Refuge des Lacs Merlet
3.6About
Refuge des Lacs Merlet sits at 2,417m in the Chaîne de la Vanoise, accessed from the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The standard approach follows the GR55 from Landry, gaining 1,000m over roughly 4 hours. Winter access requires ski mountaineering skills. This is a small refuge designed for serious walkers on multi-day traverses, not a hub destination.
The refuge accommodates 14 people in basic dormitory arrangements. Meals depend on advance notice—contact the guardian directly about availability and menus. Water comes from the surrounding lakes. The hut operates mid-June to September, closing during heavy snow. Facilities are minimal: expect no electricity, no showers, and basic composting toilets. The location rewards the effort: you're surrounded by glaciated peaks and Alpine tarns at the threshold between the Écrins and Vanoise massifs.
Ring ahead before arriving, especially in July and August when the small capacity fills quickly. Phone contact is your only reliable booking method. Expect to confirm your arrival date and meal requirements at least a week in advance. The refuge operates seasonally and the guardian may be absent in poor weather, so plan accordingly.
The refuge accommodates 14 people in basic dormitory arrangements. Meals depend on advance notice—contact the guardian directly about availability and menus. Water comes from the surrounding lakes. The hut operates mid-June to September, closing during heavy snow. Facilities are minimal: expect no electricity, no showers, and basic composting toilets. The location rewards the effort: you're surrounded by glaciated peaks and Alpine tarns at the threshold between the Écrins and Vanoise massifs.
Ring ahead before arriving, especially in July and August when the small capacity fills quickly. Phone contact is your only reliable booking method. Expect to confirm your arrival date and meal requirements at least a week in advance. The refuge operates seasonally and the guardian may be absent in poor weather, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead during peak season (July–August); contact the guardian by phone as early as possible since the refuge is tiny with only 14 beds.
The refuge operates June to September for summer hiking; winter access requires ski mountaineering skills and is not staffed for standard accommodation.
Follow the GR55 from Landry, which climbs 1,000m over roughly 4 hours to reach the refuge at 2,417m.
Meals are available but require advance notice—call the guardian directly to arrange dinner and breakfast; expect basic dormitory beds and limited facilities typical of a small mountain hut.
No—this is a serious walkers' refuge on the GR55 traverse, not a beginner destination; plan for strong fitness and mountain experience, and go as part of a multi-day route rather than a standalone visit.
Location
45.3609, 6.6517
HutLists Score
3.6
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 14
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 6 99 17 12 40
- Website
- https://refugedeslacsmerlet-vanoise-courchevel.com/
Activities
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