Casa al Giogo

The Casa al Giogo Refuge is, first and foremost, a house, yellow and welcoming, nestled in the green meadows of the Upper Mugello, where in summer cows come to cool off. A place that conveys warmth and hospitality, immersed in the beauty of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines, capable of making anyone feel welcome. Casa al Giogo is not just an alpine refuge, but an eco-sustainable accommodation facility, where Sustainable, Responsible, and Social Tourism is practiced and promoted. Here, the journey is not just a displacement, but an authentic experience, an opportunity to harmonize with the territory, the social fabric, and the surrounding nature. It is a place to breathe in the uniqueness of the landscape, savor the local culture, and live a form of tourism that respects the environment, benefits the community, and creates deep connections between travelers, nature, and local residents. The refuge has an ancient history, characterized by a simple life closely tied to the land. Once upon a time, it was an old farmhouse inhabited by several farming families, silent witnesses of the harshness and beauty of mountain life. It is said that many years ago, a woman gave birth there on a winter night when snow covered every path. Later, an Irishman and his family lived there, raising rabbits. Then, for several years, Casa al Giogo remained abandoned, allowing nature to reclaim the spaces until vegetation enveloped the walls and some parts collapsed. In 2006, thanks to European funding obtained in collaboration with the Astolfo Association, which focuses on mental health, the Mountain Union of Mugello completely renovated the refuge, giving it new life. For some years, Casa al Giogo was a reference point for stays and meetings dedicated to people with mental disabilities. Today, its vocation for hospitality and sharing continues with the management of the APS Intersections, which has made it a reference point for sustainable and social tourism. The Casa al Giogo Refuge is open all year round and caters to the needs of different travelers. During the summer, it welcomes families, solo travelers, couples, and groups of hikers, trekking and cycling enthusiasts, offering overnight stays in double, triple, or dormitory rooms. From October to May, it becomes a perfect space for self-managed groups, such as associations, corporate teams, groups of friends, or seminars. In addition to hospitality, the refuge is also a place for growth and sharing. Throughout the year, it organizes workshops and seminars on holistic, sports, and artistic disciplines, providing a meeting point for those seeking a regenerating and educational experience. Its welcoming environment, with common areas and a large outdoor green area, encourages socialization and connection with nature.