Refuge Pian della Ballotta
4.3Rifugio Pian della Ballotta
About
Rifugio Pian della Ballotta sits at 2,470m in the Gran Paradiso massif, Valle d'Aosta. Reach it from Ceresole Reale to the southeast via the Pian della Ballotta trail—a steady 3-hour ascent gaining 600m through larch forest and alpine meadow. The hut lies on the main walking route toward Gran Paradiso (4,061m) and links well with nearby rifugios for multi-day traverses.
The refuge sleeps 80 guests across shared dormitories and a few private rooms. The kitchen serves hearty dinners and packed lunches; half-board is standard. Water comes from a mountain spring. There's no electricity beyond basic solar, so expect minimal lighting and no charging facilities. Pit toilets sit outside. The season runs June through September, weather dependent. Staffing gaps occur mid-week in shoulder months, so confirm opening before visiting off-peak.
Book direct by calling or arriving without reservation—spaces rarely fill completely except mid-July through August. The hut is managed independently, not by CAI. Phone ahead to confirm staffing on your intended dates, especially if traveling alone or arriving outside peak hours. July and August weekends see heavy foot traffic; arrive early or book beds several weeks ahead.
The refuge sleeps 80 guests across shared dormitories and a few private rooms. The kitchen serves hearty dinners and packed lunches; half-board is standard. Water comes from a mountain spring. There's no electricity beyond basic solar, so expect minimal lighting and no charging facilities. Pit toilets sit outside. The season runs June through September, weather dependent. Staffing gaps occur mid-week in shoulder months, so confirm opening before visiting off-peak.
Book direct by calling or arriving without reservation—spaces rarely fill completely except mid-July through August. The hut is managed independently, not by CAI. Phone ahead to confirm staffing on your intended dates, especially if traveling alone or arriving outside peak hours. July and August weekends see heavy foot traffic; arrive early or book beds several weeks ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for summer weekends, earlier for July-August. Contact the hut directly or use rifugi.net; it's a popular hub for Gran Paradiso ascents so spots fill fast.
Typically June to September, with variable dates depending on snow conditions. Check cai.it or contact the hut directly before visiting shoulder months.
Hike from Ceresole Reale (southeast approach) via the Pian della Ballotta trail: 3 hours, gaining 600m through larch forest and alpine meadow on a steady, waymarked route.
Sleeps 80 in shared dormitories and a few private rooms. Serves hearty dinners and packed lunches; hot showers are likely available but confirm when booking.
Not ideal for beginners—the 3-hour, 600m ascent on a demanding trail requires solid hill fitness. Better for experienced hikers; families with mountain experience and fit teenagers can manage it.
Location
45.4601, 7.1159
HutLists Score
4.3
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Total
- 80
Facilities
Breakfast
Half board
Meals served
Drinking water
Activities
Featured In
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