The unique experience of an overnight stay in a mountain refuge in summer

Highlights: set in the heart of the Tuéda nature reserve, just a stone’s throw from the lake of the same name. 30-minute walk from the Plan Ravet car park in Méribel Mottaret.

Opening dates: daily in July and August.

Capacity: the refuge du Plan does not provide accommodation.

Other: restaurant on site only at lunchtime.

Highlights: this is the type of mountain refuge you dream of... This unique place combines the elegance of beautiful luxury properties with the character of a traditional mountain refuge. Comprised of typical chalets, the hamlet is set 10km from the nearest tarmac road.

Opening dates: from June 14 to September 29.

Capacity: 6 bedrooms.

Other: restaurant (20 covers inside, 35 on the terrace, pets allowed (supplement), well-being area & spa, Wifi and cinema room.

Opening dates: From June 15 to September 15.

Highlights: having been closed for a long period of time for renovations, this former sheepfold reopened in July 2020. Nestling at the end of the Avals valley, at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park, and perched at 2,300 metres beneath the Merlet Lakes, this gem of nature provides direct access to a variety of landscapes, from the glacial summits of the Mont Blanc mountain range to the lush green pastures of Grand Plan, with many lakes along the way.

Capacity: several bedrooms and dormitories that sleep 2, 3, 4 and 12. 30 beds, payable camping available.

Other: lounge, reading and games area, pets allowed except in dining areas.

Good to know: because the refuge has been closed for several years, it is not included on all hiking orientation boards yet. Follow signs for Lacs Merlet.

Opening dates: from June 14 to September 15, weekend bookings possible in September and October, free access the rest of the year.

Highlights: you’ll feel like you’re at the ends of the earth in this cosy, quiet refuge in the heart of the Vanoise National Park, on the edge of the Merlet Lakes.

Capacity: 6 beds (and 10 people as a group), camping possible.

Good to know: this small refuge does not have a shower. Guests should bring their own sleeping bags and slippers.

Opening dates: from May to October. It may open at other times on request, subject to weather conditions. Reservations are recommended.

Highlights: In a timeless, protected setting, the refuge is accessible in 30 to 40 minutes on foot from the village of Saint-Jean-de-Belleville. Perched at an altitude of 1,764 metres, it blends in perfectly with this unspoilt, wild valley at the foot of the majestic Cheval Noir. Birthdays and family meals can be arranged...

Capacity: 21 beds in total. 5 bedrooms with 2 to 6 beds in each.

Good to know: part of the refuge is accessible (on prior booking with the warden to collect the keys) out of season, with a bedroom for 6 (with fitted sheets, pillows and blankets provided), a kitchen/dining room with a wood-burning stove and a supply of wood outside. There is no water or electricity in winter.

Opening dates: July 1 to August 27.

Highlights: this traditional, welcoming refuge nestles at the heart of a small mountain hamlet, with views over the Aiguilles de la Moendaz, where it’s not unusual to spot ibex and marmots early in the morning. Set on the Chemin du Grand Perron des Encombres, you can reach the Refuge on foot, by MTB, and even by car along the marked Encombres itinerary, or by following the Planlebon footpath.

Capacity: 18 beds with a dormitory comprising 3 sections for 4 people, with 6 other beds in the room.

Opening dates: July 1 to August 31.

Highlights: perched at 1,725 metres, this small refuge only accepts one small group at a time. It can host a couple, a family, or a group of friends to enjoy a very personalised stay. Set in the heart of the mountains, but easily accessible, the refuge is perfect for well-being breaks. Professionally run yoga, naturopathy and sophrology sessions, as well as courses to reconnect with your inner self are held here, for small groups. Relax in the balmy Nordic bath, heated to 37 degrees, and the panoramic sauna – both wood-fired.

Capacity: 8 beds.

Good to know: Accessible via an easy hike from the village of Saint Marcel (45 minutes), or Les Menuires (start from the Brelin district and follow the Balcon footpath for 2 hours). 

Another easier option: take the Saint Martin 1 gondola lift, then walk about 300 metres down the Biolley run until you get to a sign on the left indicating the path to the refuge, 200 metres further down!

Opening dates: June 18 to September 15.

Highlights: totally renovated in 2017, the modern, comfortable refuge has maintained its traditonal character. Built on the unmissable and magical lakeside setting of Lac du Lou (2,045 metres), with its breathtaking crystal clear waters. Accessible to all, families in particular, you’ll feel far removed from everything, even though it’s just a 2-hour return walk from Chez Pépé Nicolas.

Capacity: 32 beds (1 dormitory of 4 persons, 2 dormitories of 6 persons, 2 dormitories of 8 persons)

Good to know: dogs allowed during the day only, if kept on a lead.