Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme

Refuge du Col de la Croix du Bonhomme sits at 2,443m on the col linking the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys in Savoie. The hut is accessible via the GR55 from Bourg-Saint-Maurice (6–7 hours, 1,200m ascent) or from the Chapieux side in the north (4 hours). Most hikers approach from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, crossing open alpine terrain with few sections of technical difficulty. The col itself marks a major junction on long-distance routes connecting the two valleys.
The refuge holds 99 beds across multiple dormitories and operates under FFCAM management. Meals are standard mountain fare: dinner, breakfast, and packed lunches available for order. Showers and flush toilets are on-site—a practical amenity at this elevation. There is no WiFi. The hut typically opens mid-June through September, depending on snow conditions at the col. Water comes from the mountain, though snow melt can occasionally affect supply in early season.
Book by phone with the refuge directly, especially for July and August weekends when capacity fills quickly. Groups planning summer weekends should call 4–6 weeks ahead. The hut can accommodate walk-ins outside peak periods, but confirming your arrival time by phone is sensible to ensure the kitchen prepares food. Bring cash (the card payment system is unreliable at this elevation). The col is snow-bound until late May most years; check conditions before attempting early-season crossing.