Moderate
About
Rifugio Soria Ellena sits at 1,840m in the Lanzo Valley, above the village of Usseglio in Piedmont. The standard approach is 2 hours from Usseglio (950m), following a well-marked trail through mixed forest and pasture. You gain 900m steadily without technical difficulty. Other approaches reach the hut from the Colle del Nivolet side or via the Passo della Balma, both adding 3–4 hours from their respective trailheads. The location works well as a base for day hikes in the Graian Alps or as a waypoint on longer valley traverses.
The hut sleeps around 30 people in mixed dormitory rooms. Meals focus on Piedmont regional cooking—expect polenta, local cheeses, and hearty soups. The kitchen provides half-board and packed lunches. Water comes from mountain springs. Toilets are basic. The rifugio is open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and you should confirm availability before heading up. The setting is quiet, with few day visitors compared to huts on busier ridges.
Contact the hut directly by email or phone to book. Summer weekends and August fill early—book 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August. Weekday slots in June, September, and early October are easier to secure. The hut can usually accommodate unannounced arrivals on weekdays outside peak season, but expect refusal during school holidays and festival weekends. Confirm opening dates and staffing before planning a winter visit.
The hut sleeps around 30 people in mixed dormitory rooms. Meals focus on Piedmont regional cooking—expect polenta, local cheeses, and hearty soups. The kitchen provides half-board and packed lunches. Water comes from mountain springs. Toilets are basic. The rifugio is open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and you should confirm availability before heading up. The setting is quiet, with few day visitors compared to huts on busier ridges.
Contact the hut directly by email or phone to book. Summer weekends and August fill early—book 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August. Weekday slots in June, September, and early October are easier to secure. The hut can usually accommodate unannounced arrivals on weekdays outside peak season, but expect refusal during school holidays and festival weekends. Confirm opening dates and staffing before planning a winter visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak summer weekends; weekdays and shoulder season (June, September) are more flexible. Contact the hut directly by phone to confirm availability and rates.
The hut is staffed during summer months (typically June–September), though exact opening and closing dates vary by year. Check with the hut directly for current operating dates.
The main approach from Usseglio (950m) takes 2 hours and gains 900m via a well-marked trail through forest and pasture with no technical difficulty. Alternate routes from Colle del Nivolet or Passo della Balma add 3–4 hours.
The hut has 40 beds and serves meals (typically dinner and breakfast); confirm shower availability and any other facilities when you book by phone.
Yes—the main approach is moderate and non-technical, making it suitable for fit hikers with Alpine experience and families with confident young hikers. It works well as a base for day hikes in the Graian Alps.
Location
44.1400, 7.3641
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Piedmont before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in PiedmontBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
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
5.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
- Jun 15-Sep 15 00:00-24:00
- Total
- 40
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0171 978382
- Website
- https://rifugiosoria.com/
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.