Refuge Alpe Cavanna
1.6Rifugio Alpe Cavanna
Valle d'Aosta, Italy
About
Rifugio Alpe Cavanna sits at 2,496m in the Gran Paradiso massif above Cogne in Valle d'Aosta. Reach it from Cogne village (1,534m) via the Valnontey trail in 2.5–3 hours, a steady climb through larch forest and alpine meadow. The final approach crosses open terrain with views into the glaciated peaks of Gran Paradiso itself. In winter, approach from the Noasca valley on the eastern side instead.
The hut has 50 beds split across shared rooms. Meals are substantial—expect pasta, polenta, and local game in season. The kitchen cooks for mixed crowds of day-hikers and trekkers crossing the Gran Paradiso circuit. Showers are cold water only. It stays open mid-June through September, with weekend service in shoulder months depending on snow. The refuge operates as a CAI hut but accepts all comers.
Book direct by phone as far ahead as possible for July and August weekends—the hut fills with groups using the Cogne approach. A credit card reservation system exists but availability updates slowly. Arrive early on peak days or plan a mid-week crossing instead. Half-board rates are standard for overnight stays.
The hut has 50 beds split across shared rooms. Meals are substantial—expect pasta, polenta, and local game in season. The kitchen cooks for mixed crowds of day-hikers and trekkers crossing the Gran Paradiso circuit. Showers are cold water only. It stays open mid-June through September, with weekend service in shoulder months depending on snow. The refuge operates as a CAI hut but accepts all comers.
Book direct by phone as far ahead as possible for July and August weekends—the hut fills with groups using the Cogne approach. A credit card reservation system exists but availability updates slowly. Arrive early on peak days or plan a mid-week crossing instead. Half-board rates are standard for overnight stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July and August, especially weekends; shoulder seasons (June, September) need 1–2 weeks' notice. Call the hut directly or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open late June through September for summer hiking; winter access via Noasca valley is possible but check ahead as staffing varies. Contact the hut by phone to confirm current dates.
From Cogne village (1,534m), hike the Valnontey trail for 2.5–3 hours to the hut at 2,496m; in winter, approach from the Noasca valley on the eastern side instead.
50 beds in shared rooms; meals are substantial with pasta, polenta, and local specialities. Confirm whether dinner reservations are required when you book.
Yes—the 3-hour approach from Cogne is steady rather than steep and follows marked trails through accessible alpine terrain, making it reasonable for fit families and mountain-ready beginners.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 3483301032
- Website