Cabane des Audannes – Alpine Hut & Trekking Base Guide

The Cabane des Audannes is a well-positioned mountain hut above Anzère, set on the transition between alpine pastures and higher limestone terrain. Widely used by hikers and long-distance trekkers, it is a practical and welcoming stop on multi-day itineraries across central Valais, including stages that link the Sanetsch area with the Rawyl region.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Above Anzère, central Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,492 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 30–35 sleeping places

  • Season: Typically June to September (conditions dependent)

  • Management: Local / private association

• Access & Approaches

  Access is straightforward but physically demanding, typical of high alpine trekking stages.

  • Main approach: From Anzère

  • Hiking time: ~3–4.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~900–1,200 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, pastures, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3

  Navigation is generally easy in good weather, but fog can reduce visibility on the plateaus.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are simple yet comfortable for overnight trekking use.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping areas

  • Meals available during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Toilets

  • Limited electricity or lighting

  Comfort is functional and well suited to recovery between long stages.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, reflecting its role as a stage hut.

  • Simple, hearty alpine meals

  • Frequent mix of multi-day hikers and local walkers

  • Calm evenings focused on rest and planning

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Moderate

  • Booking: Recommended, especially in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

  Capacity can fill quickly during peak trekking season.

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane des Audannes is primarily a trekking hub:

  • Stage stop on multi-day crossings between Anzère, Sanetsch, and Rawyl

  • Long-distance alpine trekking routes in central Valais

  • Day hikes to panoramic viewpoints and plateaus

  • Snowshoe and ski-touring terrain in winter (conditions permitting)

  Routes are generally non-technical but physically demanding.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Wind exposure and fast-changing weather possible

  • Main risks: Fog, storms, fatigue due to long distances

  Early starts are advisable on traverse days.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Long-distance alpine trekkers

  • Experienced hikers

  • Groups completing multi-day routes

  • Landscape photographers

  • Not intended for technical mountaineering

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,492 m, the Cabane des Audannes stands out as a reliable and well-placed stage hut in central Valais. Its strength lies in connectivity rather than altitude—providing shelter, food, and rhythm for hikers moving across wide alpine plateaus and linking valleys on demanding, rewarding journeys.