Refuge de la Martin

Refuge de la Martin sits at 2,340m in the Massif de la Vanoise, above the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The hut sits on the GR55 long-distance trail, making it a natural halt for walkers crossing the Chaîne de la Vanoise. Access from the north trailhead takes 4–5 hours; from Pralognan-la-Vanoise to the south takes 3–4 hours. Most approach routes start from valley villages at 900–1,200m, so expect steady climbing with minimal scrambling.
The refuge is staffed year-round by the FFCAM and manages 50–60 places in shared dorms. Half-board is standard: evening meal and breakfast included with your bed. The kitchen serves three-course dinners and packed lunches to order. Water comes from a spring; toilets are basic. The hut opens mid-June through September for reliable snow-free conditions, though shoulder-season visits are possible if you bring winter gear.
Book directly by email or phone at least 4 weeks ahead in July and August—this hut fills quickly on weekends. Outside peak season (June, September, October), you can often get a bed with 1–2 weeks' notice. Confirm your arrival time when you book; the guardian expects walkers by early evening. Payment is cash or bank transfer; bring euros if paying on arrival.