Highlight • Mountain Hut
Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie
Hiking
5.0
(5)
The Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie is a mountain bivouac nestled high in the Pennine Alps, specifically in the upper Val Pellina of Italy's Aosta Valley. Standing at an elevation of approximately 2,674 meters (8,773 feet) above sea level, this hut serves as a crucial point of shelter and a starting point for various alpine adventures. It is renowned for its strategic location and the stunning natural features surrounding it.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the bivouac, which include majestic peaks like Mont Vélan, Emilius, Grivola, Mont Gelè, Gran Combin, and Gran Tete de By. The sense of achievement upon reaching this remote spot, combined with the serene alpine environment, makes it a truly rewarding destination for hikers and mountaineers. Many find the journey itself to be a beautiful excursion, offering a deep connection with the rugged terrain around Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie.
Before embarking on the hike to Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie, it's essential to be well-prepared. The route, often starting from the hamlet of Glassier in Ollomont, involves a significant elevation gain of over 1,100 meters and can be steep in parts, making good physical fitness and appropriate alpine experience necessary. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear and carry suitable clothing for changing mountain weather. The bivouac itself provides basic accommodation with 16 beds, woolen blankets, pillows, tables, and benches, along with cookware, though a stove is typically not present. A water fountain is usually available outside during the summer months.
The best time to visit the Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie is generally during the warmer months when the trails are clear of snow, though it is open year-round for experienced mountaineers. This period allows for optimal hiking near Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie hut and enjoying the expansive views. The bivouac is a popular base for advanced hikes, particularly for those attempting the normal Italian route to Mont Vélan, which passes through the nearby Col de Valsorey. Other excursions include traverses to Colle Valsorey or Lago Molari di Valsorey.
Access to the bivouac typically follows path number 3 from Glassier, an excursionist route that takes approximately three hours. This trail winds through picturesque areas such as Pont, Crottes, By, and the Porchère Alp at 2,102 meters, before reaching Tsa di Porchère at 2,290 meters and finally ascending to the bivouac. The Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie hut difficulty is rated as intermediate due to the sustained climb and varied terrain.
Hikers often highlight the unique experience of staying in such a remote and self-sufficient shelter. The quiet solitude, especially outside of peak season, allows for deep appreciation of the surrounding Pennine Alps. The bivouac's simple amenities encourage a focus on the natural environment, from the crisp mountain air to the vast starry skies, creating memorable moments for those who venture here.
Whether you're planning an ambitious mountaineering expedition or a challenging day hike, the area offers a variety of routes to explore. You can find detailed maps and plan your visit to the Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie, discovering the best hikes and trails, using komoot's route planner. The diverse terrain around Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie hut caters to different levels of experience, promising an unforgettable alpine adventure in the Aosta Valley.
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
Tips
September 12, 2022
Hiking
there is no stove, but cookware is present
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie
3.0
(1)
22
hikers
12.4km
06:02
1,020m
1,020m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
3.0
(1)
15
hikers
11.6km
06:12
1,070m
1,070m
Alpine trail past waterfalls and historic dam to a memorial mountain refuge with Grand Combin views.
4.5
(2)
18
hikers
13.1km
06:50
1,050m
1,050m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,620 m
Weather
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Monday 11 May
5°C
-4°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities can I expect at Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie?
The bivouac provides basic accommodation with 16 beds, woolen blankets, pillows, tables, and benches. It also includes kitchen material, but note that there is no stove. A water fountain is typically available outside during the summer months.
Is Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie suitable for beginners or families with young children?
The hike to Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie is rated as intermediate due to a significant elevation gain of over 1,100 meters and steep sections. It requires good physical fitness and some alpine experience. Therefore, it may not be suitable for absolute beginners or families with very young children. However, experienced hiking families might find it a rewarding challenge.
Are there any alternative or less strenuous routes to reach the bivouac?
The primary and most common access route is path number 3 starting from the hamlet of Glassier in Ollomont. This route is the standard for reaching the bivouac and involves a sustained climb. There are no significantly less strenuous alternative routes that directly lead to the bivouac, as its high alpine location inherently demands a challenging ascent.
What are the parking options for hikers heading to Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie?
Hikers typically start their journey from the hamlet of Glassier in Ollomont. You will find parking available in or near Glassier, though it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Can I bring my dog to Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie?
While the trails in the Aosta Valley are generally dog-friendly, specific rules for bivouacs can vary. As Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie is a shared, unmanaged shelter, it's generally recommended to exercise caution and ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept under control. Always follow local regulations and be considerate of other hikers and potential wildlife.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hike to the bivouac?
The terrain is varied, starting with well-defined paths that pass through areas like Pont, Crottes, By, and the Porchère Alp. As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and more alpine, leading through Tsa di Porchère before the final climb to the bivouac. Expect rocky sections and potentially uneven ground, characteristic of high mountain trails.
What are the best advanced hikes or mountaineering objectives accessible from the bivouac?
Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie serves as an important base for various mountaineering activities. It is a key point of support for the normal Italian route to Mont Vélan, which passes through the Col de Valsorey. Hikers can also undertake other challenging excursions and traverses in the area, such as to Colle Valsorey or Lago Molari di Valsorey.
Is there any public transport available to reach the starting point in Glassier?
Public transport options to remote mountain hamlets like Glassier in Ollomont are limited. It is generally recommended to reach the starting point by private vehicle. Check local Aosta Valley transport schedules for any seasonal bus services that might operate closer to Ollomont, but expect to arrange your own transport for the final leg to Glassier.
What is the history behind the name Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie?
The current bivouac, constructed in 2003, replaced an older structure known as "Savoie." It is dedicated to Maria Cristina Rosazza, a young woman from Turin who tragically passed away at the age of 33 after an accident involving an ice cascade in Lillaz (Cogne).
Are there any other accommodation options or services like restaurants near the bivouac?
Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie is a remote, unmanaged mountain shelter. There are no restaurants, cafes, or other commercial accommodation options directly near the bivouac. The closest services would be found in the valley, in villages like Ollomont or further afield in the Aosta Valley. Hikers should be self-sufficient for their stay at the bivouac.
How long does it typically take to hike to Bivacco Maria Cristina Rosazza al Savoie?
The hike from Glassier typically takes approximately three hours to reach the bivouac. This estimate is for a one-way ascent and assumes a steady pace with good physical fitness.