Rifugio Brioschi

At the summit of the Grigna Settentrionale you will find the Rifugio Brioschi. The word "rifugio" literally means "refuge". A rifugio in Italy is usually a rustic mountain shelter or rest stop that often includes sleeping facilities, typically bunk beds in a large communal room.

Open 365 days of the year, the Rifugio Brioschi is literally perched on the summit of the mountain. It is the perfect rest stop for lunch, dinner, and even a night's sleep for those wishing to extend their hike onward or simply experience a night on the top of a mountain. If the weather is right, the sun setting behind the arc of the European alps creates a mountain sunset view from the Grigna that you will never forget.

If you want to sleep at Rifugio Brioshi it is a good idea to call ahead and reserve a spot. There are a few "rooms" that are made up of three or so bunks, so if it is not crowded, or you are a small group, you may be able to get a little room that offers some privacy. There are no shower facilities - except for access to a large container of rain water that you could use to wash yourself down a bit. There are public washrooms, the conditions of which seem to vary from visit to visit. If you need to use the washroom in the middle of the night you will need a flashlight, always a handy thing to keep in your pack anyway.