Le Montavoix

Montavoix sits at 2,386m in the Chaînes de Belledonne, accessed from the Vallée de l'Arve. The main approach is from Nant-Blanc via the Pas de la Fenêtre, a 3.5-hour ascent with 1,100m of gain. In summer, you can also reach it via Col de la Loze from the south. The hut lies on the GR55 long-distance trail, making it useful for multi-day traverses of the northern Belledonne massif. The final approach involves scree and loose terrain—bring solid boots. Most parties arrive in late morning or early afternoon after starting from valley settlements.
The hut is a small, simple refuge run by FFCAM. It has 12 beds split across two dormitories and serves hot meals, packed lunches, and drinks. Water comes from a spring nearby. The building offers basic shelter; expect cold nights even in summer, as there is no heating. The hut opens June to September, depending on snow conditions. The keeper maintains it during this window and can provide local route advice for onward travel to neighbouring refuges like Chamonix or Dômes de Miage.
Book directly by email or phone at least 2–3 weeks ahead in July and August. Outside July–August, last-minute booking is usually possible. The hut fills most weekends and during school holidays. Half-board rates are standard; bring cash if paying on site, though card payment is increasingly accepted. There is no mobile signal, so plan communication before arrival.