Refuge du Col du Palet

Refuge du Col du Palet sits at 2,478m on the Col du Palet in the Vanoise massif, between the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys. Most parties approach from the north via Pralognan-la-Vanoise, a 4–5 hour hike gaining 900m. The southern approach from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne is longer and less common. Both routes follow well-marked trails through alpine meadows and scree. The hut lies within Parc National de la Vanoise, so check park regulations before your trip.
The refuge is a small, traditional mountain hut run by the FFCAM. It sleeps around 30 people in shared dormitories. The guardian serves simple dinners and breakfasts using local suppliers where possible. Water comes from mountain sources. Toilet facilities are basic and outdoor. The hut operates from early June through late September, closing during winter. Mobile signal is unreliable; plan accordingly.
Book directly by email or phone at least 4 weeks ahead, earlier for July and August. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard. The hut fills quickly during July and August, especially at weekends. Contact the hut directly for current rates and exact opening dates, as these vary year to year depending on snow conditions and staffing.