Bivacco San Camillo

Bivacco San Camillo sits at 2,735m on the Italian border in the Haute-Maurienne, accessed from the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The approach from Bessans takes 4–5 hours and gains 1,200m through rough terrain: follow the GR5 towards Lac de la Plagne, then branch northeast toward Col de la Loze and traverse the high plateaus. This is not a hiking trail in the standard sense. Crampons and an ice axe are essential in spring and early summer. In good snow-free conditions (July–September), the route is technically straightforward but exposed and unmarked in places. The hut sits in the transitional zone between the Parc National de la Vanoise and Italian Alps terrain.
The bivacco operates as a simple staffed refuge from June through September, though conditions can force earlier or later closures. It holds 18 beds across dormitories and one private room. Meals and hot drinks are available; bring cash (no card payment). The building offers basic shelter, a wood stove, and a water source. There is no WiFi, electricity is minimal, and facilities are spartan—this is a working mountaineer's base, not a comfort hut. Most visitors climb nearby 3,000m+ peaks (Mont Iseran approaches, Oisans traverses) or use it as a waypoint on high-altitude ski touring or GR5 variants.
Book through the managing FFCAM section or contact the warden directly several weeks ahead for July and August. Winter access is possible for experienced parties with proper equipment and local knowledge, but the hut may not be staffed. Confirm opening dates and warden presence before traveling.