Highlight • Mountain Hut
Selleries Hut
Hiking
4.9
(124)
Mountain biking
5.0
(29)
Rifugio Selleries is a historic mountain hut nestled in the heart of the Orsiera – Rocciavrè Regional Natural Park, within the Cottian Alps in Piedmont, Italy. Standing at 2064 metres above sea level in the Val Chisone, near the municipality of Roure, this welcoming refuge has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s and serves as a key hub for exploring the park's natural beauty.
Visitors consistently rave about the warm hospitality, the excellent food featuring local produce, and the stunning panoramic environment surrounding the hut. Many appreciate the pleasant company of the managers and the overall inviting atmosphere, making it a celebrated stop and an ideal base for beautiful excursions in the area.
For those planning a visit, it's helpful to know that Rifugio Selleries is accessible year-round. In summer, from June to October, it can be reached by car via a 5 km dirt road, though some hikers prefer routes from Villaretto to avoid traffic. During the winter months, from October to June, visitors typically park at Pracatinat and enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour walk to the refuge. Given its popularity and ease of access, especially in summer, the refuge can be quite crowded, so planning your arrival is recommended.
Rifugio Selleries serves as an excellent base for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, making it a versatile destination. In summer, it's a starting point for numerous hiking and mountaineering routes, including ascents to peaks like Monte Orsiera and Punta Cristalliera, and is a key stop on the "Giro dell'Orsiera" trekking route. In winter, the area transforms into a haven for snowshoeing, ski mountaineering, and cross-country skiing, with a regularly groomed track connecting it to Prà Catinat.
The refuge offers a genuine experience of alpine hospitality, with its spacious restaurant serving local cheeses and zero-kilometer meats, alongside vegetarian and vegan options. Beyond the food, the location provides a true sense of immersion in nature, with opportunities for educational environmental activities focusing on the rich local flora and fauna.
Whether you're seeking challenging trails or easy hikes, the area around Rifugio Selleries offers diverse options for all skill levels. To discover the best hikes near Rifugio Selleries hut and plan your adventure, explore the many routes available on komoot, which cater to hikers, trail runners, and cyclists looking to experience the beauty of the Orsiera – Rocciavrè Natural Park.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Parco Naturale Orsiera-Rocciavrè
Tips
May 17, 2020
Hiking
Great welcome, good food and wonderful excursions to do in the area.
•September 2, 2020
Hiking
•May 11, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Selleries Hut
4.8
(16)
112
hikers
11.2km
05:49
990m
990m
Alpine trail through stone villages to Rifugio Selleries, famous for warm hospitality and mountain stories.
4.8
(16)
109
hikers
12.6km
05:55
990m
1,000m
This difficult 7.8-mile hike in Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park leads to Selleries Refuge, offering alpine scenery and traditional hamlets.
4.7
(19)
97
hikers
6.36km
03:33
610m
620m
Prepare for a challenging hike on the Lago Laus and Colle Superiore di Malanotte Trail, a difficult route spanning 4.0 miles (6.4 km). You will ascend 1997 feet (609 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, making it a demanding journey. The path leads you through varied terrain, including steep sections and loose rocks as you climb towards Colle Superiore di Malanotte. Your efforts are rewarded with sweeping views of the Chisone Valley and the impressive Punta Cristalliera. The trail culminates at the tranquil Lago Laus, a natural lake set in a green basin, complete with a unique islet.
When planning your visit, be aware that the road to Rifugio Selleries is typically closed from November 1st to May 31st. During these months, you will need to start your hike from Pra Catinat, which significantly increases both the distance and elevation gain. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for snow and ice, as certain steep sections may require specialized gear like ice axes and crampons. Always exercise caution, especially near any waterfall descents, as surfaces can be slippery.
This route offers a deep dive into the natural beauty of Parco Naturale Orsiera-Rocciavrè, showcasing its rugged alpine landscape. The journey provides a unique perspective on the region's geology and ecosystems, from the challenging ascent to the serene lake environment. It stands out as a rewarding option for experienced hikers seeking both physical exertion and stunning natural scenery within the park.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,060 m
Weather
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Tuesday 5 May
7°C
3°C
88 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended hiking routes starting from Rifugio Selleries?
Rifugio Selleries is an excellent base for various excursions. Popular routes include ascents to peaks like Monte Orsiera (2890 m) and Punta Cristalliera (2801 m). It's also a key stopping point on the multi-day trekking route, the Giro dell'Orsiera. For those seeking easier options, there are numerous trails around the green plateau suitable for all skill levels.
Is Rifugio Selleries accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Rifugio Selleries is designed to be accessible. The facility includes an elevator that connects the restaurant area to the upper floors, making it easier for guests with disabilities to move around the refuge.
What are the sleeping arrangements and facilities like at Rifugio Selleries?
The refuge offers 14 rooms with a total of 70 beds, available as double or bunk beds. While some rooms may have private facilities, there are shared bathrooms and showers on each floor, all equipped with always-available hot water.
What kind of food can I expect at the refuge's restaurant?
The spacious restaurant at Rifugio Selleries emphasizes sustainability and local produce. You can expect a menu featuring local cheeses and zero-kilometer meats, alongside a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Visitors consistently praise the excellent quality of the food.
Are dogs allowed at Rifugio Selleries or on nearby trails?
While the refuge is known for its welcoming atmosphere, specific dog policies for staying overnight or on all trails within the Orsiera – Rocciavrè Natural Park can vary. It's always best to contact the refuge directly before your visit to confirm their current dog policy and any specific rules for trails you plan to explore with your pet.
How crowded does Rifugio Selleries get, especially on weekends?
Rifugio Selleries is a very popular destination, especially due to its accessibility by car in summer. Visitor tips indicate it can get very crowded, particularly on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended if you want to avoid peak crowds, especially for parking.
What are the options for reaching Rifugio Selleries by public transport?
Direct public transport to Rifugio Selleries is limited. In winter, visitors typically park at Pracatinat and then walk approximately 1.5 hours to the refuge. For summer access, while you can drive a 5 km dirt road, some hikers prefer routes from Villaretto to avoid traffic. It's advisable to plan your journey considering these access points rather than direct public transport to the hut itself.
What winter activities are available around Rifugio Selleries?
In winter, the area around Rifugio Selleries transforms into a haven for snowshoeing, ski mountaineering, and cross-country skiing. There's a regularly groomed track connecting the refuge to Prà Catinat, making it an ideal spot for winter sports enthusiasts.
Are there any educational or guided activities offered at the refuge?
Yes, the refuge collaborates with naturalistic guides to offer educational environmental activities, focusing on the rich local flora and fauna of the Orsiera – Rocciavrè Regional Natural Park. Alpine guides can also arrange sport-specific activities such as climbing, snowshoe excursions, and mountain orientation techniques.
What is the best way to avoid traffic or crowded parking during peak season?
During the summer months when the 5 km dirt road to the refuge is open, parking can fill up quickly. Many experienced hikers suggest approaching the refuge from Villaretto as an alternative to avoid traffic and potential parking issues at the main access point. Arriving early in the day is also a good strategy.
Can I find other accommodation or amenities near Rifugio Selleries?
Rifugio Selleries itself offers 70 beds and a restaurant. The refuge is nestled within the Orsiera – Rocciavrè Regional Natural Park, near the municipality of Roure. While the immediate vicinity is natural parkland, you would typically find additional amenities, cafes, pubs, or hotels in the larger towns like Roure or Fenestrelle, which are further down the valley.