Refuge de Chalin
1.7
2,595m
Piedmont, Italy
About
Rifugio Chalin sits at 2,595m in the Cottian Alps on the border between Piedmont and France. Access is from the Valle dell'Infernotto via a steep 4–5 hour climb from Castello di Demonte (1,738m). The hut works as a high camp for mountaineers crossing into the Queyras massif and for walkers on the high routes linking the upper Maira valley.
The rifugio is small and basic. Eight beds across multiple rooms. The self-catering kitchen means you bring your own food—there's no cooked meal service. Water comes from a spring near the building. Toilet facilities are outside. The hut is typically open June through September depending on snow melt and weather. This is genuine Alpine shelter, not a staffed restaurant hut.
Phone ahead to confirm availability before making the long approach. Call directly to reserve beds. Expect crowded weekends in July and August. October snow can arrive suddenly, so check conditions with CAI Cuneo before heading up. The approach is steep and exposed in places—only suitable if you're comfortable scrambling on loose terrain and finding your way on faint paths.
The rifugio is small and basic. Eight beds across multiple rooms. The self-catering kitchen means you bring your own food—there's no cooked meal service. Water comes from a spring near the building. Toilet facilities are outside. The hut is typically open June through September depending on snow melt and weather. This is genuine Alpine shelter, not a staffed restaurant hut.
Phone ahead to confirm availability before making the long approach. Call directly to reserve beds. Expect crowded weekends in July and August. October snow can arrive suddenly, so check conditions with CAI Cuneo before heading up. The approach is steep and exposed in places—only suitable if you're comfortable scrambling on loose terrain and finding your way on faint paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July–August, especially if you're part of a group; with only 8 beds, it fills quickly. Contact them directly by phone to confirm availability and arrangements since this is a small, basic refuge without online booking systems.
Open summer months typically June to September, depending on snow conditions at 2,595m; confirm exact dates by calling ahead, as staffing at this elevation can be weather-dependent.
Hike from Castello di Demonte (1,738m) up the Valle dell'Infernotto via steep terrain in 4–5 hours, gaining 857m elevation. This is the main access route for mountaineers and high-route walkers.
It's self-catering only—bring your own food and cook in the shared kitchen; there's no hot meal service. Expect basic mountain accommodation: 8 beds in multiple rooms, running water, but minimal amenities at this working altitude.
No—the 4–5 hour steep climb and self-catering setup make it unsuitable for families or inexperienced hikers. It's designed as a high camp for fit mountaineers crossing into France or tackling Cottian Alps routes.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- 8
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Self catering
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +41 24 466 31 24
- Website
- https://www.cas-chaussy.ch/