Chalet Refuge de Coutarse
3.7About
Refuge de Coutarse sits at 1,604m in the Tarentaise valley, a stronghold for walkers heading into the Parc National de la Vanoise. The hut lies on the GR5 long-distance trail and serves as a base for routes to Lac de Charvey and the Col de la Loze. From the village of Courchevel, allow 2.5 hours of steady hiking through mixed forest and alpine meadow to reach it. Approach via Les Praz or Moriond depending on your starting point.
The refuge operates as a traditional mountain shelter managed by FFCAM affiliates. It holds around 30 beds in shared dormitories with basic but clean facilities. Meals focus on hearty mountain fare—expect soupe à l'oignon and local charcuterie. Water comes from a reliable spring. The hut runs from mid-June through late September, closing when snow makes access difficult. No electricity or hot showers, though you'll find a solar shower available in summer.
Book directly with the hut keeper by phone or in person. July and August fill quickly; aim for bookings 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. Shoulder months (June and September) have space but weather becomes unpredictable at that elevation. Half-board is standard—bring a packed lunch or eat breakfast and dinner at the hut. The keeper expects groups of six or more to give advance notice.
The refuge operates as a traditional mountain shelter managed by FFCAM affiliates. It holds around 30 beds in shared dormitories with basic but clean facilities. Meals focus on hearty mountain fare—expect soupe à l'oignon and local charcuterie. Water comes from a reliable spring. The hut runs from mid-June through late September, closing when snow makes access difficult. No electricity or hot showers, though you'll find a solar shower available in summer.
Book directly with the hut keeper by phone or in person. July and August fill quickly; aim for bookings 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. Shoulder months (June and September) have space but weather becomes unpredictable at that elevation. Half-board is standard—bring a packed lunch or eat breakfast and dinner at the hut. The keeper expects groups of six or more to give advance notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier dates and shoulder season (June, September) need less notice.
Refuge de Coutarse is staffed from June to September.
From Courchevel village, hike 2.5 hours via Les Praz or Moriond through forest and alpine meadow to reach the refuge at 1,604m on the GR5.
Expect basic dormitory beds and meals provided by the guardian; bring a sleeping bag and check availability of hot showers when booking.
Yes—the 2.5-hour approach is steady rather than steep, and the refuge serves as an accessible GR5 staging point for walkers of moderate fitness.
Location
45.6696, 6.2481
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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
3.7
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
- Website
- https://www.lesaillons.com/chalet-de-coutarse.html
Activities
Featured In
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