Refuge Communal de Lachat

Refuge Communal de Lachat sits at 1543m in the Savoie massif, serving as a base for ridge walks and peaks in the northern Bauges region. Reach it from the village of Lachat via a straightforward trail that takes 1.5 hours on foot. The hut lies on the GR9 long-distance route, making it a natural stopping point between the Chaîne de la Chartreuse and higher mountain objectives. Summer access is direct; winter approaches depend on snow conditions in the Savoie foothills.
The refuge offers 30 beds across dormitory rooms. The guardian provides half-board meals featuring local Savoyard cooking. Water comes from a spring; toilets are basic but functional. The hut operates year-round, though staffing varies outside the main season from June to September. Mobile phone signal is weak. Heating is minimal in winter, so bring a sleeping bag rated for cold nights even in summer months.
Book directly with the guardian several weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Contact through the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) or verify current opening dates before travel. Payment on arrival. Solo walkers and small groups can often find space with less notice outside peak season. The hut fills quickly during school holidays and autumn weekends when local hikers use it as a training base.