Britanniahütte SAC – High-Alpine Hut Guide

The Britanniahütte SAC is one of the most iconic high-alpine huts in the Saas Valley, dramatically positioned above Saas-Fee with sweeping views over glaciers and 4,000-metre peaks. Well known for its accessibility and its role as a base for classic alpine ascents, it attracts both experienced hikers and mountaineers preparing for high-mountain objectives.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Above Saas-Fee, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 3,030 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 115–120 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to late September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  The Britanniahütte is one of the most accessible huts at this altitude.

  • Main approach: From Saas-Fee via the Plattjen area

  • Ascent time: ~2.5–3.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~850–1,000 m

  • Terrain: Well-marked alpine trails, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3

  The route is popular and exposed in places but technically straightforward in good conditions.

• Facilities & Comfort

  During the guarded season, the hut offers excellent comfort for a high-alpine environment.

  • Large dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

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

• Food & Atmosphere

  The Britanniahütte is known for its lively, international atmosphere.

  • Traditional Swiss and Valais dishes

  • Energy-rich meals for summit days

  • Spacious dining room with panoramic views

  Evenings often bring together climbers preparing early starts on nearby 4,000-metre peaks.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: Available for SAC members

  • Booking: Strongly recommended in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

  Due to its popularity, reservations are essential during peak season.

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Britanniahütte is a key base for classic alpine routes:

  • Allalinhorn (4,027 m) – via the Feejoch

  • Strahlhorn (4,190 m) – classic glacier ascent

  • Rimpfischhorn (4,199 m) – demanding alpine route

  • Glacier traverses toward the Mischabel and Allalin areas

  Most routes involve glacier travel and require full alpine equipment.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, rapidly changing weather

  • Main risks: Crevasses, icefall, storms

  Early starts are standard for summit days.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Mountaineers and alpinists

  • High-mountain photographers

  • Not suitable for beginners without alpine experience

• Practical Tips

  • Carry glacier equipment when planning ascents

  • Bring a hut sleeping bag liner

  • Start early for summit routes

  • Monitor weather forecasts closely

  • Respect hut rules and quiet hours

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

The Britanniahütte SAC combines accessibility, capacity, and a prime high-alpine location. Overlooking one of the most dramatic glacier landscapes in the Alps, it is an essential hub for classic 4,000-metre ascents and a landmark hut in the Saas-Fee region.