Aosta

The Capanna Aosta Refuge situated on a ridge east of the end section of the Tza de Tzan glacier, on the summit of the Valpelline, is owned by the C.A.I. (Italian Alpine Club) of Aosta and is a very interesting destination for all those wishing to savour the temptations of the Alps from close range, passing close to imposing glaciers which are now shrinking. It is the starting point for numerous mountain itineraries.

How to get there in summer

On foot:   Starting from the dam at Place Moulin (1,980 m), follow trail 9 to Prarayer. Then take trail 10/10A to the refuge.  Please note: the final section is classified as EEA – a hike for experienced hikers with equipment.
Difficulty: E + EEA – hiking +  for experienced hikers with equipment
Elevation gain: 800 m
Duration: 4h15 

How to get there in winter / Spring

Please note the road closure order from Bionaz to the dam 
Check the avalanche bulletin;  a rescue kit (Avalanche Transceiver, shovel and probe) is mandatory.

Ski mountaineering: from the Place Moulin dam, head to Prarayer following the summer path (possibly by bike, if the road is clear), or walk 5–6 km on flat ground.  Just past the Prarayer refuge, ascend along the right-hand side of the valley following the summer path, or along the left-hand side crossing the small bridge and leaving the obvious hill blocking the valley on your left. Under no circumstances (whether ascending or descending) should you enter the gorge!
Elevation gain: 800 m.
Exposure: variable