Refuge de Plan Glacier
1.7
2,680m
Valle d'Aosta, Italy
About
Refuge de Plan Glacier sits at 2,680m in the upper Valle d'Aosta, serving hikers on routes toward Gran Paradiso and the surrounding peaks. Reach it from Pont in about 4 hours on foot, gaining 1,200m through open pasture and rocky terrain. The hut lies on the main approach to Gran Paradiso's north ridge and sits within the Gran Paradiso National Park boundary. Summer access is straightforward; winter approaches require avalanche awareness and may need crampons depending on snow cover.
The refuge runs a simple operation with 40 beds split across shared rooms. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is the standard arrangement; packed lunches are available. The kitchen serves solid mountain food—expect polenta, pasta, and local cheeses. Water comes from the glacier itself. Pit toilets and no shower means basic standards, which suits the hut's practical purpose as a working base rather than comfort destination. The refuge operates from June through September.
Book by phone directly with the hut. July and August fill 6–8 weeks ahead, particularly for weekends. June and September have more flexibility. Groups should call at least 2 months in advance. The hut sits close enough to Turin and Milan that weekenders from the city create seasonal pressure. Arrive with cash for small purchases; card payment is limited.
The refuge runs a simple operation with 40 beds split across shared rooms. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is the standard arrangement; packed lunches are available. The kitchen serves solid mountain food—expect polenta, pasta, and local cheeses. Water comes from the glacier itself. Pit toilets and no shower means basic standards, which suits the hut's practical purpose as a working base rather than comfort destination. The refuge operates from June through September.
Book by phone directly with the hut. July and August fill 6–8 weeks ahead, particularly for weekends. June and September have more flexibility. Groups should call at least 2 months in advance. The hut sits close enough to Turin and Milan that weekenders from the city create seasonal pressure. Arrive with cash for small purchases; card payment is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead during July–August peak season; contact the hut directly by phone for availability and rates, or check rifugio.net for online booking options.
Open June through September with full staffing; it may open for shorter periods in May and October depending on snow and staffing, so check ahead if visiting shoulder season.
Hike from Pont in approximately 4 hours, gaining 1,200m through pasture and rocky terrain; summer is straightforward, but winter approach requires avalanche awareness and possibly crampons.
Standard Italian Alpine hut setup: bunk beds in shared dorms, hot meals at dinner and packed lunches available, basic washing facilities (cold water likely; confirm hot water availability when booking).
Suitable for fit hikers comfortable with 4 hours of steady climbing and 1,200m elevation gain; families with strong mountain experience can manage it, but it's not ideal for young children or inexperienced walkers.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 7 78 69 59 05
- Website
- https://planglacier.fr/