Refuge Ottorino Donati
1.0Rifugio Ottorino Donati
2,505m
Graubuenden, Switzerland
About
Rifugio Ottorino Donati sits at 2,505m on the Italian side of the Monte Rosa massif, in the Wallis region near Zermatt. The hut is reached via the Staffel Alp trail from Saas-Fee, a 4–5 hour hike gaining 1,300m elevation. This is a serious approach on steep terrain—bring an ice axe and crampons in spring and early summer when snow lingers. The hut also serves mountaineers accessing Monte Rosa's higher peaks and the Lyskamm.
The refuge has 13 beds spread across simple shared rooms. Meals are basic but substantial: expect polenta, pasta, and stews cooked on a wood stove. Water comes from snowmelt. The hut operates from mid-June through September, weather permitting. Conditions above 2,500m can change fast, and the hut may close earlier than planned if early autumn snow arrives. There is no electricity or mobile signal.
Call ahead to confirm space and check snow conditions before climbing. The hut is managed on a seasonal basis, so direct contact by phone is essential—do not assume availability. July and August are busy; aim to book in May if those months suit your schedule. Bring sleeping sheets or rent them on-site. The hut keeper can advise on routes up Monte Rosa and current conditions on the Grenzgletscher.
The refuge has 13 beds spread across simple shared rooms. Meals are basic but substantial: expect polenta, pasta, and stews cooked on a wood stove. Water comes from snowmelt. The hut operates from mid-June through September, weather permitting. Conditions above 2,500m can change fast, and the hut may close earlier than planned if early autumn snow arrives. There is no electricity or mobile signal.
Call ahead to confirm space and check snow conditions before climbing. The hut is managed on a seasonal basis, so direct contact by phone is essential—do not assume availability. July and August are busy; aim to book in May if those months suit your schedule. Bring sleeping sheets or rent them on-site. The hut keeper can advise on routes up Monte Rosa and current conditions on the Grenzgletscher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the hut by phone as early as possible—with only 13 beds, availability fills quickly, especially in July and August.
The hut operates seasonally; contact them directly for exact opening and closing dates, as staffing depends on snow conditions and mountaineering activity.
Hike from Saas-Fee via Staffel Alp trail (4–5 hours, 1,300m gain) on steep, demanding terrain; bring ice axe and crampons in spring and early summer.
Simple shared rooms with basic meals provided; expect minimal amenities typical of high-altitude mountaineering huts.
No—this is for experienced mountaineers and fit, technical hikers; the approach is steep and exposed, and the hut serves as a base for serious Alpine climbing.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 13
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0342 214300
- Website
- https://www.diska.it/rifdonati.asp