Bivacco Mario Gontier

1.0
2,310m Savoie, France
Demanding

About

Bivacco Mario Gontier sits at 2,310m on the border between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont. The approach depends on your starting point, but most routes take 4–6 hours from the valley floor. This is a working bivouac, not a full service hut, so expect basic conditions and self-sufficiency. It serves as a launch point for mountaineering objectives in this section of the Alps and sits well on longer trekking routes crossing the region.

The bivouac has 12 beds split across two small rooms. There is no guardian and no meals provided. You'll find water from a nearby spring and a basic stove for cooking. The shelter is open year-round, though winter access requires winter mountaineering skills and proper equipment. Conditions can be harsh at this elevation, especially October through May. This is genuinely alpine accommodation—go here because you need a base for climbing or trekking, not for comfort.

Contact the FFCAM section managing the hut or call ahead to confirm access and current conditions, especially outside summer. July and August see the most traffic. The hut fills quickly during good weather windows, so don't assume you can arrive and find space. Bring a sleeping bag and mat. Expect to carry water and food. Leave the bivouac clean and carry out all rubbish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact by phone directly—it's a small bivouac with only 12 beds, so book as early as possible, especially for summer weekends.
Typically open June to September, but confirm dates by phone since it's staffed seasonally and weather-dependent.
Most routes take 4–6 hours from the valley floor; your approach depends on your starting point, so check current conditions and trail access before heading up.
It's a basic bivouac with 12 beds in two small rooms—bring a sleeping bag, expect no showers, and be prepared to cook your own food or bring supplies.
No—this is a working bivouac for experienced hikers and mountaineers; the 4–6 hour approach and basic conditions are not suitable for casual walkers or families.

Quick Facts

Season
Total
12
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Contact & Booking

Email
Phone
+39 0165 902259
Website