Ricovero Ten. Cucco
1.7About
Ricovero Ten. Cucco sits at 2373m in the Gran Paradiso massif, serving climbers and walkers crossing between the Valsavarenche and Valgrisanche valleys. The hut stands on the Col Cucco pass, a key transit point for ascents of Gran Paradiso itself (4061m). Reach it in 4–5 hours from the Pont hamlet via Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, or in 3–4 hours from Gimillan in Valgrisanche. Both approaches gain 1400–1600m and follow cairned paths through open terrain.
This is a basic refuge with 10–12 places in a mix of dormitory and smaller rooms. The guardian offers simple dinners and breakfasts; bring cash. Water comes from a nearby spring. The hut has no shower and limited electricity. It operates June through September, depending on snow cover. July and August attract mountaineers tackling Gran Paradiso's normal route, which starts here. Many parties climb at night to reach the summit and descend in daylight.
Book directly with the guardian (contact details via rifugi.net or CAI Turin section). July is heavily booked—reserve by mid-June if climbing Gran Paradiso then. The hut gets quiet in June and September; these shoulder months suit walkers wanting solitude and easier access across the cols without summit crowds.
This is a basic refuge with 10–12 places in a mix of dormitory and smaller rooms. The guardian offers simple dinners and breakfasts; bring cash. Water comes from a nearby spring. The hut has no shower and limited electricity. It operates June through September, depending on snow cover. July and August attract mountaineers tackling Gran Paradiso's normal route, which starts here. Many parties climb at night to reach the summit and descend in daylight.
Book directly with the guardian (contact details via rifugi.net or CAI Turin section). July is heavily booked—reserve by mid-June if climbing Gran Paradiso then. The hut gets quiet in June and September; these shoulder months suit walkers wanting solitude and easier access across the cols without summit crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead during July–August, especially if climbing Gran Paradiso; off-season (June, September) is more flexible. Contact via CAI Valsavarenche or check rifugi.net for availability and current contact details.
Open June through September, with July–August guaranteed staffing; shoulder months depend on weather and demand. Verify current dates before planning, as Alpine huts adjust for snow and conditions.
From Pont (Valsavarenche), hike 4–5 hours via Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II; from Gimillan (Valgrisanche), 3–4 hours direct. Both routes gain 1400–1600m on cairned paths through open terrain—no technical climbing required.
10–12 bed places, basic dormitory sleeping, meals provided (dinner and breakfast). Expect minimal amenities typical of mountain refuges: cold water, no showers, simple toilets—bring a sleeping bag liner.
Better for experienced hikers and mountaineers; the altitude (2373m), exposed terrain, and proximity to Gran Paradiso climbing routes make it unsuitable for young children or those new to Alpine trekking. Good for fit walkers accustomed to sustained elevation gain.
Location
45.5989, 7.0288
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