Refuge de Mayen
1.4
Piedmont, Italy
About
Refuge de Mayen sits at 2,050m on the western slopes of Monte Rosa, in the Val d'Ayas in Piedmont's Aosta Valley. Reach it from Champoluc in 2.5 hours via a well-marked trail that climbs steadily through larch forest and alpine meadows. The approach is straightforward and accessible to competent day-hikers, though a winter approach requires snowshoe experience.
The refuge holds 40 beds across simple but clean dormitories. Half-board is standard—evening meals are hearty mountain cooking, breakfasts fuel the next day. The hut operates self-catering outside peak season. A small bar serves hot drinks and basic supplies. Toilets are basic; the water source is reliable. The hut is open June to September and weekends in May and October, depending on snow conditions.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email at least 3–4 weeks ahead during July and August. The refuge sits on the main hiking route to Carestia and Loo, which means weekends draw crowds. Mid-week visits are quieter. This is solid climbing and trekking base camp—a place to sleep and eat between high-altitude days, not a destination for amenities.
The refuge holds 40 beds across simple but clean dormitories. Half-board is standard—evening meals are hearty mountain cooking, breakfasts fuel the next day. The hut operates self-catering outside peak season. A small bar serves hot drinks and basic supplies. Toilets are basic; the water source is reliable. The hut is open June to September and weekends in May and October, depending on snow conditions.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email at least 3–4 weeks ahead during July and August. The refuge sits on the main hiking route to Carestia and Loo, which means weekends draw crowds. Mid-week visits are quieter. This is solid climbing and trekking base camp—a place to sleep and eat between high-altitude days, not a destination for amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends and peak summer (July-August), or check rifugio.net and cai.it for last-minute availability. Weekday visits in shoulder season can often be arranged with a few days' notice.
The refuge typically operates June through September for reliable staffing and access; winter access via snowshoe is possible but requires checking with the hut directly beforehand.
Start from Champoluc and follow the marked trail ascending through larch forest and alpine meadows to the refuge at 2,050m—allow 2.5 hours for the approach.
The refuge has 40 beds in simple dormitories, with half-board (dinner and breakfast) included; expect traditional mountain cuisine and basic but functional accommodation.
Yes—the well-marked trail from Champoluc is accessible to competent day-hikers and families with mountain experience, though the 2.5-hour climb and 2,050m altitude mean children should have some hiking background.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- 40
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website