Refuge du Chardonnet
3.6About
Refuge du Chardonnet sits at 2223m in the Hautes-Alpes, deep in the Parc National des Écrins. The hut serves as a base for hikers tackling the high passes and peaks around the Chamonix-Zermatt traverse and routes towards Mont-Blanc. Most walkers approach from Vallorcine (Switzerland) or from the Argentière valley on the French side; expect 4–5 hours of steep terrain to reach the hut. The location puts you on serious mountain ground, with glaciers and rock scrambles common on onward routes.
The refuge operates as a traditional French mountain hut with mixed dormitory rooms holding around 50 people total. Half-board is standard: simple dinners and breakfasts included with the bed. Showers are available (cold water typical at this altitude). The hut opens late June through September; snow and weather close it outside this window. Phone ahead to confirm conditions in shoulder months. This is working-mountain infrastructure, not a hotel—expect basic comfort and communal dining with other climbers and trekkers.
Book directly by phone well ahead for July and August; weekends fill fast. June and September slots open up more easily but bring weather risk. The hut staff handle reservations by voice only. Call several months in advance if you're aiming for peak season. Single nights are possible on quiet periods but don't count on it in summer.
The refuge operates as a traditional French mountain hut with mixed dormitory rooms holding around 50 people total. Half-board is standard: simple dinners and breakfasts included with the bed. Showers are available (cold water typical at this altitude). The hut opens late June through September; snow and weather close it outside this window. Phone ahead to confirm conditions in shoulder months. This is working-mountain infrastructure, not a hotel—expect basic comfort and communal dining with other climbers and trekkers.
Book directly by phone well ahead for July and August; weekends fill fast. June and September slots open up more easily but bring weather risk. The hut staff handle reservations by voice only. Call several months in advance if you're aiming for peak season. Single nights are possible on quiet periods but don't count on it in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; call ahead to confirm availability and current conditions on the approach.
Open June to September, staffed seasonally; confirm opening dates before you go as they depend on snow melt and trail access.
Approach from Vallorcine (Switzerland) or the Argentière valley; allow 4–5 hours of steep hiking to reach the hut at 2223m.
Expect basic dormitory beds and meals provided by the guardian; bring a headlamp as facilities are minimal and lighting is limited.
No—this is a serious mountain hut for experienced hikers only; routes from here involve glaciers and rock scrambles, and the approach is steep and exposed.
Location
45.0258, 6.5320
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Hautes-Alpes before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in Hautes-AlpesBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
3.6
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 4 92 21 31 80
- Website
- https://refugechardonnet.wpcomstaging.com
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.