How to get to Genova-Figari Refuge in Cuneo
Italy, europe
15 km
1,915 m
hard
Year-round
# Rifugio Genova-Figari: A High-Alpine Adventure
Perched at a stunning 2,015 meters (6,610 feet) in Italy's Piedmont region, Rifugio Genova-Figari sits in the shadow of Mount Argentera—the crown jewel of the Alpi Marittime at 3,297 meters. This is seriously high-altitude territory.
The refuge has quite a story. The original shelter, built way back in 1898, was a modest stone building that served as a base for alpine guides and climbers. Unfortunately, it met its fate when the Chiotas and Colle Laura dams were constructed in the 1970s, flooding the entire basin. ENEL, the hydroelectric company behind the project, stepped up and rebuilt the refuge at its current location in 1981. Today, you'll find a proper mountain lodge with a restaurant, bar, and cozy accommodation—though it only operates mid-June through mid-September.
Getting here is an adventure itself. The 15-kilometer (9.3-mile) route from Entracque is completely unpaved and ridiculously steep—4x4 vehicles only, and even then, it's off-limits to private cars. Don't underestimate this drive.
The reward? You're surrounded by the Maritime Alps Natural Park, nestled between two spectacular lakes. Brocan Lake has glacial origins, while the stunning Chiotàs Lake powers one of Europe's largest pumped-storage hydroelectric stations. Pure alpine magic.
Where is it?
How to get to Genova-Figari Refuge in Cuneo is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 41.6291, 12.8365
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 15 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,915 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 41.6291, 12.8365
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