Demanding
About
Bivouac Le Mandre sits at 1,378m in the Maritime Alps, accessed via the Gesso Valley near Valdieri. The approach takes 2–2.5 hours from Terme di Valdieri, following marked trails through mixed forest and alpine meadow. This is a working base for climbers and hikers targeting the surrounding peaks, not a destination hut.
The bivouac is a simple stone shelter with 6 beds split between two small rooms. There is no guardian, no meals, and no running water—bring a stove, sleeping bag, and all supplies. The shelter offers basic protection from weather and a logical staging point for dawn starts on scrambles and rock routes in the range. It stays open year-round, though winter access can be difficult; check conditions before attempting a winter visit.
Book directly with the managing authority or local hiking clubs before arrival. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends. There is no telephone service or internet at the shelter, so plan your supply run and departure carefully.
The bivouac is a simple stone shelter with 6 beds split between two small rooms. There is no guardian, no meals, and no running water—bring a stove, sleeping bag, and all supplies. The shelter offers basic protection from weather and a logical staging point for dawn starts on scrambles and rock routes in the range. It stays open year-round, though winter access can be difficult; check conditions before attempting a winter visit.
Book directly with the managing authority or local hiking clubs before arrival. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends. There is no telephone service or internet at the shelter, so plan your supply run and departure carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead during summer; this tiny bivac fills quickly and has only 6 beds. Contact the Valdieri tourist office or hut operator directly—there's no online system.
Accessible year-round, but reliably safe and snow-free from June to September; winter ascent requires mountaineering experience.
Start from Terme di Valdieri and follow marked trails through forest and meadow for 2–2.5 hours to reach 1,378m.
It's a basic stone shelter with 6 beds in two rooms, no guardian, no meals, and no running water—you need a stove, sleeping bag, and all your own food and water.
No—this is a working base for climbers and experienced hikers doing multi-day mountaineering objectives, not a comfortable hut for casual walkers.
Location
46.2449, 12.0428
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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
2.7
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Season
- Year-round
- Total
- 6
Activities
Free Packing Checklist
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