Cabin des Audannes

Cabane des Audannes sits at 2,506m in the Chamonix valley, serving as a base for routes into the Mont-Blanc massif and approaches to Lac Blanc. The hut is reached by hiking from Montenvers (1,913m) in roughly 3 hours, or from the Vallée Blanche side via longer approaches. The location gives you direct access to ridge traverses and scrambling around the Aiguilles Rouges, with solid scrambling terrain on multiple aspects.
The cabin accommodates 46 people in dormitory beds and serves meals (book half-board ahead). Drinking water is available on-site. Opening dates vary by season—contact the hut directly to confirm. The hut is run under FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) affiliation, so membership can reduce your nightly rate. The setting is exposed and exposed to weather; expect cold nights and wind even in summer.
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August weekends. Email or phone ahead to reserve beds and meals, especially if you're arriving mid-week or shoulder season. The hut staff will confirm opening dates and current conditions. Arrival times of 14:00–17:00 work best to avoid late arrivals. Bring a sleeping bag even if you have reserved bedding.