Refuge de Presset

1.6
2,514m Valle d'Aosta, Italy
Demanding

About

Refuge de Presset sits at 2,514m in the Valle d'Aosta, on the border between Italy and France. Reach it from the Lilaz valley near Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval on the French side, or via Italian approach routes from Valgrisenche. Most hikers access it from France: the walk from Sixt takes 3–4 hours and gains roughly 1,000m elevation. The hut serves walkers crossing between valleys and climbers approaching Mont-Blanc massif peaks.

The refuge holds 30 beds across simple dorm rooms. It runs a small kitchen and serves dinner and breakfast; bring snacks and water purification tablets for the approach. Water is available at the hut. The building operates seasonally—typically June through September, weather dependent. Conditions above 2,500m shift fast in this region, so check forecast before setting out.

Phone ahead to book beds, especially for weekends and July–August. The hut staff speak French and Italian; confirm availability and meal times when you call. This refuge fills quickly during the Mont-Blanc circuit season. Arrive in the afternoon to settle before dinner service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2–3 weeks ahead during July–August, especially if you're part of a group; call the hut directly or check rifugio.it/cai.it for availability and reservation details.
The hut typically operates June through September; confirm exact dates by phone before planning your trip, as staffing depends on weather and demand.
From Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval (France) allow 3–4 hours with 1,000m elevation gain; Italian approach from Valgrisenche takes longer—ask the hut for current route conditions and timing.
You get a bed in a dorm room and simple meals cooked on-site; confirm what's available (breakfast, dinner) and dietary needs when you book, as capacity is only 30 beds.
It suits fit hikers and mountaineers; the 3–4 hour approach from France is manageable for experienced hill-walkers but demanding for families with young children or inexperienced hikers.

Quick Facts

Managing club
FFCAM
Season
Total
30
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Breakfast Meals served Drinking water

Contact & Booking

Email
Phone
+33 6 87 54 09 18
Website
https://refugedepresset.ffcam.fr/