Chalet de l'Arc
2.6
Savoie, France
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About
Chalet de l'Arc sits at 2,600m in the Chaîne de la Vanoise, accessed from the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The standard approach is from Tignes via the Glacier de la Grande Sassière, taking 4–5 hours. An alternative route from Bessans (in the Vallée de l'Arc) takes 5–6 hours and crosses higher terrain. Both routes involve glacier travel and require competence with crampons and rope. The hut serves as a base for ascending the Gran Paradiso (4,061m) via the normal Italian route and for traversing the Tarentaise-Maurienne ridge. Climbers also use it for ski mountaineering objectives in winter.
The hut manages 30 beds across shared dormitories. The guardian cooks dinner and breakfast daily during the summer season (late June to mid-September). Water comes from a melt stream; facilities are basic mountain standard with no shower. Half-board is mandatory; expect simple pasta, soup, and local cheese. The hut runs year-round but staffing is irregular outside summer, so contact ahead if planning a winter visit. It's managed by the FFCAM.
Book by contacting the FFCAM section for Savoie directly. July and August fill 8–10 weeks ahead, so confirm availability early. The hut operates on a first-come basis; no online booking system exists. Bring a good sleeping bag as temperatures drop to freezing year-round. Mobile signal is absent.
The hut manages 30 beds across shared dormitories. The guardian cooks dinner and breakfast daily during the summer season (late June to mid-September). Water comes from a melt stream; facilities are basic mountain standard with no shower. Half-board is mandatory; expect simple pasta, soup, and local cheese. The hut runs year-round but staffing is irregular outside summer, so contact ahead if planning a winter visit. It's managed by the FFCAM.
Book by contacting the FFCAM section for Savoie directly. July and August fill 8–10 weeks ahead, so confirm availability early. The hut operates on a first-come basis; no online booking system exists. Bring a good sleeping bag as temperatures drop to freezing year-round. Mobile signal is absent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 4–6 months in advance for July and August; shoulder seasons (June, September) require 2–3 months' notice.
Chalet de l'Arc is staffed from mid-June to mid-September, weather permitting.
From Tignes via Glacier de la Grande Sassière (4–5 hours) or from Bessans via higher terrain (5–6 hours); both routes require glacier travel and crampon competence.
Expect basic mountain hut conditions: dorm beds, simple meals (dinner and breakfast included), and cold-water washing; no showers.
This hut is for experienced mountaineers only; you need solid glacier travel skills, rope work, and fitness for 4,000m+ peaks—not suitable for beginners or families.
Location
45.5293, 6.4266
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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
2.6
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Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
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