Refuge de l'Arcelin

Refuge de l'Arcelin sits at 2,644m in the Massif de la Vanoise, above the Maurienne valley. Reach it from Modane via the Gîte de Planchamp (1,860m, 2.5 hours uphill) or from Bellecombe-en-Tarentaise via the Col de la Loze. The hut anchors approaches to peaks including Mont Thabor and Dôme de Chasseforêt. Most parties allow 6–7 hours from the nearest roadhead. Winter access is unreliable; summer is the only practical season.
The refuge operates as a full staffed hut from June to September, serving around 40 people. Expect a warm meal at dinner and breakfast; dormitory beds only. Water comes from snowmelt and springs; the hut has basic toilet facilities but no shower. Staff can advise on conditions for climbs departing next morning. The hut sits inside Parc National de la Vanoise, so regulations apply: no camping nearby, no fires, leave-no-trace protocol mandatory.
Book directly with the hut as early as possible; July–August fills 2–3 months ahead. Contact them by phone or email well before your planned dates. Expect to pay a deposit. The hut can sometimes accommodate walk-ups in shoulder months (June, September) if beds are free, but don't rely on it. Bring cash; card payment is uncertain. Confirm opening dates before departure, as spring snow or maintenance can delay the season opener.