Refuge Casa di Caccia del Gran Piano

Rifugio Casa di Caccia del Gran Piano sits at 2,222m in the Gran Paradiso National Park area of Valle d'Aosta. The hut is reached via a 2.5-hour hike from the village of Ceresole Reale, which sits at 1,600m. The route follows established mule tracks through open pasture and sparse larch forest. The final approach crosses boulder fields before reaching the refuge. Most hikers access Ceresole Reale from Turin (about 90 minutes by road). Summer conditions allow straightforward hiking; snow blocks the route from October through May.

The refuge operates as a working mountain lodge with 40 beds spread across shared dormitories and a handful of private rooms. Meals are hearty valley fare—pasta, polenta, locally-sourced meat—served in a modest dining room. The kitchen produces packed lunches on request. Water comes from a spring; electricity is limited. Toilet facilities are basic but clean. The hut opens mid-June through September, weather permitting. This is a working hunting lodge, so weekday midweek quieter than weekends.

Book directly with the refuge by phone (+39 0124 95100) or email. July and August weekends fill 4–6 weeks ahead. June and September offer more availability. Half-board (bed and dinner with breakfast) is standard; meals are mandatory during peak season. The hut prefers cash payment, though bank transfers are possible.