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Nearby routes
Best routes near At the Foot of the Matterhorn
4.8
(54)
376
hikers
12.4km
04:55
780m
780m
The Ascent to Rifugio Oriondé – Circular Tour is a difficult hike in the Pennine Alps, offering a significant alpine experience. This challenging route covers 7.7 miles (12.4 km) with a substantial elevation gain of 2556 feet (779 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 55 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll immerse yourself in an alpine landscape, with options for a wide dirt road or steeper shortcuts. A key part of the journey is the narrow ridge trail leading to the Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi all'Oriondé. From the refuge, you can see the iconic Matterhorn from its south side, the surrounding valleys, and the vast Plateau Rosà. Along the way, you will also pass the charming Chiesa degli Alpini and a picturesque waterfall.
This hard hike demands good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes. You should have prior alpine experience, as some sections may involve technical or hazardous terrain, potentially requiring specialist equipment. The ascent to the refuge from Breuil-Cervinia involves about 800 to 900 meters of climbing, typically taking two and a half hours. Remember to prepare for a substantial elevation gain and ensure you are well-equipped for alpine conditions.
The Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi all'Oriondé is a historic mountain hut, built in 1929, perched at 2,802 meters. It serves as a vital base for mountaineers and is a well-known starting point for the Matterhorn's Italian normal route. For hikers, it offers comfortable accommodation with 22 beds, modern amenities, and a restaurant serving traditional Aosta Valley cuisine. A further 30-minute walk from the refuge leads to the Carrel Cross, providing an even wider view of the surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as mountain goats, during your hike.
4.8
(66)
510
hikers
9.21km
04:38
850m
850m
Prepare for a challenging hike on the Trail to Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi (via Route 13), a difficult route that climbs 2785 feet (849 metres) over 5.7 miles (9.2 km). As you ascend, you'll leave behind village streets for rugged mountain paths, with the sound of cascading water from Torrente Porteiller waterfalls accompanying your climb. The trail offers increasingly dramatic views of the Matterhorn, culminating in a spectacular panorama from the rifugio.
This route typically takes around 4 hours and 38 minutes to complete, so plan your day accordingly. You can begin your journey from Cervinia's center, following the yellow trail markers for Route 13. If you are driving, parking is available on side streets off Via Circonvallazione in Cervinia, making for convenient access to the trailhead. Always check local conditions before you set out, especially for a hike of this difficulty.
This trail is often called the "gateway to the Matterhorn," offering a unique perspective on the iconic peak. Along the way, you'll pass the small Alpini Chapel, a memorial with excellent views of the Matterhorn. Once you reach Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi, you can enjoy homemade tiramisu and coffee, or continue further to Croce Carrel, a memorial and viewpoint honoring the legendary guide Jean Antoine Carrel.
4.7
(36)
205
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,730 m
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Monday 29 June
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4°C
43 %
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Max wind speed: 1.0 km/h
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