Refuge du Col de Balme
1.7
2,191m
Valle d'Aosta, Italy
About
Refuge du Col de Balme sits at 2,191m on the French border in Valle d'Aosta, accessible from the Vallée de la Trièves side or via the Col de Balme pass from Italy. The standard approach from the Italian side takes 3–4 hours from Gressoney-La-Trinité following the GTA (Grande Traversata delle Alpi). You can also reach it in 2.5 hours from Pila or combine it with traverses to Rifugio Gabiet or Rifugio Città di Vigevano.
The refuge accommodates around 30 people in dormitory beds. Meals are served daily during the open season. Facilities include basic washing arrangements and an outdoor toilet. The hut operates year-round but staffing varies; confirm opening dates before departure. Drinking water is available on-site. Mobile reception is patchy but present.
Book by phone directly with the refuge. Aim to call 48 hours ahead during shoulder season (May–June, September–October). July and August require booking at least 2 weeks in advance. Half-board (bed plus dinner and breakfast) is standard. The refuge is quiet outside high summer, making late spring and September ideal for solitude.
The refuge accommodates around 30 people in dormitory beds. Meals are served daily during the open season. Facilities include basic washing arrangements and an outdoor toilet. The hut operates year-round but staffing varies; confirm opening dates before departure. Drinking water is available on-site. Mobile reception is patchy but present.
Book by phone directly with the refuge. Aim to call 48 hours ahead during shoulder season (May–June, September–October). July and August require booking at least 2 weeks in advance. Half-board (bed plus dinner and breakfast) is standard. The refuge is quiet outside high summer, making late spring and September ideal for solitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during peak season (July–August); call ahead on the phone contact provided. Check rifugi.net or contact the hut directly for availability and current booking procedures.
Typically open June through September, though staffing varies by year; confirm dates before planning your trip by calling ahead or checking the hut's website.
From Gressoney-La-Trinité, allow 3–4 hours following the GTA; alternatively, 2.5 hours from Pila. The hut sits at 2,191m on the French border and is accessible via Col de Balme pass from Italy or from the Vallée de la Trièves side.
The refuge sleeps around 30 people in dormitory beds and serves meals; confirm menu options and any dietary requirements when booking.
It works for fit hikers comfortable with 3–4 hour approaches at 2,191m elevation; families with mountain experience and older children will manage the hike, but it's not ideal for young kids or those new to Alpine hiking.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33607061630
- Website
- https://www.refugeducoldebalme.com/