Refuge Vieux Crest
1.3Rifugio Vieux Crest
1,934m
Valais, Switzerland
About
Refuge Vieux Crest sits at 1,934m on the Swiss-Italian border in the southern Valais. The hut anchors the Crest route, a high-altitude traverse linking multiple Alpine passes. Approach from Saas-Grund (1,559m) in 4–5 hours, climbing steeply through the Mattmark basin via marked trails. From the north, hikers can also arrive via the Weisshorn massif in a full day's walk. The hut commands views across the Gran Combin range and sits on the main summer hiking corridor through the southern Alps.
The refuge manages 40 beds across simple shared dormitories. Meals are hot and basic: pasta, soup, locally-sourced ingredients when available. The hut has running water and a wood-fired heating system that runs year-round. There is no shower. The season runs late June through mid-September, weather depending. Winter closing protects the building from high avalanche exposure.
Phone ahead to reserve beds, especially weekends and July–August. The hut gets busy mid-week with trans-Alpine hiking groups and Italian climbers heading to nearby peaks. Book 2–3 weeks in advance for July; April reservations work for shoulder season (June and September). Arrive by early afternoon to help kitchen staff with dinner prep. The hut has no email listed, so telephone contact is essential.
The refuge manages 40 beds across simple shared dormitories. Meals are hot and basic: pasta, soup, locally-sourced ingredients when available. The hut has running water and a wood-fired heating system that runs year-round. There is no shower. The season runs late June through mid-September, weather depending. Winter closing protects the building from high avalanche exposure.
Phone ahead to reserve beds, especially weekends and July–August. The hut gets busy mid-week with trans-Alpine hiking groups and Italian climbers heading to nearby peaks. Book 2–3 weeks in advance for July; April reservations work for shoulder season (June and September). Arrive by early afternoon to help kitchen staff with dinner prep. The hut has no email listed, so telephone contact is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; the hut has only 40 beds and sits on a popular traverse route. Contact by phone to secure your spot.
The hut is staffed during the summer hiking season, typically June to September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions.
From Saas-Grund (1,559m), allow 4–5 hours to reach the hut via marked trails through the Mattmark basin. The approach is steep and exposed; alternative access from the north via the Weisshorn massif takes a full day.
The hut provides meals and dormitory beds for 40 guests; confirm availability of showers and water details when you call to book.
No—the steep 4–5 hour approach from Saas-Grund and alpine exposure suit experienced hikers; this is a serious mountain hut on a high-altitude traverse, not an entry-level destination.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 40
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +39 0125 307983
- Website
- http://www.refugevieuxcrest.com/