Monte-Leone-Hütte SAC – Alpine Hut & Monte Leone Summit Base

The Monte-Leone-Hütte SAC is a classic high-alpine hut located above the Simplon Pass, near the Italian border. It is best known as the primary base for ascents of Monte Leone (3,553 m), one of the dominant peaks of the Simplon region. Combining relatively accessible approaches with genuine high-mountain terrain, it serves both experienced alpine hikers and mountaineers.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Simplon Pass area, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,848 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 45–50 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually June to September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is alpine but comparatively straightforward for its altitude.

  • Main approach: From the Simplon Pass area

  • Hiking time: ~3–4 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~800–1,000 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, scree slopes, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3

  Early-season snowfields are common and may require caution.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The hut offers solid, traditional SAC comfort.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is basic and intended for autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and alpine, with a mix of hikers and alpinists.

  • Hearty alpine cuisine

  • Evenings focused on weather and route planning

  • Generally quieter than huts in major tourist regions

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended during summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Monte-Leone-Hütte is ideally placed for:

  • Monte Leone (3,553 m) – normal route (snow and rock)

  • Alpine hikes and scrambles in the Simplon massif

  • Winter and spring ski touring routes

  • Multi-day alpine circuits near the Swiss–Italian border

  Glacier equipment may be required depending on conditions and route choice.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Generally stable but exposed to weather changes

  • Main risks: Snowfields, fog, sudden storms

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpine hikers

  • Mountaineers targeting Monte Leone

  • Ski tourers (spring)

  • Travelers seeking a quieter high-alpine hut

  • Not intended for beginners without mountain experience

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,848 m, the Monte-Leone-Hütte SAC offers an excellent balance between accessibility and true alpine atmosphere. Its role as the gateway to Monte Leone and its location above the historic Simplon route make it a rewarding destination for those seeking high-mountain objectives without extreme remoteness.