Chabod Hut

Rifugio Chabod is located in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park at 2750 meters altitude, making it perfect for acclimatization. We stay the night here on our two-day Gran Paradiso tour, reaching it by a 3-hour hike on a mule track for around 900 meters of elevation gain.

It was officially opened in 1985, and rebuilt again in 2006 into today’s shape, making it possible to be open in winter too. Each year, it opens its doors in early spring for ski mountaineering, closing again in mid-May. From June until September it is used as a resting place for classic ascents and hikes in the Gran Paradiso National Park.

It is privately run by a friendly Italian hospitality crew, making your night here cosy, even though sleeping at elevation could be a little uncomfortable. It is one of the rare huts at this elevation with running water that is also drinkable, so you can even take a shower. They also provide you with slippers to use in the rooms or dormitories, where we’ll stay depending on availability.

The best part of the hut is definitely their dining room. In true Italian fashion, they serve all kinds of delicious meals, including desserts, served with creamy espresso coffee. They also offer other non-alcoholic drinks, while beer and wine are always available for an evening toast after a successful day.