Oberaar
1.2About
Oberaar sits at 2,335m in the Grimsel region of the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by glacier-fed lakes and high pasture. Most hikers reach it from Gletsch (1,759m) in about 4.5 hours, following the Rhône Glacier trail then heading southeast into the Aar Valley. The walk is straightforward but exposed in sections. An alternative approach from Handegg (1,401m) takes 5 hours and offers a wilder route through less-trafficked terrain. The hut is accessible only on foot.
The SAC-run hut has 78 beds in mixed dormitories. Meals are substantial—expect hearty Swiss fare cooked on-site, with dinner bookings essential. They provide simple breakfast, packed lunches for onward hiking, and hot drinks throughout the day. The hut operates year-round, though services are basic in winter. There's no WiFi or mobile signal here. Water comes from mountain streams. Toilets are basic but functional.
Book directly by email or phone at least two weeks ahead, especially for summer weekends or in July and August when it fills regularly. Groups should contact them well in advance. The hut is very busy from late June through September—aim for May, early June, or September if you prefer quieter days. Weather changes fast at this elevation; bring waterproofs and warm layers regardless of forecast.
The SAC-run hut has 78 beds in mixed dormitories. Meals are substantial—expect hearty Swiss fare cooked on-site, with dinner bookings essential. They provide simple breakfast, packed lunches for onward hiking, and hot drinks throughout the day. The hut operates year-round, though services are basic in winter. There's no WiFi or mobile signal here. Water comes from mountain streams. Toilets are basic but functional.
Book directly by email or phone at least two weeks ahead, especially for summer weekends or in July and August when it fills regularly. Groups should contact them well in advance. The hut is very busy from late June through September—aim for May, early June, or September if you prefer quieter days. Weather changes fast at this elevation; bring waterproofs and warm layers regardless of forecast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; email or phone the hut directly to reserve.
Oberaar is staffed from mid-June to late September.
From Gletsch (1,759m), it's a 4.5-hour hike following the Rhône Glacier trail southeast into the Aar Valley; the alternative from Handegg (1,401m) takes 5 hours but is quieter and more exposed terrain.
The hut serves dinner and breakfast; there are no showers, and WiFi is not available.
The route is non-technical but exposed in sections and gains 576m from Gletsch—it's best for hikers with solid fitness and mountain experience.
Location
46.5489, 8.2775
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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
1.2
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Quick Facts
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +41339824811
- Website
- https://www.grimselwelt.ch/grimselhotels/oberaar
Activities
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