Bortelhütte (Ober-Bortelhütte SAC) – Alpine Hut & Hiking Base Guide

The Bortelhütte, more precisely the Ober-Bortelhütte SAC, is a friendly and relatively accessible alpine hut located above the Simplon Pass. Set in open high-pasture terrain with wide views, it serves as a popular base for hikers, families with mountain experience, and ski tourers in winter. Nearby, the Unter-Bortelhütte lies lower in the valley and is often used as an intermediate stop, but the Ober-Bortelhütte is the main overnight destination.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Simplon area, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,113 m (Ober-Bortelhütte)

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 40–45 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically June to October

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access to the Bortelhütte is straightforward and suitable for a wide range of hikers.

  • Main approach: From Simplon Pass area

  • Ascent time: ~1.5–2.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~400–600 m

  • Terrain: Well-marked mountain trails, alpine meadows

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  This easy access makes the hut popular for short stays and family-friendly outings.

• Facilities & Comfort

  During the guarded season, the hut offers comfortable SAC-standard facilities.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity for lighting

  The winter room is basic and requires full self-sufficiency.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The Bortelhütte is well known for its welcoming atmosphere.

  • Traditional Swiss and Valais cuisine

  • Simple, hearty mountain meals

  • Friendly and social environment

  It often attracts hikers, mountain bikers, and ski tourers, depending on the season.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended during weekends and summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The hut is well positioned for varied, mostly non-technical objectives:

  • Day hikes above the Simplon Pass

  • Scenic loops across alpine pastures

  • Easy summit walks and viewpoints

  • Winter ski touring routes

  Most routes are suitable for regular hikers without glacier equipment.

• When to Go

  • Summer: June to September — hiking season

  • Autumn: Quiet, with stable weather possible

  • Winter: Popular ski touring base

  • Conditions: Generally stable, but fog and storms can develop quickly

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Casual and regular hikers

  • Families with mountain experience

  • Beginner to intermediate ski tourers

  • Photographers

  • Not intended for technical mountaineering

• Practical Tips

  • Book ahead on summer weekends

  • Bring layers — weather can change quickly

  • Carry cash as backup

  • Respect grazing livestock

  • Combine with Simplon Pass hikes for short itineraries

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

The Bortelhütte SAC stands out for its accessibility, friendly atmosphere, and panoramic setting above the Simplon Pass. It is an ideal introduction to alpine hut stays and a versatile base for relaxed hiking or ski touring in one of Valais’ broadest mountain landscapes.