About
Cabane de la Motte sits at 2,550m in the Vanoise massif, above the Lac de la Forclaz valley in Savoie. Most parties approach from the north via the Chalets de la Forclaz, a 3–3.5 hour hike gaining 900m vertically. A shorter but steeper approach from the south takes 2–2.5 hours from Pralognan-la-Vanoise, though snow may block this route into June. The cabin serves as a base for ascents of Mont-Blanc de Cheiron (3,754m) and Pointe de la Sana (3,676m), both achievable as day climbs for competent mountaineers.
The cabin is a small, unguarded refuge managed by the FFCAM. It provides 4 beds in basic dormitory-style accommodation with a wood stove for heating. There is no running water or electricity; guests collect water from a nearby stream. The building is unlocked year-round and operates on an honour system for payment. Winter access is feasible for experienced alpinists with skis or snowshoes, though conditions demand careful route-finding and avalanche awareness.
Contact the FFCAM section in Chambéry or check the Parc National de la Vanoise website for current conditions and access status before planning a visit. Mountain weather changes rapidly; allow flexibility in your schedule. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends.
The cabin is a small, unguarded refuge managed by the FFCAM. It provides 4 beds in basic dormitory-style accommodation with a wood stove for heating. There is no running water or electricity; guests collect water from a nearby stream. The building is unlocked year-round and operates on an honour system for payment. Winter access is feasible for experienced alpinists with skis or snowshoes, though conditions demand careful route-finding and avalanche awareness.
Contact the FFCAM section in Chambéry or check the Parc National de la Vanoise website for current conditions and access status before planning a visit. Mountain weather changes rapidly; allow flexibility in your schedule. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 3–4 months ahead, especially for July and August; this is a tiny hut with only 4 beds.
Typically June to September, depending on snow conditions and staffing; contact the guardian to confirm exact dates.
Approach from Chalets de la Forclaz (3–3.5 hours, 900m gain) or from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (2–2.5 hours, steeper); southern route may be blocked by snow until June.
Basic mountain hut: bunk beds, guardian-prepared meals, no shower; bring a sleeping bag and expect minimal comfort.
No—it's a mountaineering base for experienced climbers doing Mont-Blanc de Cheiron and Pointe de la Sana; approach hikes are steep and exposed.
Location
45.6930, 6.4919
Plan your visit
Get directionsHutLists Score
2.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Total
- 4
Facilities
Meals served
Activities
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.