Bivacco Claudio Brédy
1.0
2,528m
Savoie, France
About
Bivacco Claudio Brédy sits at 2,528m on the Chaîne de la Vanoise, on the border between France and Italy. Access from the French side starts at Pralognan-la-Vanoise. The standard approach takes 4–5 hours via the Lac de la Fontaine route, gaining 1,200m. From the Italian side (Pramolgio valley), the approach is shorter but steeper. This is a mountain pass hut, strategically positioned for traverses across the Vanoise massif. Route choices change the walk considerably—check conditions before heading out.
This is a true bivacco (emergency shelter), not a staffed refuge. It sleeps roughly 6–8 people on a basic internal platform with no amenities. There is no warden, electricity, running water, or meals provided. Bring a stove, fuel, water, and a sleeping bag. The shelter offers protection from wind and weather and is used primarily by mountaineers crossing between France and Italy. Winter and spring access requires avalanche awareness and mountaineering skills.
The bivacco is always open and free. It belongs to the Società Nazionale di Soccorso Alpino (CNSAS) on the Italian side. Treat it as a self-service shelter: leave it clean, report any structural damage to local mountain rescue, and camp outside if it's full. There is no booking system or warden contact. Stock supplies (fuel, water, food) before you leave the last village.
This is a true bivacco (emergency shelter), not a staffed refuge. It sleeps roughly 6–8 people on a basic internal platform with no amenities. There is no warden, electricity, running water, or meals provided. Bring a stove, fuel, water, and a sleeping bag. The shelter offers protection from wind and weather and is used primarily by mountaineers crossing between France and Italy. Winter and spring access requires avalanche awareness and mountaineering skills.
The bivacco is always open and free. It belongs to the Società Nazionale di Soccorso Alpino (CNSAS) on the Italian side. Treat it as a self-service shelter: leave it clean, report any structural damage to local mountain rescue, and camp outside if it's full. There is no booking system or warden contact. Stock supplies (fuel, water, food) before you leave the last village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the guardian directly well ahead of your visit; this is a small bivacco with limited capacity, so confirm availability early, especially for summer weekends.
The bivacco is staffed seasonally from late June through September, depending on snow conditions and staffing.
From Pralognan-la-Vanoise, allow 4–5 hours via the Lac de la Fontaine route, gaining 1,200m; the Italian approach from Pramolgio is shorter but steeper.
As a small bivacco, expect basic shelter, a stove, and sleeping space, but no meals or running water—bring all food and fuel.
No; the 1,200m gain and high elevation demand mountain fitness and route-finding skills; experienced Alpine hikers only.
Quick Facts
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Facilities
Contact & Booking
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