Refuge de la Traye
1.4
Savoie, France
About
Refuge de la Traye sits at 1,957m in the Tarentaise valley, accessed from the village of Naves via a well-marked trail that takes 2 hours 30 minutes. The hut serves as a base for walks across the Parc National de la Vanoise and connects to the GR55 long-distance route. The approach is steady and manageable for most hikers; snow can block the final section until mid-June.
The refuge is a small, traditional stone building with 40 places in dormitory rooms. The guardian runs it as a proper mountain hut rather than a commercial lodge—expect simple, filling food cooked on site and genuine mountain hospitality. There is a water source nearby. Opening runs from mid-June to late September. The hut operates without electricity or running water in rooms; toilets are basic outdoor facilities. A good choice for walkers wanting substance over luxury.
Book directly with the guardian in advance, especially for weekends and July-August when the hut fills quickly. Contact details are available through the FFCAM directory or local Tarentaise tourism offices. The hut is quieter in June and September. Come self-sufficient with a headtorch and warm clothes—nights are cold at this elevation even in summer.
The refuge is a small, traditional stone building with 40 places in dormitory rooms. The guardian runs it as a proper mountain hut rather than a commercial lodge—expect simple, filling food cooked on site and genuine mountain hospitality. There is a water source nearby. Opening runs from mid-June to late September. The hut operates without electricity or running water in rooms; toilets are basic outdoor facilities. A good choice for walkers wanting substance over luxury.
Book directly with the guardian in advance, especially for weekends and July-August when the hut fills quickly. Contact details are available through the FFCAM directory or local Tarentaise tourism offices. The hut is quieter in June and September. Come self-sufficient with a headtorch and warm clothes—nights are cold at this elevation even in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier in the season you can usually book 4–6 weeks out. Contact the guardian directly by phone or email, or use the refuge's online booking system if available.
Refuge de la Traye is staffed from mid-June to mid-September; the approach trail may have snow blocking it until mid-June.
Start from the village of Naves and follow the well-marked trail to the refuge at 1,957m; the hike takes 2 hours 30 minutes with steady, manageable climbing.
The refuge serves dinner and breakfast; expect dormitory beds in a traditional stone hut with 40 places total and basic mountain hut facilities (no private rooms or hot showers).
Yes, the approach is steady and not technical, making it accessible for most hikers; it's an excellent base for day walks in the Vanoise without difficult terrain.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Season
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- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website