Bar Planel

Bar Planel sits at 2,263m in the Albula Alps above the Prättigau valley. Reach it from Schiers in about 4 hours on foot, heading southeast through forest then open meadow. The hut is also accessible from the Schanfigg valley in 3.5 hours via Tschuggen. Most hikers approach it as a stage on the Albula Alps traverse or use it as a base for day walks in the area.

The hut has 30 beds spread across dormitories and a handful of twin rooms. Meals feature substantial Alpine cooking—expect hearty vegetable soups, pasta, and meat dishes sourced locally when possible. Water comes from the spring outside. The SAC (Swiss Alpine Club) manages the hut and opens it from late May through October, with weekends sometimes staffed in May and September. There's no electricity; lighting runs on gas. The hut sits well above the tree line with views east toward the Säntis massif.

Book directly with the hut keeper in advance, especially for weekends and July-August when it fills fast. Email is the most reliable contact method. During peak summer, book 4-6 weeks ahead. The hut can accommodate groups on request. Winter access is unreliable—contact before planning any off-season visit.