Located across Europe’s diverse mountain landscapes, certain huts offer unique and memorable stays, combining spectacular views, challenging hikes, and historical intrigue.
Cabaña Verónica, Spain
Nestled in the Picos de Europa, Cabaña Verónica stands at 2,325 metres and is reached after a demanding two-hour hike from the nearest cable car station. Sleeping only six visitors, this hut features remarkable views and hospitality from its caretaker. Interesting historical connotations stem from its origin as a gun turret of a US navy battleship, transported and reassembled by engineering enthusiast Conrado Senties in 1960.
Låktatjåkko, Sweden
Lying over 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Låktatjåkko hut sits 1,228 metres high in the Swedish mountains. This winter haven offers comfort amid harsh weather, although its snow-laden exterior can make it difficult to locate. Visitors enjoy heated lounges—and a reprieve from phone service—while dining on waffles topped with cloudberry jam. Note that harsh weather often necessitates long stays, and skiing conditions can be extreme.
Gaustatoppen, Norway
Situated on the peak of Gaustatoppen, the highest in Telemark, this hut offers a captivating journey via a funicular railway hidden within the granite mountainside, a legacy of Cold War infrastructure. The hut, dating back to 1893, is accessible in winter weekends, allowing for skiing while enjoying views that may stretch across a sixth of Norway on clear days.
Chata pod Rysmi, Slovakia
This Slovakian hut is poised for early risers aiming to watch dawn from the summit of Rysy at 2,501 metres. Operating between 1 June and 31 October due to its volatile environment, it is a testament to traditional yet basic amenities amidst rugged nature.
Kredarica on Triglav, Slovenia
At the doorstep to Slovenia’s highest summit, Triglav, this hut is a necessary stop for many travellers, creating summer crowds. As an alternative, winter offers fewer comforts but significantly less traffic for those making the icy ascent.
Le Refuge de Ciottulu di Mori, Corsica
Part of the GR20 trail, Ciottulu exemplifies Corsica’s timeless mountain hospitality, offering a simple dormitory at 2,000 metres. Reachable only by foot and supplied by mule, it provides an unvarnished yet memorable mountain adventure.
Breiðuvik, Iceland
Located on Iceland’s eastern coast, this hut is embraced by volcanic beaches and the remnants of forsaken villages. A part of a network of accommodation run by the Icelandic Touring Association, it balances bunkroom simplicity with breathtaking coastal wilderness.
Scotland’s Mountain Bothies
Scottish bothies give an alternative to traditional mountain huts, often repurposed from old cottages and offering varying levels of comfort from stone benches to wood burners. They encourage community and self-sufficiency, though some are affected by overuse.
Rifugio Nuvolau, Italy
In Italy’s Dolomites, Rifugio Nuvolau, dating to 1883, stands out for its dramatic sunsets and remote location accessible solely by foot. Meals include a delectable three-course dinner, enjoyed from its spectacular vantage point.
Rifugio Lagazuoi, Italy
Another gem in the Dolomites, Lagazuoi has evolved from a climber’s refuge to a tourist-accessible retreat famous for its scenic terrace. It also holds historical significance with preserved war tunnels and terraces from World War I.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.