Rifugio Barmasse Cignana
A picturesque rifugio nestled beside Lago di Cignana, offering stunning alpine views and a welcome stop for trekkers and cyclists.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Rifugio Barmasse Cignana
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque rifugio nestled beside Lago di Cignana, offering stunning alpine views and a welcome stop for trekkers and cyclists.
"A welcome 'rifugio' for a hot drink and/or nice Italian food after your trek or mountain bike ride just in front of Lago Cignana."
Confirm Overnight Policies
If you need a place to sleep, verify the rifugio's policy on dining room sleeping arrangements beforehand.
Scenic E-bike Route
Enjoy a fantastic e-bike ride with amazing landscapes around the lake and rifugio.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lago di Cignana
Adjacent to the Rifugio
A stunning alpine lake reflecting the surrounding peaks, perfect for photos and a peaceful break.
Rifugio Barmasse Views
Terrace and surrounding area
Breathtaking panoramic views of the Valtournenche valley and the Alps. Ideal for a scenic stop.
Alta Via 1 Trekking
Part of the route
A key waypoint for hikers on the Alta Via 1, offering a welcome respite and refreshments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Accommodation & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Overnight Policies
If you need a place to sleep, verify the rifugio's policy on dining room sleeping arrangements beforehand.
Scenic E-bike Route
Enjoy a fantastic e-bike ride with amazing landscapes around the lake and rifugio.
Post-Trek Refreshments
A great spot for a hot drink or Italian food after hiking or mountain biking.
Stunning Alpine Scenery
The area offers beautiful mountain views and is a picturesque stop on your journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Overnight Policies
If you need a place to sleep, verify the rifugio's policy on dining room sleeping arrangements beforehand.
Scenic E-bike Route
Enjoy a fantastic e-bike ride with amazing landscapes around the lake and rifugio.
Post-Trek Refreshments
A great spot for a hot drink or Italian food after hiking or mountain biking.
Stunning Alpine Scenery
The area offers beautiful mountain views and is a picturesque stop on your journey.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
Bring your furry friends along for the hike; they'll love the mountain environment!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rifugio Barmasse Cignana offers stunning views of Lago di Cignana and is a popular stop for trekkers and cyclists. While the location and scenery are consistently praised, some visitors have had negative experiences with accommodation policies and food quality.
"We stayed for a night while trekking the AV1. Modest but nice refuge. The food could be better. Rooms and toilet in a good shape. The three women who ran the place were very friendly."
Eyal Keren
"If i could give this place a 0 i would.
We arrived there on 18:00 pm, when the place was fully booked. We asked the boss for a place to sleep onside, because we didn't have any tent.
He agreed that we would sleep in the dining room as popular in other Refugios if there is no room.
We ate dinner, and on 11pm he asked us to leave saying that the place policy is that nobody sleeps in the dining room/bar. Obviously we could walk on 1800pm if he said so, but he decided to let us pay him for dinner and then kick us out to the cold. Paid 100 euros for a dinner for 3, and had to make an effort to find a nonwindy place to spend the cold night in. Luckily we found an abandoned hutt nearby.
No place that its target is to let travellers and hikers speep should treat hukers that way"
Elad Gat
"A welcome 'rifugio' for a hot drink and/or nice Italian food after your trek or mountain bike ride just in front of Lago Cignana. Definitely the Alps and Val d'Aosta offer great places."
Bruno Costacurta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The rifugio is accessible via hiking trails, including a section of the Alta Via 1, and also by mountain bike or e-bike. It's a popular destination for trekkers exploring the Valtournenche valley. 
Yes, it's a popular stop for mountain bikers and e-bike riders, offering scenic routes and a place to rest.
The rifugio is situated at an altitude of approximately 2200 meters (7218 feet) on the shores of Lago di Cignana.
Direct car access to the rifugio is generally not possible as it's located in a hiking area. Access is primarily on foot or by bike.
The rifugio is located in the Valtournenche valley, with Valtournenche being a nearby town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as the rifugio can get fully booked.
The rifugio is typically open during the summer trekking season. It's best to check their specific operating dates and hours before your visit.
There is no specific entrance fee to visit Lago di Cignana or the area around the rifugio; access is generally free for hikers and visitors.
Policies can vary, and some travelers have reported being asked to leave the dining room late at night. It's crucial to confirm this arrangement with the management upon arrival or in advance.
Generally, no special permits are required for day hikes or trekking on established trails like the Alta Via 1 in this region, but always check local regulations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The rifugio offers Italian food and refreshments, including hot drinks. While some find it a welcome stop, others suggest the food could be improved. +1
Yes, the rifugio is a popular spot for a hot drink or a meal for day hikers and bikers passing through.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's advisable to inquire directly with the rifugio if you have dietary restrictions.
Prices can vary, but one review mentioned paying 100 euros for dinner for three people, suggesting it can be on the higher side.
While the rifugio offers food, the surrounding area is beautiful and suitable for picnics if you bring your own supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is Lago di Cignana with the rifugio and surrounding mountains. The panoramic views from the rifugio's terrace are also spectacular.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography, with the lake often reflecting the sky and peaks.
While not guaranteed, the alpine environment can offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. Always maintain a respectful distance.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and park rules. It's essential to check for any restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and the lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the rifugio offers refreshments, it's wise to pack snacks and drinks for younger children. The stunning alpine scenery provides a wonderful backdrop for introducing kids to the beauty of the mountains. Ensure everyone is dressed appropriately for the mountain weather, which can change quickly.
🚶 Hikers and Trekkers
+1Be prepared for a significant ascent, which can be challenging but rewarding. The beauty of Lago di Cignana makes the effort worthwhile. If planning an overnight stay, it's essential to book well in advance and confirm all accommodation details to ensure a comfortable experience.
🚴 Cyclists and E-Bikers
This destination is perfect for a day trip where you can enjoy the ride, the scenery, and a well-deserved break at the rifugio. The combination of natural beauty and accessible trails makes it a prime spot for cycling enthusiasts looking for an adventure in the Italian Alps.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking the Alta Via 1
+1Travelers on the AV1 often appreciate the rifugio's location directly on the shores of Lago di Cignana, providing a picturesque setting to relax. While the rifugio itself is described as modest but nice, the surrounding landscape is consistently praised. It's important for AV1 trekkers to be aware of the rifugio's policies, particularly regarding accommodation, as experiences can vary. Planning your meals and sleeping arrangements in advance is key to a smooth journey on this iconic trail.
Cycling and E-Biking Adventures
+1For mountain bikers, the trails leading to and from the rifugio provide excellent opportunities for adventure. The combination of natural terrain and the stunning backdrop of the Alps makes for an unforgettable cycling trip. Whether you're a seasoned mountain biker or enjoying a leisurely e-bike ride, the journey to Rifugio Barmasse Cignana promises spectacular scenery and a refreshing break at the lake.
Understanding Accommodation Experiences
This highlights the importance of clear communication and confirmed arrangements when planning an overnight stay. If you are relying on the rifugio for shelter and do not have a tent, it is crucial to get explicit confirmation of sleeping arrangements, especially if you are arriving late or if the rifugio appears to be fully booked. Understanding the rifugio's specific rules regarding sleeping in common areas is paramount to avoid unexpected and unpleasant situations.
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