Refuge du Col de Thorens
1.4
Piedmont, Italy
About
Refuge du Col de Thorens sits at 2,556m on the Col de Thorens, a high pass between the Gran Paradiso massif and the Gressoney valley in Piedmont. Approach from the south via Pont and the Vallone di Gressoney in roughly 5 hours. From the north, the route from Gressoney-La-Trinité takes 4–5 hours. Both approaches gain significant elevation and demand strong legs. Snow lingers into June, so check conditions before attempting spring crossings.
The refuge offers 60 beds across shared dormitories and private rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen serves solid mountain fare using local ingredients. Hot showers are available. The hut operates year-round, though winter access is severely restricted and weather-dependent. Summer brings regular use from mountaineers heading to Gran Paradiso (4,061m) and day-hikers crossing between valleys. The position makes it a natural staging point for traverses rather than a destination in itself.
Book directly through the refuge by phone or email at least 2 weeks ahead during July and August. Weekends fill quickly. The hut lies within CAI territory; CAI members may receive modest discounts. Access via rifugio.it or the hut's own website for current availability and rates. Winter bookings require advance warning and confirmation of staff presence.
The refuge offers 60 beds across shared dormitories and private rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen serves solid mountain fare using local ingredients. Hot showers are available. The hut operates year-round, though winter access is severely restricted and weather-dependent. Summer brings regular use from mountaineers heading to Gran Paradiso (4,061m) and day-hikers crossing between valleys. The position makes it a natural staging point for traverses rather than a destination in itself.
Book directly through the refuge by phone or email at least 2 weeks ahead during July and August. Weekends fill quickly. The hut lies within CAI territory; CAI members may receive modest discounts. Access via rifugio.it or the hut's own website for current availability and rates. Winter bookings require advance warning and confirmation of staff presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August), especially for weekends. Contact the refuge directly or use rifugio.net; check if they're affiliated with CAI or SAT for member discounts.
Typically open June through September, depending on snow conditions; call ahead in early June as snow can block access into late May or early June.
From the south via Pont and Vallone di Gressoney takes roughly 5 hours; from the north via Gressoney-La-Trinité takes 4–5 hours. Both routes gain significant elevation and demand solid fitness.
60 beds in shared dormitories, meals served (confirm dinner/breakfast availability when booking), basic washing facilities; bring a towel and expect cold water or limited hot water.
Not ideal for beginners—the approaches are long, steep, and at high altitude; best suited to experienced hikers and mountaineers accustomed to sustained elevation gain and Alpine terrain.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website