Refuge des Prés

Refuge des Prés sits at 1,850m in the Maurienne valley, a quiet base for hiking the surrounding ridges and peaks. Access is straightforward from the village of Bonneval-en-Maurienne: head south on the D926 toward the Col de l'Iseran, then turn east. The hut is a 2-hour walk from the road junction, gaining 350m of elevation. Most walkers approach as part of multi-day traverses linking the Maurienne to the Tarentaise. The location puts you close to cols including the Col de la Loze and access to peaks above 3,000m in the Parc National de la Vanoise.
The refuge is run by FFCAM and offers around 35 beds in shared dormitories. Meals are available: half-board covers dinner and breakfast, both substantial. The kitchen handles vegetarian requests if you book ahead. The hut has a wood fire and reliable water supply. It opens mid-June through September, closing in winter. The warden lives on-site year-round, so limited opening is sometimes possible outside these months—ask when you call. Toilets are outside; expect basic mountain conditions.
Book directly by phone with the warden as early as possible if you're planning a July or August visit. June and September are quieter but still busy on weekends. Arrive by early afternoon to help the kitchen with meal prep. Pay in cash or by bank transfer before arrival. Bring a headtorch—the building has minimal electric lighting.