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Alpine hut discounts: the Reciprocal Rights Card

If you are looking for some spectacular accommodation while walking, skiing or climbing in the Alps, Mountaineering Scotland members are able to purchase a card giving discounts on many huts owned by European Alpine clubs. 

The Reciprocity Fund, managed by the Swiss Alpine Club, enables the BMC to supply Mountaineering Scotland members with a card entitling the holder to discounts (normally between 20% and 50%) in huts owned by organisations including the Alpine Clubs of France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Holland, South Tyrol, Austria and Spain. The Reciprocal Rights Card is sometimes also recognised by organisations and countries that are not signatories to the fund charter.

The card is valid for one calendar year from January to December.  Income from their sale is redistributed among the Alpine clubs and used to maintain huts. Holders of this card will be offered free Alpine Club membership for one year on completion of an Alpine Club application form and satisfying the conditions for admission. The Alpine Club is the leading UK club for alpine climbers.

Picture courtesy of Climb Britain

  • The BMC administers the Reciprocal Rights scheme in the UK. Find out how to purchase a card from the BMC website.
  • You will need your Mountaineering Scotland individual membership number or name of your Mountaineering Scotland member club.

The cost of a night in a hut varies from country to country and region. High altitude huts are often more expensive, but typical costs for a night in a French hut (without discount) is around £50 per night for dinner, bed & breakfast, and can be more than that in Switzerland. For details on hut locations and services (such as when the hut is open or a guardian present) you should consult the relevant guidebook for the area or the local Tourist Offices.