Cabane Arpitettaz CAS – Alpine Hut Guide

The Cabane Arpitettaz CAS is a classic high-alpine hut located above the Val d’Anniviers, in a rugged and glaciated environment close to the Zinalrothorn massif. Less frequented than some neighboring huts, it offers experienced hikers and alpinists a quiet base with direct access to serious alpine terrain, glaciers, and demanding summit routes.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val d’Anniviers (above Zinal), Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,786 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 (CAS)

• Access & Approaches

  Access to the Cabane Arpitettaz is physically demanding and clearly alpine in character.

  • Main approach: From Zinal

  • Ascent time: ~4–5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,400 m

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

  • Difficulty: T3–T4

  • Requirements: Good fitness, sure-footedness, mountain experience

  The final section feels remote and exposed, especially in unstable weather.

• Facilities & Comfort

  During the guarded season, the hut provides 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 autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Meals are simple, hearty, and suited to long alpine days. The atmosphere is calm and focused, shared mainly by alpinists preparing early starts for glacier routes and summit ascents.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended during summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

  Due to limited capacity and remoteness, reservations are advisable.

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane Arpitettaz is primarily a mountaineering base:

  • Zinalrothorn (4,221 m) – via demanding alpine routes

  • Glacier routes in the surrounding basins

  • High-alpine traverses toward neighboring huts

  • Serious alpine hikes for experienced parties

  Most routes require glacier travel and full alpine equipment.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, rapidly changing weather

  • Main risks: Rockfall, crevasses, snowfields, 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 or casual hikers

• Practical Tips

  Practical Tips

  • Start the ascent early due to length and exposure

  • Carry sufficient water for the approach

  • Bring a hut sleeping bag liner

  • Check glacier and weather conditions carefully

  • Respect hut rules and quiet hours

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

The Cabane Arpitettaz CAS offers a quieter, more committed alpine experience in the Val d’Anniviers. Its combination of isolation, classic SAC character, and direct access to serious high-mountain routes makes it a rewarding destination for experienced alpinists seeking authenticity and solitude.