About
Rifugio Ciao Pais sits at 2,612m in the Cottian Alps, reached from the Vallone della Traversette. Most parties approach from Casteldelfino in around 4 hours via the Pian della Regina. The hut lies on the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi) long-distance route and works as a staging point between lower valleys and higher passes.
The rifugio has 40 beds across shared rooms. Meals are served at set times; half-board is standard and dinner features local Piedmont specialities. The kitchen provides packed lunches. Water comes from a spring. There's no heating beyond the common room stove, so nights are cold even in summer. The season runs June through September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions. Mobile signal is weak—check before you leave.
Book directly by phone, especially for weekends and July-August when the hut fills quickly. The hut manager speaks Italian primarily. Call at least 2 weeks ahead for July, 1 week for June and September. Bring cash; card payment is unreliable at this elevation. The hut sits on CAI routes and welcomes members of alpine clubs with reciprocal agreements.
The rifugio has 40 beds across shared rooms. Meals are served at set times; half-board is standard and dinner features local Piedmont specialities. The kitchen provides packed lunches. Water comes from a spring. There's no heating beyond the common room stove, so nights are cold even in summer. The season runs June through September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions. Mobile signal is weak—check before you leave.
Book directly by phone, especially for weekends and July-August when the hut fills quickly. The hut manager speaks Italian primarily. Call at least 2 weeks ahead for July, 1 week for June and September. Bring cash; card payment is unreliable at this elevation. The hut sits on CAI routes and welcomes members of alpine clubs with reciprocal agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July–August; shoulder season (June, September) needs 1–2 weeks. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability and half-board rates.
Typically open June through September, depending on snow and staffing; confirm dates before travel as Piedmont huts often close earlier than southern Alpine regions.
Start from Casteldelfino, take the Pian della Regina route via Vallone della Traversette; allow 4 hours for the approach at 2,612m elevation gain. The hut sits on the GTA long-distance trail.
40 beds in shared rooms; half-board is standard with dinner featuring local Piedmont dishes served at set times. Confirm shower availability when booking—many huts at this elevation have limited hot water.
The 4-hour approach from Casteldelfino suits fit hikers with Alpine experience, not beginners; it's best for those working the GTA or moving between valleys rather than families on day trips.
Location
45.0189, 6.8765
HutLists Score
2.7
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Total
- 40
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0122 850280
- Website
- https://www.ciaopais.it/
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.