Refuge de Spée
5.0About
Refuge de Spée sits at 1481m in the Haute-Savoie, accessible from the Vallée de Chamonix. The hut serves as a base for day hikes in the mid-altitude terrain and makes sense if you're moving between valley trails or acclimatizing for higher objectives. Most approaches take 2–3 hours on foot from nearby villages. The location is low enough that snow clears by late May and remains reliable through September.
The refuge holds 35 beds across 3 private rooms and shared dormitories. Meals are provided (dinner and breakfast), and the hut has showers—a real asset at this elevation if you're planning to stay multiple nights. The season runs from late May through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Staff are used to hikers working in the region and can advise on local conditions and route options.
Ring ahead to reserve, especially for weekends and July–August when the hut fills quickly. During peak summer, book 2–3 weeks in advance. Solo travelers and small groups often find space mid-week even in season. Check whether they accept card payments or prefer cash before you arrive.
The refuge holds 35 beds across 3 private rooms and shared dormitories. Meals are provided (dinner and breakfast), and the hut has showers—a real asset at this elevation if you're planning to stay multiple nights. The season runs from late May through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Staff are used to hikers working in the region and can advise on local conditions and route options.
Ring ahead to reserve, especially for weekends and July–August when the hut fills quickly. During peak summer, book 2–3 weeks in advance. Solo travelers and small groups often find space mid-week even in season. Check whether they accept card payments or prefer cash before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; shoulder season (June, September) requires 4–6 weeks' notice. Call the refuge directly to confirm availability and arrange your stay.
Refuge de Spée is staffed from late May through September, with reliable access once snow clears in late May.
Approach from nearby Vallée de Chamonix villages; most routes take 2–3 hours on foot with moderate elevation gain to 1481m.
The refuge provides meals and has showers available. You'll sleep in one of 3 private rooms or shared dormitories (35 beds total).
Yes—the low elevation (1481m), moderate approach hikes, and mid-altitude terrain make it ideal for acclimatization and day hikes for hikers new to Alpine terrain.
Location
45.9942, 6.3714
HutLists Score
5.0
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 35
- Private rooms
- 3
Facilities
Showers
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 4 50 22 80 46
- Website
- http://www.savoie-mont-blanc.com/offre/fiche/refuge-de-spee/153590
Activities
Featured In
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