Refuge du Col de Thorens
2.6
Savoie, France
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About
Refuge du Col de Thorens sits at 2,556m on the Col de Thorens in the northern Vanoise massif. Access from the Tarentaise valley is straightforward: drive to Landry and hike via the Lac de Tignes route (5–6 hours) or approach from Courchevel side via the Refuge de la Loze (4–5 hours). The hut serves as a solid base for traversing between valleys and for climbing peaks in the immediate area including Pointe de la Sana and Mont Blanc du Tacul approaches via longer itineraries.
The refuge holds 40–50 people in mixed dorms. Meals are standard mountain fare—dinner and breakfast both included with bed booking. They operate a small self-service shop for snacks and drinks. Water comes directly from the Col's natural sources. The hut typically opens mid-June and closes mid-September, depending on snow conditions. Winter access is possible for ski mountaineers but requires liaison with the guardian beforehand.
Book direct with the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) or contact the hut guardian in season. July and August fill quickly—aim for at least 3 weeks ahead, longer if you're targeting a specific weekend. June and September offer fewer crowds and more availability. Phone reservations are preferred; email confirmation should follow. The hut has no electricity and basic facilities, so expect cold showers and minimal comfort outside sleeping and eating areas.
The refuge holds 40–50 people in mixed dorms. Meals are standard mountain fare—dinner and breakfast both included with bed booking. They operate a small self-service shop for snacks and drinks. Water comes directly from the Col's natural sources. The hut typically opens mid-June and closes mid-September, depending on snow conditions. Winter access is possible for ski mountaineers but requires liaison with the guardian beforehand.
Book direct with the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) or contact the hut guardian in season. July and August fill quickly—aim for at least 3 weeks ahead, longer if you're targeting a specific weekend. June and September offer fewer crowds and more availability. Phone reservations are preferred; email confirmation should follow. The hut has no electricity and basic facilities, so expect cold showers and minimal comfort outside sleeping and eating areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; March onwards for peak season weekends.
Open June to September, staffed daily during summer season.
From Landry via Lac de Tignes (5–6 hours) or from Courchevel via Refuge de la Loze (4–5 hours); the refuge sits at 2,556m on Col de Thorens.
Dorm beds (40 capacity), evening meal and breakfast included; bring a sleeping bag liner.
Yes for fit hikers comfortable with 5–6 hour approaches; not suitable for families with young children due to length and altitude.
Location
45.2682, 6.6157
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.6
Overall
Facilities
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Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
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