Cabane des Violettes CAS – Alpine Hut & Glacier Plateau Base Guide

The Cabane des Violettes CAS is a large and accessible alpine hut located above Crans-Montana, on the edge of the Plaine Morte glacier plateau. Thanks to its strategic position and easy access, it serves as a key base for glacier hikes, ski touring, and long-distance alpine crossings linking central Valais with the Bernese Alps. It combines high-alpine scenery with relatively efficient logistics.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Crans-Montana / Plaine Morte, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,200 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 80–90 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically June to October

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (CAS)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is straightforward for an alpine hut and suitable for strong hikers.

  • Main approach: From Crans-Montana (via marked mountain trails or ski-area infrastructure)

  • Hiking time: ~2.5–3.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~700–900 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, ski pistes, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  Despite the moderate approach, the surrounding terrain becomes serious once on the glacier plateau.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The Cabane des Violettes offers a high level of comfort for its altitude.

  • Large dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is functional but requires self-sufficiency.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is lively and international, especially in summer.

  • Traditional Swiss alpine cuisine

  • Energy-rich meals for glacier days

  • Mix of hikers, ski tourers, and alpine trekkers

  Evenings are often social, with route planning for Plaine Morte crossings.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard CAS hut prices

  • Discounts: CAS member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended, especially during summer and ski-touring season

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane des Violettes is a gateway to wide alpine terrain:

  • Glacier hikes and crossings on the Plaine Morte

  • Traverses toward Lenk / Wildstrubel region

  • Ski touring routes in winter and spring

  • Long-distance alpine trekking itineraries

  Glacier routes require appropriate equipment and conditions.

• When to Go

  • Summer: June to September (hiking & glacier trekking)

  • Winter/Spring: Ski touring season

  • Main risks: Fog and whiteouts on the plateau, crevasses, sudden storms

  Early starts and good visibility are essential on the glacier.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Glacier trekkers

  • Ski tourers

  • Long-distance alpine trekkers

  • Not suitable for casual walkers without alpine awareness

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,200 m, the Cabane des Violettes CAS offers a rare combination of accessibility and true high-alpine scope. Its position on the Plaine Morte makes it an essential base for glacier crossings and long alpine journeys, while still providing the comfort and capacity needed for larger groups and multi-day itineraries.