Refuge des Mottets
3.1About
Refuge des Mottets sits at 1870m in the Vanoise foothills, east of Modane in Savoie. The hut is reached via the Vallée de l'Arc. From Modane (580m), allow 4–5 hours to reach the refuge on a well-marked trail through mixed forest and alpine pasture. The path gains roughly 1,300m steadily but without technical sections. Winter access is limited; the route is reliable only from June through September.
The refuge is a small, traditional mountain hut run by FFCAM with capacity for around 40 people in dormitory rooms. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) and packed lunches are available; book meals when you reserve. The kitchen produces solid mountain food rather than elaborate cooking. Water comes from a reliable source nearby. The hut operates year-round but is staffed and fully functional only from mid-June to mid-September; outside these months, expect very limited services.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email at least 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends in July and August. Weekdays outside summer school holidays are quieter. The hut fills quickly during French summer vacation (mid-July to mid-August). Arrive by early afternoon to settle in before dinner service. The location suits walkers targeting the Parc National de la Vanoise or those using the hut as a base for day walks in the Modane area rather than as a staging post on a major multi-day route.
The refuge is a small, traditional mountain hut run by FFCAM with capacity for around 40 people in dormitory rooms. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) and packed lunches are available; book meals when you reserve. The kitchen produces solid mountain food rather than elaborate cooking. Water comes from a reliable source nearby. The hut operates year-round but is staffed and fully functional only from mid-June to mid-September; outside these months, expect very limited services.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email at least 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends in July and August. Weekdays outside summer school holidays are quieter. The hut fills quickly during French summer vacation (mid-July to mid-August). Arrive by early afternoon to settle in before dinner service. The location suits walkers targeting the Parc National de la Vanoise or those using the hut as a base for day walks in the Modane area rather than as a staging post on a major multi-day route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier dates are usually available with less notice.
The refuge is staffed from June through September.
From Modane (580m), follow the well-marked trail up the Vallée de l'Arc for 4–5 hours; the route gains 1,300m steadily with no technical climbing.
The refuge offers half-board (dinner and breakfast); beds are in shared dormitories with capacity for around 40 people total.
Yes—the trail is non-technical and well-marked, making it accessible for fit hikers with basic experience, though the 4–5 hour ascent and 1,300m gain require good fitness.
Location
45.7371, 6.7790
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Quick Facts
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- FFCAM
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