Rifugio Elena
1.7
2,055m
Haute-Savoie, France
About
Rifugio Elena sits at 2,055m in the Cottian Alps on the Italian side of the border. From Bardonecchia, take the cable car to Plan del Sole (1,970m), then walk 45 minutes to reach the hut via a clear mountain path. Alternative approach: hike 3.5 hours from Melezet valley. The hut serves as a strong base for day walks in the surrounding peaks and is accessible to reasonably fit hikers without technical climbing experience.
The rifugio has 127 beds across multiple dormitory rooms and a few private rooms. Half board (bed, breakfast, evening meal) is standard. The kitchen serves regional Piedmont cooking with good pasta and meat dishes. Showers are available. The hut operates from June to September reliably, with limited weekday opening in shoulder months. Winter opening is sporadic—confirm before planning. Strong mobile signal means you can book or call ahead from lower elevations if needed.
Book by email or phone at least 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and good weather windows. Midweek slots are easier to secure. Contact directly to check current rates and meal options, and confirm opening dates if you're planning outside peak season. The hut management prefers direct contact over third-party booking platforms.
The rifugio has 127 beds across multiple dormitory rooms and a few private rooms. Half board (bed, breakfast, evening meal) is standard. The kitchen serves regional Piedmont cooking with good pasta and meat dishes. Showers are available. The hut operates from June to September reliably, with limited weekday opening in shoulder months. Winter opening is sporadic—confirm before planning. Strong mobile signal means you can book or call ahead from lower elevations if needed.
Book by email or phone at least 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and good weather windows. Midweek slots are easier to secure. Contact directly to check current rates and meal options, and confirm opening dates if you're planning outside peak season. The hut management prefers direct contact over third-party booking platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; email or call directly to check availability and confirm your stay.
Rifugio Elena is typically open June to September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions—contact them to confirm current season status.
Take the cable car from Bardonecchia to Plan del Sole (1,970m), then walk 45 minutes on a clear path; alternatively, hike 3.5 hours from Melezet valley.
127 beds in dormitories and a few private rooms; the hut serves meals (half-board or full-board typically available—confirm when booking).
Yes, it's accessible to reasonably fit hikers without technical climbing experience; the approaches are straightforward and it's a good base for day walks in the Cottian Alps.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 127
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0165 844688
- Website
- http://www.rifugioelena.it