Rothornhütte SAC – High-Alpine Hut & Rothorn Summit Base

The Rothornhütte SAC is a classic high-alpine hut set above Zinal, in the Val d’Anniviers, beneath the dramatic peaks of the Weisshorn massif. It is best known as the primary base for ascents of the Zinalrothorn (4,221 m) and for demanding alpine routes in the surrounding granite terrain. This is a focused mountaineering hut, combining serious access with a rewarding alpine atmosphere.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Zinal / Weisshorn massif, Val d’Anniviers, Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 3,198 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 70–75 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to mid-September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Reaching the Rothornhütte is demanding and unmistakably alpine.

  • Main approach: From Zinal

  • Ascent time: ~5–6 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,400–1,600 m

  • Terrain: Steep alpine paths, moraines, exposed rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T4

  Sure-footedness, good fitness, and comfort with exposure are essential.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The hut provides reliable SAC-standard comfort at high altitude.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water (managed supply)

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

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

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is focused and alpine.

  • Energy-rich alpine meals

  • Guests are mainly alpinists and experienced hikers

  • Evenings revolve around weather, route conditions, and early starts

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Essential, particularly in peak summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Rothornhütte is a major launch point for:

  • Zinalrothorn (4,221 m) – classic routes

  • Alpine climbs in the Weisshorn massif

  • Demanding granite ridges and mixed routes

  • Multi-day alpine link-ups in the Val d’Anniviers

  All routes require full alpine equipment and experience.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to early September

  • Conditions: Cold nights, rapid weather changes

  • Main risks: Rockfall, storms, altitude effects

  Stable weather windows and early departures are critical.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced mountaineers

  • Guided alpine parties

  • Climbers targeting 4,000 m peaks

  • Not suitable for casual hikers or beginners

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 3,198 m, the Rothornhütte SAC offers direct access to one of Switzerland’s most elegant 4,000 m summits and some of the finest granite terrain in the Alps. Its combination of altitude, commitment, and classic alpine objectives makes it a cornerstone of serious mountaineering in the Val d’Anniviers.