Demanding
About
Rifugio Elena sits at 2,055m in the Gran Paradiso National Park, Valle d'Aosta. The hut is accessible via the Valnontey valley from Cogne. Most parties hike from Cogne (1,534m) in 2–2.5 hours on a well-marked trail that gains 520m steadily. The refuge serves as a staging point for ascents of Gran Paradiso (4,061m) and the surrounding peaks. Direct access from the road shortens the approach considerably for those with limited time.
Rifugio Elena holds 127 beds across multiple rooms. The kitchen serves hearty meals from dinner through breakfast. Half-board (half pensione) is standard. The hut has hot showers, a small bar, and a common room with a woodstove. Water is piped from mountain springs. Opening runs from June through September, with variable shoulder-season operation depending on snow melt and staffing. The hut is managed by the local CAI section.
Book directly by email or phone as soon as your dates are set, especially for July and August when the hut fills weeks ahead. Weekends in summer require advance notice. The hut accepts payment in cash or bank transfer. Confirm cancellation terms when you book. Phone ahead on the day of arrival to confirm dinner and bed allocation if you're arriving late.
Rifugio Elena holds 127 beds across multiple rooms. The kitchen serves hearty meals from dinner through breakfast. Half-board (half pensione) is standard. The hut has hot showers, a small bar, and a common room with a woodstove. Water is piped from mountain springs. Opening runs from June through September, with variable shoulder-season operation depending on snow melt and staffing. The hut is managed by the local CAI section.
Book directly by email or phone as soon as your dates are set, especially for July and August when the hut fills weeks ahead. Weekends in summer require advance notice. The hut accepts payment in cash or bank transfer. Confirm cancellation terms when you book. Phone ahead on the day of arrival to confirm dinner and bed allocation if you're arriving late.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends and July–August; weekday visits outside peak season often have space available. Call the hut directly or use rifugio.net for reservations.
Open June through September typically, with full staffing during this period. Check cai.it or contact the hut directly for exact opening/closing dates and any shoulder-season operation.
Start from Cogne (1,534m) and hike 2–2.5 hours on a well-marked trail gaining 520m elevation; direct road access is also available if you have a vehicle. The hut sits at 2,055m in Gran Paradiso National Park, reached via the Valnontey valley.
Rifugio Elena has 127 beds in shared rooms, a working kitchen, and serves meals. Standard Alpine hut facilities; confirm shower availability when booking, as hot water is sometimes limited.
Yes—the 2–2.5 hour approach from Cogne is steady but manageable for fit families and experienced walkers. It's an ideal base for Gran Paradiso ascents and day hikes; not suitable for very young children or inexperienced mountaineers attempting the 4,061m peak.
Location
45.8847, 7.0656
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Valle d'Aosta before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in Valle d'AostaBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
4.1
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Total
- 127
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0165 844688
- Website
- http://www.rifugioelena.it
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.