Les Roches Blanches
1.3
Piedmont, Italy
About
Les Roches Blanches sits at 2,566m on the border between Piedmont and Liguria, reached via the Val Gesso from Terme di Valdieri in the Maritime Alps. The standard approach takes 4–5 hours from the roadhead, following a well-marked trail past alpine meadows and scree slopes. Most parties arrive via the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi), which passes directly by the hut. Winter access is restricted; the hut closes November to May.
The refuge holds 50 places in shared dorms. Meals are basic but filling—expect pasta, polenta, and local cheese. The hut has no electricity and no hot showers; water comes from a spring. You'll sleep under wool blankets on straw mattresses. Half and full board are standard. The kitchen staff are friendly and used to walkers passing through on multi-day traverses.
Book directly with the hut by phone (+39 0171 867800) or arrive without reservation outside peak season. July and August require booking 3–4 weeks ahead. The hut is run by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) and is a classic stop on the GTA; many hikers treat it as a single overnight between the Pian delle Nere refuge to the north and Rifugio Borels to the south. Arrive by early afternoon to secure water and light before dark.
The refuge holds 50 places in shared dorms. Meals are basic but filling—expect pasta, polenta, and local cheese. The hut has no electricity and no hot showers; water comes from a spring. You'll sleep under wool blankets on straw mattresses. Half and full board are standard. The kitchen staff are friendly and used to walkers passing through on multi-day traverses.
Book directly with the hut by phone (+39 0171 867800) or arrive without reservation outside peak season. July and August require booking 3–4 weeks ahead. The hut is run by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) and is a classic stop on the GTA; many hikers treat it as a single overnight between the Pian delle Nere refuge to the north and Rifugio Borels to the south. Arrive by early afternoon to secure water and light before dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead during July and August, especially if you're on the GTA; weekdays are less crowded. Check rifugi.net or contact the hut directly for availability.
Open June to October; closed November to May due to winter conditions. The hut is fully staffed during summer months.
Start from Terme di Valdieri roadhead in Val Gesso and follow the marked trail for 4–5 hours; the hut sits directly on the GTA if you're doing that traverse.
50 beds in shared dorms, basic meals (dinner and breakfast), and water available; shower facilities are limited, so plan accordingly.
It's suitable for fit hikers comfortable with 4–5 hours on a well-marked alpine trail with some scree; families with mountain experience will manage fine, but it's not a beginner's first hut.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website