Città di Mantova

Located at an altitude of 3498 m, at the base of the Garstelet Glacier, in the heart of the Monte Rosa Massif, the Mantova mountain hut is a key base for ascents to the main peaks in the group.

Numerous mountaineering routes start from the refuge, leading to important peaks, including Punta Gnifetti, on top of which stands the famous Regina Margherita Refuge, the highest refuge in Europe. The Mantova is also a strategic stop for glacier crossings and high-altitude routes such as the Alta Via dei Ghiacciai.

The environment is typically high mountain, characterised by glaciers and mountaineering terrain.

The use of a personal sleeping bag liner is mandatory.

How to get there in summer

On foot: from Staffal, follow trail 7, then 7B and finally 6A.
Elevation gain: approx. 1,600 m
Time: approx. 5 hours
Difficulty: experienced hikers. 

How to get there in winter/spring

Ski mountaineering: follow the summer trail in the Vallone della Salza (7 → 7B → 6A).
Elevation gain: approx. 1,600 m
Time: approx. 5 hours
Route: ungroomed and not subject to maintenance
Difficulty: experienced hikers with appropriate equipment

The route can only be tackled after checking the avalanche report and a rescue kit (Artva, shovel and probe) is mandatory.

With lifts in summer/winter/spring 

Check that the lifts are open before planning your trip.

With the cable cars to Gabiet: from Gabiet at an altitude of 2,300 m, follow trail 6A.
Time: approx. 4 hours.
Elevation gain: approx. 200 m.
Difficulty: experienced hikers 

By cable car to Punta Indren: from the Indren station, follow the trail that makes a long traverse under the rocky ridge. Enter the glacier (crampons required).
Time: 1 hour
Elevation gain: 200 m
Difficulty: experienced hikers with equipment