Refuge de Spée

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.