Margherita Hut (4554 m) – the highest mountain hut in Europe – is an ambitious goal for those who dream of high altitude. But reaching it takes respect, time… and strategy.
The silent enemy? Altitude sickness and acclimatisation challenges – a common issue that can ruin your experience if not properly managed.
To avoid altitude sickness and acclimatisation issues, a gradual approach is key. Sleeping at altitude – around 2200–2500 metres – is the best way to help your body adjust. Around Alagna, there are three huts that are perfect for this: Barba Ferrero, Ospizio Sottile, and Ferioli. More than just useful stops – they’re full of atmosphere and soul.
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness, AMS) occurs when ascending too quickly above 2000–2500 metres, where air pressure drops and oxygen becomes scarce.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert – your body still needs time to adapt. On Monte Rosa, with peaks above 4000 m, understanding this is essential.
Common symptoms: pounding headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, trouble sleeping. They may seem minor but should never be ignored.
Serious risks: if neglected, AMS can progress to HAPE (high-altitude pulmonary oedema) – with shortness of breath, wet cough, and cyanosis – or HACE (high-altitude cerebral oedema) – with confusion, coordination loss, and in extreme cases, coma. The key? Prevention and body awareness.
1. Barba Ferrero Hut (2247 m)
Tucked in Valsesia with glacier views, this hut is a warm and lively stop. Reach it via trail 207 past Rifugio Pastore, or take the summer shuttle to Alpe Fum Bitz to shorten the walk.
Andrea, the host, greets you with homemade polenta, stews, cakes, and a legendary 30-litre genepì bottle. Warm showers, mountain-view rooms, and a genuine atmosphere: acclimatising here feels like a treat.
2. Ospizio Sottile (2480 m)
The highest hut in Europe… back in 1825! Once a safe haven for emigrants crossing Colle Valdobbia, it still holds its historic charm.
A gentle and scenic path leads from Valle Vogna. Simple rooms, a small chapel, a vintage dance hall – every corner tells a story. A place to slow down and connect deeply with the mountains.
3. Ferioli Hut (2264 m)
Run by CAI volunteers, this hut offers postcard views of Monte Tagliaferro.
You can hike from Alagna-Pedemonte (direct trail) or take the longer scenic route from Rima San Giuseppe via Colle Mud.
Expect hearty soups, bread pudding, and options for dietary needs. The terrace is perfect for an alpine aperitif, and just 20 minutes away, there’s a magical viewpoint.
Besides helping your body acclimatise, they give you real mountain moments and heartfelt hospitality.
Barba Ferrero offers genuine warmth, stunning views, comfort, and flavour.
Ospizio Sottile takes you on a journey into history.
Ferioli is simple, scenic, and homey – come for the acclimatisation, stay for the soup and soul.
High altitude is no place for improvisation.
➡️ Join our mountaineering course with a UIAGM guide: learn how to use your gear, move safely on glaciers, and enjoy the mountains with confidence.
👉 Book your spot – get your lungs and heart ready: altitude requires technique, and the mountains ask for passion.
➡️ Ready for more? Sign up for the advanced mountaineering course: you’ll learn how to manage crevasse rescues and move safely on technical terrain and glaciers.
👉 Reserve your place now – the challenge rises, and so do you
