Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB - Stella Alpina 2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Robster (Post 170900)

You can camp at "Base Camp" about 1/3 of the way up the mountain, though you need to take everything up there that you're going to need. There are no facilities at all (sparing a lovely waterfall/shower!) and it's a looong bumpy ride back down to Bardo if you run out of beers!

There is (or was at least) free camping available in Bardo itself, but again no facilities. You do get use of the municipal sports centre though for toilets and showers. Or you've got Bokki camping. This to be honest was a bit crap. Bikers are put in a separate field and it's a fair trek to the loos/showers/bar...it's also expensive and a good 3 or 4 mile hike back into town.

For me, I'd stay at the free camping in town.

Camping at the Rifugio is actually 2/3 of the way up the mountain and is do-able with camping gear.

The Rifugio is open during lunch times and had loos,showers, beer and good food!

I would suggest taking all you need up for the time you will be there - food water etc , and instead of beer try taking the vino tavolo in 1.5 litre fruit juice paks. Fit into panniers nicely and no worry about the vibes on the way up. Water is drinkanle , but would recommend giving it a boil for at least 10 mins before drinking. Also keep an eye on your fuel levels.

It is a 40 mile round trip , and not a good idea to do with a full tank, about mid level seems to balance it nicely.

Camping at the Rifuggio is one of those "must do" things at some point to get a taste of real adventure touring :)

Wish I was off again this year , but can't ride yet due to a dodgy shoulder and recent bout of sciatica due to a low speed spill in December ... next year however :)