Technical
About
Bivacco Colombo sits at 3,495m on the eastern flank of the Breithorn massif in the Zillertal Alps. Reach it from Ratschings valley in South Tyrol via the Zillertal hut (2,317m), then traverse northeast across alpine meadows and scree for 4–5 hours. The route crosses exposed terrain above 3,000m and demands mountain experience. Most climbers approach via the Zillertal hut, sleeping there first, then push to the bivouac as a staging point for Breithorn or neighboring peaks.
This is a basic unmanned emergency shelter, not a staffed hut. It sleeps 10–12 in tight quarters on foam mattresses. There is no food, water, or heating. You must carry all supplies, including a stove and fuel for cooking. The bivouac provides wind protection and a roof only. Water availability is seasonal and unpredictable—meltwater may flow nearby in summer, but autumn ascents require you to bring every liter. The building stands open year-round, but winter access is technical and avalanche-prone.
Register with CAI Seregno before your climb. The bivouac is free to use but requires self-sufficiency. Bring a detailed map, compass, and GPS. Summer weekends draw traffic, but numbers remain low due to the altitude and remote location. Check current route conditions with Zillertal hut staff before departure.
This is a basic unmanned emergency shelter, not a staffed hut. It sleeps 10–12 in tight quarters on foam mattresses. There is no food, water, or heating. You must carry all supplies, including a stove and fuel for cooking. The bivouac provides wind protection and a roof only. Water availability is seasonal and unpredictable—meltwater may flow nearby in summer, but autumn ascents require you to bring every liter. The building stands open year-round, but winter access is technical and avalanche-prone.
Register with CAI Seregno before your climb. The bivouac is free to use but requires self-sufficiency. Bring a detailed map, compass, and GPS. Summer weekends draw traffic, but numbers remain low due to the altitude and remote location. Check current route conditions with Zillertal hut staff before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bivacco Colombo is unmanned, so no booking is needed—it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Register your visit with CAI or at Zillertal hut below if possible.
It's open year-round as an unmanned bivouac, but practically accessible only June through September when snow clears the approach. There's no warden.
Start from Ratschings valley, climb to Zillertal hut (2,317m), then traverse northeast across alpine meadows and scree for 4–5 hours to reach 3,495m. The route is exposed and requires mountain experience.
As a basic unmanned bivouac, expect shelter only—no meals, water, or amenities. Bring your own food, water, sleeping bag, and mat.
No—it's for experienced mountaineers only. The 4–5 hour approach crosses exposed terrain above 3,000m and demands solid mountain skills; use Zillertal hut below as a safer alternative.
Location
46.4297, 10.6163
HutLists Score
1.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI CAI Seregno
Contact & Booking
- Website
- http://www.caiseregno.org/rifugio%20longoni%20bivacco%20colombo/bivacco%20colombo.htm
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.