Cabane de Bertol
© © 2022 Club Alpin Suisse CAS
The place
Swiss hut of the Swiss Alpine Club (Neuchâtel section), at 3,311 m altitude on a rocky spur in Valais, on the Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route. Capacity of 80 places in season. Staffed continuously from 1 March to end of September (with possible extension into October depending on weather). Wardens: Florence and Stéphane. Off-season winter room open and equipped for 16 people with blankets (CHF 25/person). Spectacular access via ladders and cables. Contact: bertol@cas-neuchatel.ch.
Getting there
Depuis Arolla (VS) via les Plans de Bertol jusqu'à la cabane. En été (randonnée) : 4h15 pour 1350 m de dénivelé positif. En hiver/à ski de randonnée : 5h pour 1340 m de dénivelé positif. La dernière partie de l'accès se fait par un parcours d'échelles et de câbles équipant la traversée du mamelon rocheux, avec crampons nécessaires tant que le névé subsiste.
The setting
La cabane est perchée à 3311 m d'altitude, offrant une vue incomparable sur les sommets environnants (« balcon sur les glaciers »). L'accès final par échelles et câbles procure une ascension marquante avant d'atteindre un panorama alpin dégagé.
A bit of history
#### ️ The Cabane de Bertol: Alpine Heritage History and Evolution: Perched at 3,311 metres altitude, the Cabane de Bertol is a mountain refuge located in the val d'Arolla, Switzerland. Owned by the Neuchâtel section of the Swiss Alpine Club, it stands as a major stage on the Haute Route linking Chamonix to Zermatt. #### ️ Located at the Heart of Valais Location: Overlooking the val d'Hérens, the hut offers an exceptional panorama and is reachable in four hours from the Arolla valley. It is a gateway to major summits and the surrounding glacial plateaus. Demanding access: Reaching the hut involves climbing various ladders and stairways, a route as impressive as it is perilous, drawing seasoned mountaineers. #### An Exceptional High-Altitude Refuge Architecture: Built on a rocky promontory, the Cabane de Bertol spans four levels with facilities suited to its exceptional location. Its practical, robust design reflects the aim of providing comfort at high altitude. Capacity: The hut can host up to 80 visitors, offering a welcoming refuge for mountain-goers. #### ️ Mountaineering Challenges Flagship climbs: From the Cabane de Bertol, mountaineers can tackle renowned summits such as the Aiguille de la Tsa, the Tête Blanche, the Dents de Bertol, the Dent de Tsalion and the Pointes des Douves Blanches. #### Heritage and Information For More Information: The hut has its place in the list of Alpine refuges and is represented within the Swiss Alpine Club, contributing to the memory and culture of mountaineering. #### For More Information Useful Networks and Links: Official site and tourism resources provided by the Swiss Alpine Club for those wishing to discover this jewel of Valais. #### Within the Refuge Network The Cabane de Bertol is part of the prestigious network of Alpine refuges, allowing hikers and mountaineers to rest and prepare for their next mountain challenge.
What you'll find
Good to know
Warning: water is a recurring issue at Bertol, given its position, so take precautions!
