Bivacco Piero Vacca

Bivacco Piero Vacca sits at 2670m on the border between Savoie and Italy, offering direct access to peaks in the Mont-Blanc massif. Reach it from Chamonix via the Vallée Blanche or from the Italian side near Courmayeur. From Chamonix, allow 5–6 hours of mixed terrain: ski touring in winter, scrambling and rock in summer. The approach demands glacier experience and mountain fitness. This is not a walkers' hut.
The bivouac sleeps 15 in basic dormitory conditions. It has a wood stove, cooking equipment, and mattresses; bring your own sleeping bag and food. Water comes from meltwater sources—reliability varies by season. There is no guardian and no meals provided. The hut operates year-round but is most accessible June to September. Winter and spring access requires avalanche awareness and ski mountaineering skills.
This is a working hut for serious mountaineers tackling the Mont-Blanc circuit, Gran Paradiso crossings, or Mont-Blanc traverse variants. Book ahead by contacting the managing FFCAM section or the Chamonix Bureau des Guides. Plan to arrive with full autonomy: stove fuel, food, water containers, and headtorches. July and August demand advance coordination. Expect cold nights and no frills—come prepared for genuine alpine shelter, not comfort.