Bivacco Piero Vacca
1.5About
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for summer; this is a small bivouac with only 15 beds and fills quickly during July–August.
Summer season June to September, depending on snow and access conditions; staffing is minimal or self-service—confirm current status with local guides or Chamonix hut services.
From Chamonix via Vallée Blanche or from Courmayeur on the Italian side; allow 5–6 hours of mixed scrambling, rock, and glacier terrain—glacier experience and mountain fitness essential.
15 beds in basic dormitory style, wood stove for heat, and cooking equipment available; bring your own food and fuel.
No—this bivouac demands glacier experience, solid mountaineering skills, and high fitness; it's not suitable for walkers or families.
Location
45.1927, 6.9471
Plan your visit
Get directionsNeed a hotel nearby?
Staying in Savoie before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in SavoieBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
1.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Total
- 15
Activities
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.