Rifugio SEV stands at 1,276 metres on the Alpe di Pianezzo, in the municipality of Valbrona, on the northern side of the Corni di Canzo. It is run by ASD S.E.V. Valmadrera — Società Escursionisti Valmadreresi (“Valmadrera Hikers’ Society”) — through a group of volunteers.
History
The idea of building a hut at Pianezzo was born in 1957 within the Società Escursionisti Valmadreresi. Construction began in 1960, and the Rifugio S.E.V. was inaugurated on 13 September 1964.
What to see and services
From the hut’s wide terrace, the view stretches from the Alps to the Lecco branch of Lake Como, to the Grigne group and the Resegone. The hut has around 80 beds and 100 dining seats; services include hot water, electricity, showers, sheet bags, vegetarian and allergy-friendly menus, internet access, GSM coverage and an ATM.
Getting there
The hut is reached on foot from the Fonti di Gajum, a hamlet of Canzo: Path 1 (via the 1st and 3rd Alpe) takes about two and a half hours with 740 metres of ascent, while Path 5, via the Colletta dei Corni, is the more direct route and takes about two hours for the same ascent. From the hut, the final climb to the Corni di Canzo begins, described in the Ascesa ai Corni di Canzo itinerary.
Practical information
- Opening: weekends, midweek public holidays and Wednesdays from March to October; every day in August.
- Management: ASD S.E.V. Valmadrera (Società Escursionisti Valmadreresi), run by volunteers.
- Hours and availability can vary seasonally: check the official website (rifugiosev.it) before setting out.