Refugio duca degli abruzzi orionde

Easy hike from Cervinia to the base of the Cervino (matterhorn).  The hike can be extended to a difficult one , as one can leave from Cervinia and get to Plateau Maison walking. We decided to take the cable car for this part , as its was the last of our 7 days hiking holiday and wanted to relax. Cable car can be taken from Cervinia - Plateau mason and costs around 11 eur roundtrip. From Plateau Maison  (2500m ) you can take the path to the lakes or go towards the Refugio Orionde (2800 m ). Path first goes through the ski slopes , then starts going up on gravel , really below the melting glacier of the Cervino.  No vegetation - just rocks- and imposing Cervino on one side- and glaciers and Plateau Rosa (famous ski station even in summer - going to the Zermatt side) . Great view on the several lakes and waterfalls- and with clear weather one can even spot  Gran Paradiso glacier. The refuge offers drinks and food- places to relax outside . There is an optional path to a view point 30 min walk up from the refuge. The way back is on the same path- can also descend till Cervinia or take the cable car down. Lots of options and shops are available in Cervinia.  The starting point is available by car- there is a free big parking.