Technical
About
Rifugio Francesco Gonella sits at 3,073m in the Gran Paradiso massif, on the normal route to Gran Paradiso itself (4,061m). Reach the hut from Pont in about 5 hours on foot, crossing meadows then rocky terrain. Most climbers approach via the Gramont valley. The location offers straightforward access to Gran Paradiso and the surrounding peaks, making it the standard basecamp for the mountain.
The rifugio has 24 beds across simple dormitory rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen provides solid mountain meals. There is running water and basic toilets. The hut opens from June through September, depending on snow conditions. Mobile signal is poor or absent. The hut operates on a first-come-first-served basis for walk-ins, though advance notice is strongly preferred.
Book by phone as early as possible. July and August fill weeks ahead, especially around weekends. Contact the hut directly to confirm current opening dates and availability. The CAI manages the rifugio. For current contact details, check cai.it or rifugi.net. Plan to arrive by mid-afternoon to settle in before dinner. Bring cash; card payment is not reliably available.
The rifugio has 24 beds across simple dormitory rooms. Half-board is standard; the kitchen provides solid mountain meals. There is running water and basic toilets. The hut opens from June through September, depending on snow conditions. Mobile signal is poor or absent. The hut operates on a first-come-first-served basis for walk-ins, though advance notice is strongly preferred.
Book by phone as early as possible. July and August fill weeks ahead, especially around weekends. Contact the hut directly to confirm current opening dates and availability. The CAI manages the rifugio. For current contact details, check cai.it or rifugi.net. Plan to arrive by mid-afternoon to settle in before dinner. Bring cash; card payment is not reliably available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July and August, earlier if possible for weekends. Contact the rifugio directly by phone or check rifugio.net and cai.it for availability and reservations.
It's typically open June through September, with full staffing during peak season (July–August). Check current dates before planning, as Alpine huts can close due to snow or weather.
Hike from Pont in about 5 hours, crossing meadows then rocky terrain via the Gramont valley. This is the standard approach and the normal route for Gran Paradiso climbers.
Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; the kitchen provides solid, simple mountain meals. The rifugio has 24 beds in dormitory rooms and basic facilities typical of high-altitude huts.
The 5-hour approach hike is manageable for fit hikers, but the rifugio's main purpose is as a basecamp for Gran Paradiso (4,061m), which requires mountaineering skills, rope work, and scrambling experience. Not suitable for casual hikers or families without Alpine training.
Location
45.8193, 6.8322
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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
3.1
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI CAI
- Total
- 24
Facilities
Breakfast
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0165 885101;+39 339 5849608;+39 340 4065672
- Website
- http://www.rifugiogonella.com/
Activities
Featured In
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