Bordierhütte SAC – Alpine Hut Guide

The Bordierhütte SAC is a remote and atmospheric alpine hut located high above the Val d’Hérens, in the heart of one of Valais’ most rugged mountain areas. Less frequented than many well-known SAC huts, it offers experienced hikers and alpinists a quiet base surrounded by glaciers, rock, and wide alpine landscapes. The hut is valued for its isolation, classic SAC character, and access to serious high-mountain terrain.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val d’Hérens, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,886 m

  • Type: Serviced SAC alpine hut (with winter room)

  • Capacity: Approx. 35–40 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to mid-September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Reaching the Bordierhütte requires good fitness and solid mountain experience.

  • Main approach: From Arolla via alpine trails and moraines

  • Ascent time: ~4–5.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,400 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, moraines, rocky sections, occasional snowfields

  • Difficulty: T3–T4

  • Requirements: Sure-footedness and basic alpine awareness

  The final section can feel remote and committing, especially in poor weather.

• Facilities & Comfort

  During the guarded season, the hut offers classic SAC comfort.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Limited electricity for lighting

  The winter room is basic and intended for fully self-sufficient use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Meals are simple, hearty, and well suited to long mountain days. The atmosphere is calm and authentic, often shared by small groups of climbers and experienced hikers planning early starts in the surrounding high terrain.

• Prices & Booking

  Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: Available for SAC members

  • Booking: Recommended during summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

  Due to the hut’s isolation, reservations are strongly advised.

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Bordierhütte serves as a base for serious alpine objectives:

  • Glacier routes and traverses in the upper Val d’Hérens

  • Ascents of surrounding peaks and ridges

  • High-alpine link-ups toward neighboring huts

  • Demanding alpine hikes for experienced parties

  Many routes involve glacier travel and require full alpine equipment.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, variable weather

  • Main risks: Rockfall, snowfields, glacier hazards

  Early departures are essential for longer objectives.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Mountaineers and alpinists

  • High-mountain photographers

  • Not suitable for beginners or casual hikers

• Practical Tips

  • Start the ascent early due to its length

  • Carry sufficient water for the approach

  • Bring a hut sleeping bag liner

  • Check weather and glacier conditions carefully

  • Respect hut rules and quiet hours

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

The Bordierhütte SAC embodies the quieter, more demanding side of Valais alpinism. Its remote location above the Val d’Hérens, combined with classic SAC hospitality and access to serious alpine terrain, makes it an excellent choice for experienced mountain users seeking solitude and authenticity.