Bivacco Col D'Egua

Bivacco Col D'Egua sits at 2,260m on the Col d'Egua in the Valais Alps, on the border between Switzerland and Italy. The hut is reached from Evolène via the Val d'Arolla. Most parties approach from Arolla village (1,998m) and hike 4–5 hours up the Glacier de Tsijiore Nouve and rocky terrain to the col. Alternatively, climb from the Italian side via Champoluc or Ayas Valley, adding 5–6 hours of walking depending on your starting point. The hut sits on a major mountaineering corridor used by climbers heading to peaks like Mont Collon (3,637m) and Gran Tournalin (3,379m).
The bivacco is a simple, unguarded shelter with 12 beds in dormitory style across multiple rooms. There is no warden, no meals, and no running water. Bring a stove and cook your own food. A toilet is available. The hut opens year-round but is really only viable June to September when the approach is snow-free and the col is passable. In winter, approach conditions become serious—avalanche terrain and crevasses require full mountaineering skills and winter equipment.
Book ahead by contacting the managing organisation or the Valais tourist office. This is not a staffed hut, so you need to arrange access keys in advance. July and August are busy months. Bring a sleeping bag and mat. Water sources are scarce near the col; melt snow or carry enough from below. The hut is a functional base for mountaineers, not a destination for leisurely stays.