Refuge Alpe Pianetti

Rifugio Alpe Pianetti sits at 1,321m in the Walser valleys of Valle d'Aosta, above the village of Rima. Reach it on foot from Rima in 2.5 hours via a steady forest trail that climbs 700m through larch and spruce. The hut works as a base for day walks into the Walser Alps or as a stop on longer valley traverses heading toward Monte Rosa or the Gran Paradiso approaches. The landscape here is pastoral rather than dramatic—rolling meadows, stone villages, and ridge walks with views across to the high peaks beyond.

The rifugio is run by a small team and operates year-round as a working mountain inn. It sleeps around 30 people in simple rooms. Meals focus on local Walser cooking: kassuola (barley soup), polenta, and hearty vegetable dishes. Half-board rates are reasonable. The hut has basic shower facilities and heating. Most visitors come in summer and autumn for hiking; winter sees lighter traffic but the hut remains open for snowshoers and skiers.

Book directly by phone or email several weeks ahead for July and August weekends. The hut fills regularly with Italian hikers on weekends year-round. Weekday visits in shoulder seasons find space easily. Check opening dates in December and January before planning a winter trip.