Refuge des Dents du Midi

Refuge des Dents du Midi sits at 2,884m on the border between Haute-Savoie and Valais, below the Dents du Midi massif. The approach from Champéry (Switzerland) takes 3–4 hours via the Pointe de Nyon. From the French side, access from Morzine requires a long day via Lac de Tanay and the Col de la Forclaz de Montmin (2,357m), roughly 6–7 hours. Most climbers approach from Champéry, as it's more direct. The hut sits on the GR5 long-distance trail, making it useful for multi-day alpine traverses across the Mont-Blanc massif region.
The refuge has 20 beds split across small dormitory rooms. There's a self-catering kitchen where you prepare your own meals, which means bringing or carrying food supplies. Water comes from the hut's tap. No meals are served by staff. The hut operates mid-June through mid-September depending on snow conditions; check current status before planning. Winter access is possible only with mountaineering skills and appropriate gear.
Book at least 6–8 weeks ahead for July and August, when the hut fills quickly with GR5 trekkers and climbers aiming at Mont-Blanc or the Chaîne du Montblanc. Contact the refuge directly by email or phone to confirm availability and water/supply conditions. July and August are peak season. May, June, and September offer better availability but require winter climbing experience or knowledge of current conditions on the approach.