Refuge de Lessy

Refuge de Lessy sits at 1776m in the Chaîne des Aravis, a north-facing limestone range between the Faucigny and Tarentaise valleys in Haute-Savoie. The hut is a natural base for traverses through the Aravis and approaches to peaks like Mont Charvin or Pointe Noire. Access from the Petit-Saint-Bernard road takes roughly 2.5 hours on foot via the village of Praz-de-Lys. Most summer visitors hike in from the south or west via established trails that climb steadily through pasture and scree. Winter approach is feasible for experienced mountain walkers but requires avalanche awareness.
The refuge operates year-round as a private mountain lodge with 30–40 beds in mixed dormitories and a handful of double rooms. Meals are provided on request; bring a sleeping bag liner if you prefer. Water comes from a spring on site. The hut keeper manages bookings directly and caters to small groups and lone walkers equally. Basic kitchen facilities allow self-catering if you bring food. Mobile reception is patchy; check signal before you arrive.
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and in September when weather is stable and crowds lighter. May through October is the main season; winter visits are possible by prior arrangement but require confirmation of water and heating availability. Contact the refuge by phone or email to confirm current opening dates and meal availability.