Cabin Damiano Marinelli

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Capanna Damiano Marinelli

3,036m Valais, Switzerland
Technical

About

Capanna Damiano Marinelli sits at 3,036m on the frontier ridge between Switzerland and Italy, in the remote upper reaches of the Valais Alps. The hut lies south of Saas-Fee, accessible via a demanding high-altitude route that takes 5–6 hours from Saas-Grund or via longer approaches from the Antrona Valley. This is a hut for experienced mountain walkers and alpinists—it sits well above the tree line on a col with full exposure to weather.
The hut is a simple, self-managed refuge run by the SAC (Swiss Alpine Club) with 10 beds in basic dormitory spaces. There is no guardian (warden) on site, so you must be entirely self-sufficient. Bring water containers—the hut has no running water except occasional snow melt. Fuel for cooking is not guaranteed; check conditions before arrival. The hut offers shelter and storage for equipment but minimal amenities. It opens seasonally from late spring through early autumn, depending on snow conditions. Winter access is technical and recommended only for experienced mountaineers equipped for alpine touring.
Book through the SAC's online hut system. Key season runs from July through September when high passes are reliably snow-free. Contact the Saas-Fee section of the SAC directly to confirm current conditions, water availability, and access before setting out. The hut fills quickly in summer due to its small capacity and position on the high-level Valais–Italy traverses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; this 10-bed hut fills quickly. Contact the SAC or check the hut's online booking system—it's self-managed, so availability depends on the caretaker's schedule.
Open June to September, weather permitting; July and August are fully staffed, but shoulder months may have limited or self-service access.
Allow 5–6 hours from Saas-Grund via the high-altitude route, or approach via the Antrona Valley from Italy (longer). Both are demanding mountain walks with scrambling; exposed terrain in places.
Basic mountain refuge with 10 beds; bring a sleeping bag. Water from snowmelt or collected runoff; toilet facilities but no shower. Simple meals available if the caretaker is present.
No—this is for experienced mountain walkers and alpinists only. The 3,036m col sits in full exposure with scrambling on the approach; poor weather can be dangerous, and self-rescue is expected.

Quick Facts

Season
Total
10
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Contact & Booking

Email
Phone
Website