Rifugio Pavillon

Rifugio Pavillon sits at 2,174m on the eastern flank of Mont-Blanc massif in Haute-Savoie, accessed from the Vallée de la Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The main approach starts from Chamonix or nearby Argentière, taking 3–4 hours on foot via established trails through alpine meadows and mixed terrain. You can also approach from Vallorcine or the Vallée de Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval depending on your itinerary. The location makes it a solid staging point for traverses between the Mont-Blanc range and the lower valleys, or as a base for day ascents of nearby peaks.
The refuge is managed by FFCAM and operates seasonally, typically late June through September. It has capacity for around 40 people in dormitory rooms. Meals are served in the dining area—the guardien provides half-board (demi-pension) with dinner and breakfast, or you can buy breakfast separately. Water comes from nearby springs. Mobile reception is unreliable; plan accordingly. The hut runs on generator power and offers basic comfort suited to the alpine environment.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email during open season. Summer weekends and July–August fill quickly; aim to reserve at least one week ahead, ideally two weeks for peak season. The refuge fills from groups and climbers doing adjacent peaks, so early booking improves your chances. If you arrive without a reservation, call ahead to check availability rather than making the journey without confirmation.