Cabane de Balavaux – Alpine Hut & Hiking Base Guide

The Cabane de Balavaux is a small, welcoming mountain hut located above the Val d’Hérens, in a quiet pastoral setting that contrasts with the region’s more technical high-alpine huts. Primarily oriented toward hiking and alpine pasture exploration, it offers a relaxed mountain atmosphere and serves as a pleasant overnight stop or lunch destination on longer valley routes.

• Hut Overview

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

  • Altitude: 2,020 m

  • Type: Mountain hut / alpine refuge (served seasonally)

  • Capacity: Approx. 20–25 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically summer season

    • Winter: usually closed or accessible only on request

  • Management: Local / private association

• Access & Approaches

  Access is straightforward and suitable for regular hikers.

  • Main approach: From villages in the Val d’Hérens

  • Hiking time: ~2–3 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~600–800 m

  • Terrain: Forest paths, alpine pastures, marked mountain trails

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  The route is scenic and non-technical, making it suitable for relaxed hiking days.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are simple but adequate for overnight stays.

  • Shared dormitory-style sleeping areas

  • Basic meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Simple toilets

  • Limited electricity or lighting

  Comfort level is modest, in keeping with its pastoral setting.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and friendly, often shared by hikers and locals.

  • Simple alpine cuisine

  • Local products when available

  • Quiet, relaxed evenings

  It is less busy than larger CAS/SAC huts.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Moderate

  • Booking: Recommended if staying overnight

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  • Day hikes above the Val d’Hérens

  • Alpine pasture walks and viewpoints

  • Links to higher trails and neighboring huts

  • Scenic loops suitable for multi-day treks

  Routes are mostly non-technical.

• When to Go

  • Best season: June to September

  • Conditions: Generally stable summer weather

  • Winter: Snow-covered; access limited

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Casual and regular hikers

  • Trekking enthusiasts

  • Families with mountain experience

  • Travelers seeking a quieter alpine stop

  • Not intended for technical mountaineering

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

The Cabane de Balavaux offers a peaceful and authentic alpine experience at a moderate altitude. Its pastoral surroundings, simple comfort, and calm atmosphere make it an excellent counterbalance to the more technical huts of the Val d’Hérens—ideal for hikers who value tranquility and landscape over altitude and exposure.