Demanding
About
Rifugio Federico Chabod sits at 2,710m in the Gran Paradiso massif, accessible from two main approaches. From Pont in the Valsavarenche, hike 2.5 hours via the Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II trail. Alternatively, approach from Ceresole Reale (Piedmont) via a 4-hour route across the Colle del Nivolet at 2,612m. The hut serves as a crucial hub for traversing the Gran Paradiso Circuit and reaching the 4,061m summit. Both approaches gain steady altitude through alpine meadow and scree.
The hut holds 85 beds across multiple rooms and offers showers—a rarity at this elevation. Half-board includes a hot evening meal and breakfast; the kitchen handles vegetarian and specific dietary requests if notified ahead. Open mid-June through mid-September. The hut fills rapidly in July and August, especially on weekends when the Gran Paradiso summit push brings crowds. Staffing is consistently competent, meals are straightforward mountain food, and the atmosphere suits serious alpinists rather than casual visitors.
Book at least two months ahead for July and August, one month for June and September. Contact directly by phone or email; response times are reliable. The hut manages its own bookings rather than using rifugi.net. Confirm bed availability before committing to a multi-day itinerary, as overbooking occasionally occurs on peak weekends. Bring cash—card payments are inconsistent.
The hut holds 85 beds across multiple rooms and offers showers—a rarity at this elevation. Half-board includes a hot evening meal and breakfast; the kitchen handles vegetarian and specific dietary requests if notified ahead. Open mid-June through mid-September. The hut fills rapidly in July and August, especially on weekends when the Gran Paradiso summit push brings crowds. Staffing is consistently competent, meals are straightforward mountain food, and the atmosphere suits serious alpinists rather than casual visitors.
Book at least two months ahead for July and August, one month for June and September. Contact directly by phone or email; response times are reliable. The hut manages its own bookings rather than using rifugi.net. Confirm bed availability before committing to a multi-day itinerary, as overbooking occasionally occurs on peak weekends. Bring cash—card payments are inconsistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 months ahead for summer weekends, especially July-August; weekdays need less notice. Call the hut directly or use rifugio.net for availability.
The hut typically opens June and closes September, depending on snow conditions and staffing. Check the CAI website or call ahead to confirm current season dates.
From Pont (Valsavarenche): 2.5 hours via Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II. From Ceresole Reale: 4 hours via Colle del Nivolet (2,612m)—both routes gain steady altitude through meadow and scree.
The hut has 85 beds and serves breakfast and dinner; bring a sleep sack or rent one. Shower facilities are basic; water may be limited at this elevation.
It works for fit hikers and families comfortable with 2-4 hour approaches and 2,710m elevation, but not for casual beginners. The Gran Paradiso summit attempt (4,061m) requires scrambling experience.
Location
45.5403, 7.2389
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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
4.8
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Total
- 85
Facilities
Showers
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +39 0165 95574
- Website
- https://www.rifugiochabod.com/
Activities
Featured In
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