Les Blonnières Sud

Refuge des Blonnières Sud sits at 2,411m on the south side of the Chaîne de Blonnières, in the Mont-Blanc massif east of Chamonix. Reach it from Le Tour (1,465m) via the Vallée de la Forclaz. The hiking route takes 3–4 hours and follows a clear path climbing steadily through alpine pasture before reaching scree. In winter and early spring, avalanche risk on the upper section is serious—approach only with mountain guide knowledge. The hut also serves as a mountaineering base for climbs in the Mont-Blanc range and approaches to Glacier de Tour.
The refuge is run by FFCAM and accommodates 40 people in shared dormitories. Half-board (demi-pension) is standard: dinner, breakfast, and a packed lunch for the next day. The kitchen produces substantial meals based on what the mountain supply allows—expect hearty, simple food. Water comes from glacial melt. The hut operates from June to September reliably; shoulder-season trips (May, early October) depend on snow and weather. There is no generator power; lighting runs on gas or candles after dark.
Book 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends, especially if you're part of a group. Contact the refuge directly by phone or email through the FFCAM website. Arrive by mid-afternoon to secure your place and eat dinner at a reasonable hour. The approach is rocky and exposed in places—bring proper mountain boots and be ready for cold nights even in summer.