Berghaus Oberaar
MonaLisa1998 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0

Berghaus Oberaar

1.0
2,348m Bernese Oberland, Switzerland
Demanding

About

Berghaus Oberaar sits at 2348m on the Oberaar Glacier plateau in the Bernese Oberland. Reach it from Guttannen (1340m) via the Unteraar Glacier approach—allow 5-6 hours for the 10km hike. The route crosses rough moraine and requires basic glacier travel skills; a guide is sensible if you lack experience. From Hospental, the crossing from Gotthard is longer but offers an alternative multi-day approach into this remote corner of the Uri Alps.
The hut sleeps around 50 people across mixed dormitory rooms. Meals focus on hearty mountain fare cooked on-site; self-catering is not available. Water comes from meltwater sources. There is no WiFi or mobile signal. The hut operates June through September only, weather permitting. The building sits isolated on the plateau with views across the glacier, making it a genuine expedition base rather than a day-hike stop. Winter access is restricted and requires mountaineering experience.
Book direct by email or phone—calls work best outside peak season. July and August fill quickly; reserve by late May. June and September see lighter traffic. The hut is run by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC). Expect full occupancy on fair-weather weekends. The isolation means cancellations matter: confirm the day before you arrive, as conditions can shift fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact the hut directly by email or phone at least 2-3 months ahead, especially for July and August weekends.
Berghaus Oberaar is staffed June to October, with access dependent on glacier conditions and weather.
Start from Guttannen (1340m) and hike 10km across the Unteraar Glacier to reach the hut in 5-6 hours; basic glacier travel skills are essential.
The hut provides dormitory beds for around 50 people and serves meals; there is no WiFi.
No—this is a mountaineering hut for experienced hikers and climbers; the glacier approach and altitude require fitness and glacier travel skills.

Quick Facts

Season
Total
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Contact & Booking

Phone
+41 33 982 36 11
Website
https://www.grimselwelt.ch/grimselhotels/oberaar/