Signalkuppe

Signalkuppe (Punta Gnifetti) is a 4,554 m summit of the Monte Rosa massif, rising above the Alagna Valsesia valley in Piedmont, Italy. It sits on the Italian-Swiss border, facing the canton of Valais, and carries the highest mountain hut in Europe on its top.

What is Signalkuppe?

The peak is a sub-summit of Monte Rosa in the Pennine Alps. Its German-language name refers to "the Signal", a conspicuous rock gendarme on the east ridge known as Cresta Signal. The Italian name honours Giovanni Gnifetti, a priest from Alagna who made the first ascent in 1842. Below the summit lie glaciers such as the Gornergletscher and the Grenzgletscher on the Swiss side.

What stands on the summit?

The top is occupied by the Capanna Regina Margherita, named after Margherita of Savoy, Queen of Italy, and opened in 1893. It is the highest building in Europe and doubles as a research station where scientists carry out high-altitude and climate observations. Overnight stays are possible in summer, but beds are limited, so book well ahead.

How do you get to the top?

This is a glacier mountaineering objective. You need crampons, an ice axe, harness and rope, proper acclimatisation and, ideally, a mountain guide. There are two main approaches:

• Italian side: from Alagna, ride the cable car up to the Passo dei Salati, then continue by lifts towards the Indren glacier. From there a route leads to the Rifugio Gnifetti and Rifugio Città di Mantova huts, and onward across the glacier to the summit.
• Swiss side: from the Monte Rosa Hut across the Grenzgletscher.

From Rifugio Gnifetti or Città di Mantova, the summit day is usually one long outing on snow and ice.

When should you go?

Summer is the best season, when the huts and lifts operate and the glaciers are best trodden. Outside that window conditions are serious, with wind, deep cold and avalanche risk. Check the forecast and glacier conditions with local guides in Alagna before setting out.

What else is there nearby?

Alagna Valsesia is a former Walser settlement, founded by highlanders who moved here in the Middle Ages, and a convenient base for Monte Rosa. In the valley you can see traditional timber Walser houses, while higher up the scenery turns to glaciers and a ring of four-thousanders.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Signalkuppe?

4,554 m above sea level. Its other name is Punta Gnifetti.

Can you stay overnight at the summit?

Yes, at the Capanna Regina Margherita hut during the summer season. Places are few, so reserve early.

Do you need a guide?

The route crosses glaciers and requires roped-team skills. If you lack experience, go with a guide.

Where does the name Punta Gnifetti come from?

It honours Giovanni Gnifetti, who first stood on the summit in 1842.