For a classic family holiday in the mountains look no further than staying in a refuge. And it was with families in mind that last year Monica and Matteo along with their 7 year-old Davide took over the running of the Rifugio Chiavenna at Alpe Angeloga above Campodolcino. From May until the end of October this young family plays host to tourists and hikers who choose to stop over within this beautiful basin at the foot of Pizza Stella, providing quality refuge accommodation; but it’s the little extras such as the activities and initiatives they have introduced which over time are proving popular and very much their ‘forte’. Monica and Matteo began by putting together a series of outings within the adjacent area: trips to Alpine animal shelters, walks to appreciate the mountain flora and fauna and other experiences within the surrounding natural environment aimed specifically with the young in mind. “Angeloga is a vast flat area” explains Monica, “with a splendid lake alongside for fishing, and we’re surrounded by magnificent peaks within the splendour of nature itself. Here children can enjoy themselves to their heart’s content, within a context where they are constantly discovering new things. It was as much as anything our small son Davide with his constant tales of day-to-day experiences that prompted us along this path.
At the same time anyone who enjoys walking in the mountains will find the refuge an ideal base from where to head towards the tops, take in some trekking amongst the surrounding ridges, to Valle di Lei, Lago Nero or Lago dei Camini.
To reach the refuge, take the car from Campodolcino up to Fraciscio and then head along the path which in a gentle climb of about an hour brings you up to the high pastures. Plans for the near future involve the organisation of daily fishing permits, evenings devoted to observing the night sky (the area is practically devoid of light pollution) musical concerts, practical courses like nature photography and inspired initiatives such as Scottish whisky tasting!
