Until a few years ago in the Gran Sasso area there weren't many huts you could rely on to sleep or eat. There was the Rifugio di Campo Imperatore and the nearby hotel. And the Rifugio di Fonte Vetica and of course the historic Rifugio Franchetti.
For a few years now, thanks to thoughtful management, the Rifugio di Lago Racollo has been reborn. It's an excellent facility able to take in hikers in rooms for 1, 2 or 3 people.
The hut is located not far from the junction between the SS 17 and the road that climbs from Santo Stefano di Sessanio to Campo Imperatore. From the hut you can comfortably enjoy a good view of the Corno Grande and a magnificent view of Monte Prena, of Monte Camicia and of the lower Monte Bolza.
Our compliments to the manager, who is carrying forward the hut's redevelopment project with skill and passion. The food is really excellent...
What to know before you go
The hut is open all year round, offers meals with local produce and has drinking water: so it's a handy base in the winter months too. There aren't many beds, so it's worth booking ahead; management and contact details may change, so check them before you set off.
Its position, close to the road to Campo Imperatore, also makes it suitable for those looking for short hikes or a stop between one climb and the next: from the hut you can reach Monte Bolza, the Infornace, Monte Prena, Monte Camicia and the village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio. The panorama isn't very wide, because the building is tucked among low promontories, but the Corno Grande stays clearly in view. For a demanding climb nearby see the route to Monte Prena by the Via dei Laghetti.
Photo gallery
Fact sheet
- Apennine area
- Central Apennines
- Mountain group
- Gran Sasso
- Staffed hut
- Yes
- Opening season
- All year
- Meals available
- Yes
- Beds
- 12
- Water available
- Drinking water
- Altitude (metres)
- 1500
- Contact and/or manager
- Paolo Pattara
- Phone number 1
- +39 0862 1956 099
- Phone number 2
- +39 320 64 75 949
- info@rifugioracollo.com
- Hiking opportunities
Monte Bolza, Monte Prena, Infornace, Monte Camicia, Santo Stefano di Sessanio.
Panorama not very wide. The hut is tucked among low promontories, yet it still gives a good view of the Corno Grande.
- Upkeep of the surrounding area
- Good
- Local produce menu
- Yes
- Cleanliness / hygiene
- Excellent
- Condition of the building
- Excellent
- Posizione Geografica del Rifugio
Visualizza Rifugio del Lago Racollo in una mappa di dimensioni maggiori