenna area offers a variety of mountain accommodations, ranging from traditional rifugi (huts) that provide full services like food and overnight stays, to basic bivouacs and shelters on summits. Many are managed by the CAI (Italian Alpine Club) and serve as essential bases for exploring the Lombard Prealps.
For breathtaking views, consider Rosalba Hut, which provides expansive views of Lake Como and the Grigne mountains. Menaggio Hut also offers unique panoramic views of Lake Como from its 1,383-meter elevation. For a truly spectacular experience, Brioschi Hut (Grigna Settentrionale Summit), at 2,410 meters, is renowned for its sunset and sunrise views from the peak.
Yes, several huts serve as excellent starting points for more demanding routes. Menaggio Hut is an ideal base for climbing Monte Grona, including via ferratas. Rosalba Hut is also a popular starting point for various climbs in the Grigne mountains. For those seeking a significant challenge, reaching Brioschi Hut (Grigna Settentrionale Summit) involves a steep climb, including the 'wailing wall', suitable for experienced hikers.
Many huts, especially those managed by the CAI, provide refreshments and accommodation for overnight stays. For example, Rosalba Hut offers good food and comfortable rooms, with large outdoor tables for dining. Menaggio Hut also offers refreshments and overnight stays during the summer season.
The ideal hiking seasons for visiting the huts are spring and autumn. However, winter also offers opportunities due to the mild Mediterranean climate. It's always advisable to inquire about opening times, as some huts may only be open on weekends or during specific seasons.
Yes, the Brioschi Hut (Grigna Settentrionale Summit) is a notable historical structure. Inaugurated in October 1895 as 'Capanna Grigna Vetta', it was later renamed 'Luigi Brioschi' in 1926, making it one of the most iconic and historic refuges in the Lecco area.
Visitors frequently praise the unique and gigantic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The quiet atmosphere, good food, and the huts serving as excellent starting points for further hiking or climbing are also highly appreciated. The community has shared over 300 photos and given more than 500 upvotes for the huts in the area.
Yes, the Ferrario Shelter is a legendary summit bivouac on Grignetta, known for its unique 'igloo' or 'spaceship' design and spectacular views, especially at sunset. The Grigne and Resegone mountains are also renowned for their climbing routes and challenging trails, including via ferratas and cliffs for extreme sports.
Beyond hiking and climbing to the huts, the Varenna area offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can explore MTB Trails, enjoy Road Cycling Routes, or go Running on various trails. Many huts serve as excellent bases for these activities, allowing you to experience the diverse landscapes of the Lombard Prealps.
Yes, Brioschi Hut (Grigna Settentrionale Summit) is situated directly on the peak of Grigna Settentrionale (Grignone), making it a prime location for exploring this area. Rifugio Bogani and Rifugio Elisa are also key huts in the region, serving as excellent starting points for ascents to Grignone and interesting crossings.
While some huts, like those at the Resinelli plains, might be accessible by car, many require a hike. These hikes can range from a few hours to multi-day excursions, with varying technical difficulties. It's important to check the specific access requirements for each hut you plan to visit.


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