The Aurina Valley in the Italian Alps, more often referred to as "Valle Aurina" or "Ahrntal", is now home to a very special mountain hut called "Sasso Nero". This spectacular prefabricated mountain hut, which is located at an altitude of 3,026 metres, can withstand storms and has a low environmental impact thanks to its prefabrication system.
This unique mountain refuge is 6 storeys high and only touches the ground with its narrow foundations which are anchored to the rock. The first floor houses the restaurant and dining area, with a window offering a 360° panoramic view of the incredible mountain scenery, offering unbeatable views of the Italian Alps. The 2 lower levels have a range of facilities, while the 3 upper floors have accommodation for up to 50 guests. The rooms are designed to accommodate between 2 and 10 people.
The interior of this mountain accommodation is made entirely of wood, while the exterior is clad in copper, a material extracted from nearby mines, and the construction of this mountain refuge took two summers to complete due to its difficult and unique location. The structure was prefabricated in the valley before being hoisted into place by a crane, which was also dismantled into several pieces. Everything reached the mountain via a specially built cable car, and this system helped to minimise the number of helicopter flights. The double basement was also built using prefabricated concrete elements.
If you plan to visit this stunning mountain structure for a idyllic stay in the Italian Alps, then take note that this is a hotel for keen mountain walkers. To get to Sasso Nero in the current snowy conditions, it is necessary to climb up from the valley, a route that usually takes around three and a half hours.
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