Moderate
About
Rifugio Gattascosa sits at 1,993m in the Cottian Alps, a solid base for day hikes across the Po Valley watershed. The hut sits at the head of the Val Gesso d'Oulx, reached via the hamlet of Oulx in the upper Stura Valley. Approach takes 3 hours from Oulx, gaining 800m on a marked path through beech and larch forest. The final section crosses open slopes with views south toward Mont Viso.
The rifugio operates as a working mountain refuge with 30 beds spread across simple dorms. Hot meals and packed lunches are available. Drinking water comes from a spring, and flush toilets are standard. The kitchen can cater to groups if given notice. Season runs June through September, with staffing dependent on weekend traffic. Mid-week visits are quieter.
Call ahead to reserve a bed, especially in July and August. The hut keeps basic hours—expect closure on some weekdays out of peak season. This is a working refuge without frills, suited to hikers using it as a staging point rather than a destination. Cell reception is unreliable; phone from Oulx if the hut line doesn't connect.
The rifugio operates as a working mountain refuge with 30 beds spread across simple dorms. Hot meals and packed lunches are available. Drinking water comes from a spring, and flush toilets are standard. The kitchen can cater to groups if given notice. Season runs June through September, with staffing dependent on weekend traffic. Mid-week visits are quieter.
Call ahead to reserve a bed, especially in July and August. The hut keeps basic hours—expect closure on some weekdays out of peak season. This is a working refuge without frills, suited to hikers using it as a staging point rather than a destination. Cell reception is unreliable; phone from Oulx if the hut line doesn't connect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead for weekends, especially in summer; weekdays are usually flexible. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open June through September, weather dependent; confirm current dates by calling ahead as shoulder season varies year to year.
Start from Oulx hamlet in the upper Stura Valley; the marked path takes 3 hours and climbs 800m through beech and larch forest to 1,993m.
Hot meals provided; 30 beds in simple dorms with basic mountain hut amenities—expect no frills but reliable food and shelter.
Yes, for fit beginners comfortable with a 3-hour approach and basic dorm conditions; not ideal for young children due to elevation gain and remoteness.
Location
46.1565, 8.1585
HutLists Score
5.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Flush toilets
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 328 3151669
- Website
- https://www.rifugiogattascosa.com/
Featured In
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