Bivouac Bartolomeo Longa
1.1Bivacco Bartolomeo Longa
Piedmont, Italy
About
Bivacco Bartolomeo Longa sits at 3,015m on the northeast ridge of Monte Rosa, in the Macugnaga valley of Piedmont. Reach it via the Sesia Valley trail from Macugnaga village (1,327m). The approach takes 4–5 hours of steady climbing through Alpine meadows, then scree. This is a working hut for climbers attempting Monte Rosa's northeast face and surrounding peaks.
The bivouac is a small, unguarded refuge with basic shelter only. It sleeps around 12 people on a first-come basis in a single room with bunks. There is no guardian (rifugista), no meals, and no running water—bring a stove, fuel, and all food. The hut stands open year-round, but practical access is May through September. Winter ascents are serious mountaineering affairs requiring winter gear and navigation skills.
Book through CAI Macugnaga directly via cai.it or contact the Macugnaga section. The bivouac fills quickly during July and August, especially weekends. Arrive early in the day or camp nearby. This hut suits experienced Alpine hikers and mountaineers only—it is not a destination for casual walkers or those expecting services.
The bivouac is a small, unguarded refuge with basic shelter only. It sleeps around 12 people on a first-come basis in a single room with bunks. There is no guardian (rifugista), no meals, and no running water—bring a stove, fuel, and all food. The hut stands open year-round, but practical access is May through September. Winter ascents are serious mountaineering affairs requiring winter gear and navigation skills.
Book through CAI Macugnaga directly via cai.it or contact the Macugnaga section. The bivouac fills quickly during July and August, especially weekends. Arrive early in the day or camp nearby. This hut suits experienced Alpine hikers and mountaineers only—it is not a destination for casual walkers or those expecting services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Booking isn't possible—this is an unguarded bivouac, so arrive early and claim a spot on a first-come basis. Expect it to fill quickly during July–August.
Typically June through September, depending on snow conditions and access. Check conditions with CAI Macugnaga or rifugi.net before heading up.
Start from Macugnaga village (1,327m) and follow the Sesia Valley trail; the 4–5 hour ascent covers 1,688m of elevation gain through Alpine meadows and scree to 3,015m.
Basic shelter only—no meals, no running water, no heating. Bring a sleeping bag, food, stove, and all gear; this is a climber's shelter, not a staffed hut.
No—this bivouac is for experienced mountaineers only. The high altitude, exposed terrain, and lack of facilities make it unsuitable for families or inexperienced hikers.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
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- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website