Cabane de la Tsa CAS – Alpine Hut & Hiking Base Guide

The Cabane de la Tsa CAS is a classic alpine hut located above the Val d’Hérens, positioned on a natural balcony beneath the Dent Blanche massif. Less extreme than the high-glacier huts of the region, it offers an excellent balance between accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The hut is widely used by experienced hikers, alpine trekkers, and mountaineers transitioning toward more demanding objectives.

• Hut Overview

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

  • Altitude: 2,606 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 50–55 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to late September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (CAS)

• Access & Approaches

  Access to the Cabane de la Tsa is alpine but non-technical.

  • Main approach: From Arolla

  • Ascent time: ~3.5–4.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,000–1,200 m

  • Terrain: Alpine trails, moraines, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3

  The route is well marked but physically demanding.

• Facilities & Comfort

  During the guarded season, the hut provides solid CAS comfort.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity for lighting

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

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and social, shared by hikers and alpinists alike.

  • Traditional Swiss alpine cuisine

  • Energy-rich meals

  • Panoramic dining room views

  Evenings are relaxed, often spent planning routes in the surrounding massif.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard CAS hut prices

  • Discounts: CAS member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane de la Tsa is well positioned for varied alpine objectives:

  • High-alpine hikes and viewpoints above the Val d’Hérens

  • Routes toward the Dent Blanche massif

  • Connections toward Bertolhütte and other high huts

  • Alpine traverses and ridge walks

  Some routes involve snowfields or glacier terrain later in the season.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, variable weather

  • Main risks: Sudden storms, snowfields early season

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Alpine trekkers

  • Mountaineers preparing higher objectives

  • High-mountain photographers

  • Not suitable for casual hikers

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,606 m, the Cabane de la Tsa CAS offers one of the most balanced hut experiences in the Val d’Hérens. Its accessible yet alpine setting, classic CAS comfort, and proximity to both hiking routes and serious mountaineering terrain make it a versatile and rewarding destination.