About
Rifugio di Viviere sits at 2,055m in the Cottian Alps above the Val Maira in Piedmont. Approach from Prazzo village via the Pian del Lupo trail, a steady 3-hour climb through larch forest and alpine pasture. The hut serves as a base for ridge traverses to Rocca della Provisiera (2,650m) and access to the cross-border hiking routes into France. The location works for summer day trips or as a staging post on multi-day routes through the southern Cottian summits.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps 30 guests in mixed dormitories. The kitchen serves full evening meals and packed lunches. Water comes from the spring nearby. Facilities are basic but functional: gas heating, pit toilet, cold-water washroom. Evening meals feature traditional Piedmont cuisine. The hut lies outside the main CAI network but maintains consistent opening dates and conditions.
Phone ahead to reserve, especially for weekends and July–August. The hut fills with French hikers during French school holidays in August. Contact direct by phone rather than email for fastest response. Solo hikers can often find a bed same-day, but groups of six or more should book at least two weeks ahead. The hut closes briefly in late November for maintenance.
The rifugio operates year-round and sleeps 30 guests in mixed dormitories. The kitchen serves full evening meals and packed lunches. Water comes from the spring nearby. Facilities are basic but functional: gas heating, pit toilet, cold-water washroom. Evening meals feature traditional Piedmont cuisine. The hut lies outside the main CAI network but maintains consistent opening dates and conditions.
Phone ahead to reserve, especially for weekends and July–August. The hut fills with French hikers during French school holidays in August. Contact direct by phone rather than email for fastest response. Solo hikers can often find a bed same-day, but groups of six or more should book at least two weeks ahead. The hut closes briefly in late November for maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends and peak season (July-August); weekday visits usually have availability with shorter notice. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for real-time availability.
The rifugio operates year-round, though staffing and services are reduced in winter—confirm current conditions before visiting November through March.
Start from Prazzo village and follow the Pian del Lupo trail; it's a steady 3-hour climb through larch forest and alpine pasture to the hut at 2,055m.
Standard rifugio fare with dinner and breakfast provided; expect bunk beds and basic amenities—ask when booking about shower availability and meal options.
The 3-hour approach is manageable for fit families with some hiking experience; it works well as a base for day trips to Rocca della Provisiera (2,650m) rather than technical climbing, making it accessible for competent hill walkers.
Location
44.4358, 6.9860
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Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
3.3
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0171 1936074
- Website
- http://www.rifugiodiviviere.com
Activities
Featured In
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