Refuge du Glacier de Chavière
2.5
Savoie, France
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About
Refuge du Glacier de Chavière sits at 2,550m in the Parc National de la Vanoise, above the Vallée de la Tarentaise. The hut stands on the edge of Glacier de Chavière, facing Mont Blanc and the surrounding high peaks. Most hikers approach from Pralognan-la-Vanoise (1,425m), a 5–6 hour climb gaining 1,125m via the Lac des Assiettes. The trail is well-marked and straightforward, though exposed in sections near the glacier. In summer, you can also reach it from Modane via the Refuge de Termignon and Glacier de l'Albaron—a longer variant for those linking multiple huts.
The refuge is managed by the FFCAM and holds 60 places in dormitory rooms. Meals are served family-style; the kitchen does good value half-board at reasonable prices. Water comes from snowmelt and nearby sources. The hut stays open from June to September, depending on snow and access conditions. It serves as a staging point for mountaineers tackling peaks like Mont Blanc and Gran Paradiso, and day hikers exploring the glacier and surrounding lakes. Conditions can deteriorate quickly; check weather and glacier conditions before departure.
Book directly with the refuge from March onwards, especially for July and August when it fills 6–8 weeks ahead. The hut fills fastest during French school holidays (mid-July to mid-August). Call or email early; online booking through the FFCAM website is also available. Bring headtorch, sun protection, and crampons if attempting glacier crossings. Winter and shoulder-season access is unreliable; confirm conditions by phone before planning an off-season visit.
The refuge is managed by the FFCAM and holds 60 places in dormitory rooms. Meals are served family-style; the kitchen does good value half-board at reasonable prices. Water comes from snowmelt and nearby sources. The hut stays open from June to September, depending on snow and access conditions. It serves as a staging point for mountaineers tackling peaks like Mont Blanc and Gran Paradiso, and day hikers exploring the glacier and surrounding lakes. Conditions can deteriorate quickly; check weather and glacier conditions before departure.
Book directly with the refuge from March onwards, especially for July and August when it fills 6–8 weeks ahead. The hut fills fastest during French school holidays (mid-July to mid-August). Call or email early; online booking through the FFCAM website is also available. Bring headtorch, sun protection, and crampons if attempting glacier crossings. Winter and shoulder-season access is unreliable; confirm conditions by phone before planning an off-season visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 4–6 months ahead for July and August; the hut sleeps around 60 people and fills quickly during peak season.
The refuge is staffed from mid-June to mid-September, weather dependent.
From Pralognan-la-Vanoise (1,425m), allow 5–6 hours to climb 1,125m via Lac des Assiettes on a well-marked trail; alternative approach via Modane and Refuge de Termignon takes longer.
Beds in dormitory rooms, hearty evening meals and breakfast included, limited hot water for washing (no showers).
The hiking approach is manageable for fit hikers with mountain experience, but the exposed sections near the glacier and high altitude (2,550m) make it better for those accustomed to exposure; mountaineers use it as a base for glacier and peak ascents.
Location
45.2628, 6.6182
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HutLists Score
2.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Total
- 60
Facilities
Meals served
Activities
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