Bivacco Boarelli, Mountain shelter in Pontechianale, Italy

Bivacco Boarelli, also called Bivacco delle Forciolline, stands at about 2,820 m below the south face of Monviso near the Forciolline lakes. The structure is divided into three sections: an entrance area with two folding tables, stools and two bunks; a central corridor with ten bunks in two tiers; and rear technical rooms with a chemical toilet, battery storage and waste collection.

This shelter was built in 2004 to create a secure rest point for mountaineers traveling the remote high-altitude trails of this region. Its construction addressed the need for more protection options along these demanding routes.

The shelter reflects how mountaineers support each other in remote alpine areas, embodying a culture of self-reliance and community care among those tackling high peaks.

Access starts from Castello, a hamlet of Pontechianale, following the trail to Rifugio Vallanta; at about 2000 m leave it for the Ezio Nicoli trail up the Forciolline valley. The hut has 12 beds, is always open and has no staff, so bring a sleeping bag and supplies. A solar system powers an emergency radio linked to 118.

The spot where the shelter now stands was used by Quintino Sella and his expedition on the evening of 11 August 1863, when only a couple of tents stood here before the final ascent of Monviso. The hut opened in 2004 and is named after Alessandra Boarelli, the first woman to climb Monviso, in 1864.