Refuge de Loriaz

Refuge de Loriaz sits at 2,020m in the Chaîne du Reposoir, above the Vallée de Taninges in Haute-Savoie. The hut is reached from the village of Tanninges via a marked trail climbing roughly 1,200m vertical. The approach takes 5–6 hours on foot. Mountain bikers can ride the forest road partway, cutting hiking time to 3–4 hours. The ridge location offers views across to Mont-Blanc and the Chaîne de Morcles. Access is possible April through November depending on snow cover; winter approaches are exposed and require winter mountaineering skills.
The refuge operates as a staffed hut with 49 beds split across dormitories and smaller rooms. Meals are available: a three-course dinner and breakfast are standard offerings. The hut has a wood stove and gas heating; shower facilities exist but hot water is limited. Electricity runs off solar panels and a small generator. The site is managed in partnership with local hiking organisations and emphasises sustainable mountain practice. Water comes from a spring; the hut sits on a ridge with good natural drainage.
Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August. Contact the refuge directly by email or telephone—these are the fastest channels for availability and special requests. July and August are peak season; June and September offer better availability while weather remains reliable. The hut closes during heavy snow periods typically December through March, though some years allow spring access from April onward.