Refuge de Bonavau

2.2
1,550m Haute-Savoie, France
Easy

About

Refuge de Bonavau sits at 1,550m in Haute-Savoie, above the Vallée de Montjoie. The hut is reached from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval village—allow 2.5 to 3 hours on foot via marked trails through forest and pasture. The approach is steady but not steep, making it accessible for fit walkers tackling longer Chaîne du Reposoir traverses or day walks in the Parc Naturel Régional des Aravis.
The refuge operates seasonally from June through September, with 40 beds in dormitory rooms. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is the standard arrangement; meals are shared and satisfying. Hot showers are available. The hut runs on a self-catering basis outside peak hours—bring a sleeping bag. Mobile reception is patchy but WiFi functions at the main building.
Book at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Contact by email or phone to secure a spot and confirm meal service. The refuge fills quickly during summer school holidays. Midweek visits in June or early September offer better availability and quieter conditions. Day visits are welcome if you ring ahead to confirm capacity and kitchen availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; email or phone contact details are available on the hut's listing.
Open June through September; confirm exact dates and staffing with the hut directly, as shoulder months can vary.
Hike 2.5 to 3 hours from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval village via marked trails; the approach is steady and forested with no steep sections.
40 beds in dormitory rooms with half-board (dinner and breakfast) available; contact the hut for exact meal times and dietary options.
Yes—the 2.5 to 3 hour approach from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is steady and not steep, making it accessible for fit walkers new to Alpine huts.

Quick Facts

Managing club
FFCAM
Season
Total
50
Dormitory
Emergency
Private rooms

Facilities

Meals served

Contact & Booking

Phone
+41 78 823 33 98
Website
https://www.facebook.com/Refuge.Bonavau/