Refuge de Tête Rousse

Refuge de Tête Rousse sits at 3165m on the north face of Mont-Blanc, in the Haute-Savoie. Most parties approach from Nid d'Aigle (reached by train from Saint-Gervais-les-Bains) and climb the Goûter route in 3–4 hours. The hut is the standard staging point for Mont-Blanc ascents and sits in exposed, glaciated terrain where weather changes fast.
The refuge holds 72 beds across multiple dormitories and runs from mid-June through September. The FFCAM manages the hut and provides cooked meals (dinner and breakfast) in the dining area. Toilet facilities are basic and water is melted from snow and ice; expect crowded conditions in July and August. The hut operates as a working base rather than a destination—most guests are here to climb Mont-Blanc the next day.
Book directly by email or phone at least 6 months ahead for July and August. Earlier and later in the season (June and September) you have more flexibility but still need to reserve 2–3 months in advance. Bring sleeping bags and warm layers; the hut provides blankets but the dormitories are cold at night. Arrive early in the afternoon if possible to acclimatize and eat dinner before dark.