Rifugio Delfo e Agostino Coda
The place
Staffed CAI Biella refuge set at 2280 m on the watershed between the Valle del Lys and the Valle dell'Elvo, Carisey sector (municipality of Pollone, province of Biella, Piedmont, Italy). Built in 1947 and later restored on the initiative of engineer Agostino Coda of Vandorno (BI), in memory of his son Delfo, who died at 18 during the partisan war in a Nazi roundup at Traversella (TO) on October 14, 1944. After engineer Coda's death in 1958, the refuge also took his first name. Capacity of about 50 beds, winter room with 8 spots. Open from July to September and on weekends in May, June and October. Classic access: 2 h from the Oropa sanctuary (a Marian pilgrimage site founded in the 4th century) or 2 h 45 from Coumarial. Remarkable position below Monte Mars (2600 m) and Punta Tre Vescovi, at the heart of the Piedmont Pennine Alps. Exceptional mineral and lake setting of the Pennine Alps: subalpine grasslands, glacial lakes, panorama over Monte Rosa (4634 m). Iconic wildlife: chamois, ibex, marmot, golden eagle, alpine ptarmigan.
Getting there
From the Oropa sanctuary (2 h) or Coumarial (2 h 45). Open July-September plus weekends in May/June/October.
The setting
Pollone (Biella), below Monte Mars (2600 m) and Punta Tre Vescovi, Pennine Alps.
