Refuge de la Fournache
3.6About
Refuge de la Fournache sits at 2,363m in the Massif de la Vanoise, above the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The standard approach is from Tignes via the Lac de la Sassière trail, taking 4–5 hours on a well-marked path that gains 800m steadily through alpine meadow and scree. You can also approach from the north via Val d'Isère in 5–6 hours. The hut works as a base for traversing toward Refuge de l'Iseran or for day trips to Mont Pourri and nearby peaks around 3,000m. Summer access is straightforward; winter approach requires winter mountaineering skills.
The refuge operates year-round and is managed by FFCAM. It has 40 beds split across dormitories. The guardian serves hot meals at dinner and breakfast; bring your own packed lunch or order one ahead. Cooking facilities and shower are available. There's no mobile signal—carry a paper map and compass. Water comes from snowmelt (reliable in season) and a spring nearby. The hut fills quickly July–August and during school holidays.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends. July and August weekends are full by June. Arrive by mid-afternoon as dinner service is fixed. Winter bookings require confirmation of your mountaineering experience and avalanche awareness.
The refuge operates year-round and is managed by FFCAM. It has 40 beds split across dormitories. The guardian serves hot meals at dinner and breakfast; bring your own packed lunch or order one ahead. Cooking facilities and shower are available. There's no mobile signal—carry a paper map and compass. Water comes from snowmelt (reliable in season) and a spring nearby. The hut fills quickly July–August and during school holidays.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends. July and August weekends are full by June. Arrive by mid-afternoon as dinner service is fixed. Winter bookings require confirmation of your mountaineering experience and avalanche awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier dates and shoulder season (June, September) can be booked 4–6 weeks out.
Refuge de la Fournache is staffed from mid-June to mid-September.
The main route from Tignes via Lac de la Sassière takes 4–5 hours and gains 800m on a well-marked trail; alternatively approach from Val d'Isère in 5–6 hours.
Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; beds are in shared dorms, typically 4–8 per room.
Yes—the routes are straightforward and well-marked, though the 800m gain and altitude require basic fitness and acclimatization.
Location
45.2656, 6.7250
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3.6
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 60
Facilities
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