Cabane du Fenestral – Alpine Hut & Hiking Base Guide

The Cabane du Fenestral is a small and characterful mountain hut located above the Val de Salanfe, in the western Valais. Quiet, scenic, and strongly rooted in alpine pasture culture, it serves primarily as a hiking and trekking hut, appreciated for its panoramic views over the Salanfe basin and its calm, traditional atmosphere. It is often used as a stage on regional multi-day hiking itineraries.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val de Salanfe, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,453 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 20–25 sleeping places

  • Season: Typically June to September (conditions dependent)

  • Management: Local / private association

• Access & Approaches

  Access to the Cabane du Fenestral is scenic and moderately demanding.

  • Main approach: From the Salanfe / Van d’en Bas area

  • Hiking time: ~3–4 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~900–1,100 m

  • Terrain: Alpine pastures, rocky paths, well-marked mountain trails

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  The approach is non-technical but sustained, offering wide views throughout.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are simple and consistent with a traditional alpine refuge.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping areas

  • Meals available during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Basic toilets

  • Limited or no electricity

  Comfort is modest, focused on rest and shelter rather than amenities.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and intimate.

  • Simple alpine cuisine

  • Local products when available

  • Quiet evenings with panoramic sunset views

  The hut is rarely crowded, even in high summer.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Moderate

  • Booking: Recommended for overnight stays

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane du Fenestral is well placed for classic hiking routes:

  • Balcony hikes above the Val de Salanfe

  • Connections to Cabane de Susanfe and neighboring valleys

  • Alpine pasture circuits and scenic viewpoints

  • Regional multi-day trekking itineraries

  Routes are hiking-focused and non-technical.

• When to Go

  • Best season: June to September

  • Conditions: Generally stable, but weather can change quickly

  • Main risks: Fog, storms, early-season snow

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Regular hikers

  • Trekking enthusiasts

  • Travelers seeking quiet alpine settings

  • Landscape photographers

  • Not intended for technical mountaineering

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,453 m, the Cabane du Fenestral offers a peaceful and authentic alpine experience above the Val de Salanfe. Its traditional character, scenic setting, and connection to classic hiking routes make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the region away from busier, more technical high-alpine huts.