Refuge Ottorino Mezzalama
0.8Rifugio Ottorino Mezzalama
3,036m
Valais, Switzerland
About
Rifugio Ottorino Mezzalama sits at 3036m on the Italian side of the Monte Rosa massif in Valais. The hut serves climbers heading to Monte Rosa's 4634m summit and hikers traversing the high alpine terrain around Gressoney-la-Trinité. Most approach from Gressoney via the Mandrone Glacier route, a technical approach requiring mountaineering experience and proper equipment. Expect 4–5 hours from the valley floor.
The CAI-managed refuge holds 36 beds across simple dormitory rooms. Meals are provided: hearty dinners and breakfasts fueled by a wood stove. Water comes from meltwater; there are no showers. The hut operates June through September, weather permitting. Altitude means weather can close access suddenly even in summer. Bring layers and a headtorch for early starts.
Book directly by phone with CAI sezione di Torino well ahead. July and August fill fast. Contact them 2–3 months in advance for guaranteed beds during peak season. Half-board (bed and meals) is standard; confirm payment methods when you call. The hut sits in an exposed location, so confirm conditions before you travel.
The CAI-managed refuge holds 36 beds across simple dormitory rooms. Meals are provided: hearty dinners and breakfasts fueled by a wood stove. Water comes from meltwater; there are no showers. The hut operates June through September, weather permitting. Altitude means weather can close access suddenly even in summer. Bring layers and a headtorch for early starts.
Book directly by phone with CAI sezione di Torino well ahead. July and August fill fast. Contact them 2–3 months in advance for guaranteed beds during peak season. Half-board (bed and meals) is standard; confirm payment methods when you call. The hut sits in an exposed location, so confirm conditions before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August, especially if climbing Monte Rosa; contact the hut directly by phone for availability and current conditions.
The hut is staffed from late June to late September, depending on snow conditions and glacier access.
Approach from Gressoney-la-Trinité via the Mandrone Glacier; expect 4–5 hours from the valley, but this is a technical mountaineering route requiring glacier experience and proper gear.
Meals are provided; there are no showers, so bring wet wipes and plan accordingly for a multi-day stay.
No—this is strictly for experienced mountaineers; the glacier approach requires technical skills, and the 3036m elevation demands acclimatization and fitness.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- CAI
- Season
- –
- Total
- 36
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0125 307226
- Website