Guide Val D'Ayas al Lambronecca

Situated on a large rocky spike which springs up out of the Grande Ghiacciaio di Verra, the Guide di Ayas mountain hut at Lambronecca is perhaps one of the most interesting and demanding destinations in the Valle d'Ayas. The refuge was opened in 1989. The building, in metal, brickwork and wood, is imposing as a result of its size. Great care has been taken over the interiors.

Located on the Grande Ghiacciaio di Verra glacier, you find yourself surrounded by ice. In fact, this refuge is the starting point for climbing parties heading for peaks such as Castore and Polluce, Breithorn and Schwarztor, with its passage through Switzerland, and the Tour Alto del Monte Rosa.  The southern spurs of these peaks are particularly impressive, as is the view down into the valley, which on clear evenings even offers a glimpse of the distant Monviso.

The refuge has 72 beds, divided between small and large rooms, equipped with blankets and, on request, sheets. The structure also offers a large room with a bar area and a high-altitude kitchen serving healthy, authentic food. The bar and restaurant service is available both to guests staying overnight and to those who wish to stop for a good lunch after climbing to the refuge.

How to get there in summer

on foot, in about 5 hours' walk from Saint-Jacques (1,689 m) along trail no. 7.
Difficulty : the route is classified as E (excurtion route) up to the Mezzalama Refuge and then becomes EE (experienced hikers) with a section on scree/snowfield.
Elevation gain : about 1,736 m.

How to get there in spring

Ski mountaineering: access to the refuge in spring, by ski , is via the summer route. There are sections of the route that are potentially prone to avalanches; always check the avalanche report before setting out. It is compulsory to carry avalanche rescue equipment (ARTVA, shovel and probe).