La Riposa: A New Model of Inclusive Mountain Refuge in the Alps

At an altitude of 2,185 metres, at the foot of Mount Rocciamelone, a mountain refuge in the Susa Valley is exploring a different way of experiencing the mountains.

It is Rifugio La Riposa, above Mompantero, which, thanks to its management by Fondazione Un Passo Insieme Onlus, is described by the Metropolitan City of Turin as the first inclusive mountain refuge in the Alps.

A distinction that is not simply about making a place accessible, but above all about what happens within it.

Since 2025, the Foundation, which develops projects for people with cognitive, psychiatric, neuromotor and relational disabilities, has been entrusted by the Municipality of Mompantero with the management of the refuge until 2027.

During the summer season, the traditional hospitality offered to hikers is combined with a project promoting social and employment inclusion. People with disabilities can spend several days in the mountains, supported by a team of healthcare and social care professionals, in an environment that becomes an opportunity for connection, participation and well-being.

This is precisely what makes the experience distinctive: inclusion becomes part of everyday life at the refuge.

The mountains are not simply seen as an environment that needs to be made accessible, but as a place where experiences, relationships and opportunities can be created. Hikers, staff and guests share the same space, making inclusion a natural part of daily life in a mountain refuge.

In 2026, the Metropolitan City of Turin also chose to support one of the inclusion weeks organised at La Riposa, contributing to an experience that brings together the mountain environment, health and social care expertise, and participation.

At Heimat, we believe that the value of a project such as Rifugio La Riposa also lies in its ability to broaden the very meaning of accessibility.

Making a destination accessible does not simply mean removing physical barriers. It means creating the conditions for people with different needs to experience a place, take part in its activities and feel that they belong.

And perhaps this is the most interesting aspect of the first inclusive mountain refuge in the Alps: showing that, even at more than 2,000 metres above sea level, the mountains can become a place for participation, independence and connection.

Through Accessible Piedmont, we will continue to highlight places and projects that are exploring new ways of making Piedmont more open and welcoming to everyone.

Source

This article is inspired by the press release “Il primo rifugio alpino inclusivo”, published by the Metropolitan City of Turin, and presents an original editorial adaptation for informational purposes.