The “Emilio Questa” Hut (2,388 m) stands on a rocky outcrop on the northern shore of Lake Portette, in the center of a wide valley surrounded by the peaks of Portette, Claus, and Prefouns. It is located in the municipality of Valdieri, in the Province of Cuneo, Italy. The hut overlooks the Valasco Valley, where the former hunting lodge of the Italian royal family stands (now also a mountain hut, the “Rifugio Valasco”). In the background to the west, Monte Matto and the Cresta Savoia rise prominently.
Located in the heart of the Maritime Alps Natural Park, the Questa Hut is an ideal base for exploring nature and spotting wildlife: chamois, ibex, marmots, and the elusive bearded vulture (lammergeier) are commonly seen in the area. It is also well-suited for climbers and hikers aiming to reach the surrounding peaks. The hut was originally a military barrack and was taken over by the Genoa section of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) in 1925, which managed it until 2018; nowadays, the hut is entirely privately owned and operated. The building was expanded and restored in 1937, and again in 1952 and 1986.
The main entrance opens into a wooden-furnished dining room where traditional Piedmontese meals are served. For shorter stops, there is also a bar. Sleeping accommodations include three shared dormitories on the ground and first floors, with 6, 14, and 10 beds, respectively. Additional sleeping options include a yurt (typical Asian tent) and several 2 places wooden huts nearby.
The hut is a stage on several local and international hiking trails, each with its own level of difficulty and features. Many other routes, although not passing directly by the Questa Hut, are nearby and easily accessible. Here are all the information you need.
The manager
Since June 2021, the hut has been managed by Marco Bassino. Born in 2001, he is a true child of the Cuneo Alps, particularly the Valasco area. His family owns a small hut there, and every summer his brother Matteo brings their flocks to graze in the high pastures. Their sister, Marta Bassino — one of Italy’s top alpine skiers — also honed her skills on the slopes of the Cuneo Alps. Just one year after graduating from high school, Marco seized the opportunity to take over the management of the Questa Hut. After navigating the necessary bureaucracy—with support from the Maritime Alps Natural Park—he became one of the youngest hut managers in Italy. His goal is to make the most of what the Questa Hut, a true gem of the Maritime Alps, has to offer its visitors. Day by day, Marco is committed to providing warm hospitality while blending tradition with innovation.
“The area around Lake Portette is one of the most stunning places you could ever stay. During my time in the Maritime Alps Natural Park, I often found myself coming back here, thinking it would be the perfect place to spend the night. Once the sun sets, complete darkness falls—it’s miles and miles from the nearest town or any source of light pollution. The night sky here is simply breathtaking, and well worth the hike to experience.”
— Marco