Cabane Rambert CAS – High-Alpine Hut & Summit Base Guide

The Cabane Rambert CAS is a compact, high-alpine hut perched on rocky ground beneath the Mont Blanc de Cheilon, above the Val des Dix. Quiet, exposed, and distinctly mountaineering-oriented, it is primarily used as a summit base for Cheilon ascents and for demanding alpine routes in the Grande Dixence sector. This is a hut for experienced parties rather than casual hikers.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val des Dix / Mont Blanc de Cheilon sector, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,580 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 35–40 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 is alpine and sustained, reflecting the hut’s exposed position.

  • Main approach: From the Grande Dixence area (Val des Dix)

  • Ascent time: ~4–5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,400 m

  • Terrain: Alpine trails, moraines, rocky slabs, snowfields early season

  • Difficulty: T4 / alpine

  • Requirements: Sure-footedness, good route-finding, alpine experience

  Early-season snow or late-season ice can increase difficulty.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are functional and consistent with a small high-alpine CAS hut.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water (often snowmelt)

  • Indoor toilets

  • Limited electricity for lighting

  The winter room is basic and intended for fully autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and technical.

  • Simple, energy-rich alpine meals

  • Guests are mainly alpinists planning early summit starts

  • Quiet evenings focused on weather and conditions

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard CAS hut prices

  • Discounts: CAS member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended due to limited capacity

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Cabane Rambert is primarily a summit base:

  • Mont Blanc de Cheilon (3,869 m) – classic ascent

  • Alpine routes and traverses in the Cheilon massif

  • Glacier and mixed terrain link-ups toward neighboring huts (conditions dependent)

  Most objectives require full alpine and, at times, glacier equipment.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, fast-changing weather

  • Main risks: Rockfall, snowfields, storms

  Stable weather windows and early starts are essential.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced mountaineers and alpinists

  • Strong alpine climbers

  • Not suitable for casual hikers or beginners

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,580 m, the Cabane Rambert CAS offers an authentic, no-frills gateway to the Mont Blanc de Cheilon. Its quiet setting, direct access to serious alpine routes, and classic CAS character make it a rewarding base for mountaineers seeking commitment and solitude in the Grande Dixence region.