The Francesco Gonella Mountain Hut (3,071 m) is a modern alpine hut situated in Val Veny, in the Courmayeur area, on the Italian side of the Mont Blanc massif. Opened in 2011, the hut stands out for its futuristic architecture, combining wood and metal, which blends seamlessly into the high-altitude environment.

Situated near the Dôme Glacier, it serves as a vital base for the standard Italian route to Mont Blanc. This route, less frequented than the French route, retains a wilder and more isolated character, requiring greater mountaineering experience and skill.

Due to its location and purpose, the refuge, which is open only during the summer season, serves as a true high-mountain outpost and a prime starting point for those wishing to tackle an ascent of Mont Blanc away from the more well-trodden routes.

How to get there 

On foot:

The last useful car park is in Freney (pay-and-display). From here, you can reach La Visaille on foot or by bus; from there, a secured route leads to the refuge. The route crosses the Miage Glacier and rocky sections secured with chains, requiring glacier equipment and good preparation.
Difficulty: EEA hike for experienced hikers with equipment
Elevation gain: 1,400 m
Duration: 5 hours 50 minutes
Terrain: mountaineering

 

Services

Restaurant (only for clients) Restaurant bar (also open to the public)

Prices

Bed in a room with more than 4 beds
17,00 € - 34,00 €
Half board (price per person)
44,00 € - 57,00 €
Breakfast (price per person)
12,00 € - 13,00 €

Prices are valid from 01/12/2025 to 30/11/2026

How to get here

By car

Courmayeur motorway exit.
From the Courmayeur motorway exit carry on along strada statale (main road) 26 towards Mont Blanc up to La Saxe. Before you reach the snow sheds turn left, then right to go onto the local road towards Entrèves. After a few metres turn left and carry on along the road for Val Veny for approximately 7 km.
The last useful car park where you can leave your car is located in Loc. Fréney (for a fee).  
Please note that Val Veny is a restricted-access area. Public car parks are subject to a charge and, once they are full, the road leading into the valley is closed. It is possible to take the shuttle bus up. The refuge is only accessible on foot in summer.


By public transport

The nearest train station is in Aosta.
Scheduled Coach service as far as Courmayeur (approximately 15 trips a day).
It is possible to reach La Visaille taking the local line for Val Veny (approximately 12 trips a day).