Demanding
About
Bivacco Cosimo Zappelli sits at 2,275m in the Gran Paradiso massif, accessed via the Val di Rhêmes north of Aosta. The approach takes 2.5–3 hours from Pont (1,570m). The path climbs steadily through larch forest and alpine meadow, gaining 700m with no steep technical sections. A summer snow crossing may require an ice axe in June. The bivouac stands on the ridge between Mont Emilius and Gran Paradiso, making it a natural staging point for mountaineers.
This is a small, basic shelter with 10 beds in a single dormitory room. There is no restaurant or staffed management. Water comes from a spring nearby. The bivouac has a wood stove for winter use and offers basic protection from the elements. It operates year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and mountain experience. The structure is maintained by local volunteers, so expect rustic accommodation with no frills.
Book by phone ahead of your visit. The bivouac fills quickly in July and August, so contact at least 1–2 weeks in advance if visiting summer weekends. Check access conditions with the hut before heading up in shoulder seasons. Bring your own sleeping bag, food, and stove fuel.
This is a small, basic shelter with 10 beds in a single dormitory room. There is no restaurant or staffed management. Water comes from a spring nearby. The bivouac has a wood stove for winter use and offers basic protection from the elements. It operates year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and mountain experience. The structure is maintained by local volunteers, so expect rustic accommodation with no frills.
Book by phone ahead of your visit. The bivouac fills quickly in July and August, so contact at least 1–2 weeks in advance if visiting summer weekends. Check access conditions with the hut before heading up in shoulder seasons. Bring your own sleeping bag, food, and stove fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–4 weeks ahead during July and August; this is a small 10-bed bivouac that fills quickly. Contact via phone or check rifugi.net for availability.
Open June through September; staffing depends on conditions, so call ahead to confirm someone is present before heading up.
Start from Pont (1,570m) in Val di Rhêmes north of Aosta; the hike is 2.5–3 hours with 700m elevation gain through larch forest and meadow. Expect a possible snow crossing in June requiring an ice axe.
It's a basic 10-bed shelter with no meals, water, or shower facilities—bring a sleeping bag, food, and a stove for cooking.
No—it's designed for mountaineers and experienced hikers accustomed to alpine conditions and self-sufficiency; the altitude, exposed location, and lack of services make it unsuitable for families or casual hikers.
Location
45.6940, 7.0295
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HutLists Score
1.7
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Total
- 10
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0165861908
- Website
- https://www.lovevda.it/it/banca-dati/7/bivacchi/la-salle/bivacco-cosimo-zappelli/3138
Activities
Featured In
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