History

History

A little history

The San Rocco Community Cooperative

Since 2023, the Rifugio dell’Aquila has been proudly managed by the San Rocco Community Cooperative.
Officially founded on September 10, 2021, by a group of passionate individuals, the cooperative is dedicated to fostering local projects and safeguarding essential community services. Its mission is to create transformative cultural, social, and economic pathways that benefit both residents and visitors, enhancing both material and immaterial relationships to cultivate more fulfilling life and work experiences.

The Rifugio dell’Aquila, which opened in 2012, was originally developed and managed by the Sacchini family – Enzo, Silvia, and Mara – for the first ten years.

In the photo (from left).
– Seated: Vittorio Bigoi, President of the San Rocco Community Cooperative; Mara and Enzo Sacchini
Standing: Andrea Dallari, new Director of the Rifugio dell’Aquila; Silvia Sacchini with young Azzurra.

The historical memory of the territory

Located at an elevation of 1,000 meters and spanning 30,000 square meters of forested land, the Rifugio is deeply rooted in the history of the area. The property sits within a sustainable initiative to revitalize the “Cantiere”, an artisan district created in the early 1900s to support the hydroelectric plant, that once served as the heart of the local economy and community life.
In 2007, the electricity company that owned the “Cantiere” district ceased operations, and the municipality decided to auction off the area. This sale required the development of an open-air accommodation facility that adhered to the original architectural design. After four years of careful construction, the Rifugio dell’Aquila officially opened its doors in 2012.

Sustainable Architecture

Designed with sustainability at its core, the Rifugio dell’Aquila incorporates the restoration of old terraces and the preservation of the original building layouts. The new wooden structures significantly reduce the environmental impact while enhancing comfort for guests.

During the design phase, energy conservation was a top priority, leading to a heating solution powered by two primary sources: a wood-chip boiler and a highly efficient district heating network.

To further promote sustainability and accessibility, the entire complex is designed without architectural barriers, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the beauty of this natural retreat.

The structure

Rifugio dell’Aquila is more than just a hotel, it’s a true mountain village:

  • A hotel with 28 rooms of varying sizes, offering nearly 100 beds.
  • 14 fully equipped chalets, each with two double/twin bedrooms, a kitchen, living room with sofa bed, bathroom, and veranda, providing a total of 70 beds.
  • A restaurant that can accommodate up to 200 people.
  • A spacious terrace with panoramic views of the Ozola Valley.
  • A 300 m² wellness area, featuring a swimming pool and expansive outdoor spaces for relaxation.
  • A meeting room that can accommodate up to 40 people for events and conferences.