Refuge du Semnoz

Refuge du Semnoz sits at 1,550m on the Semnoz plateau in Savoie, a rolling limestone upland between Annecy and the Chaîne de la Tournette. The hut works as a base for summer walking in the Parc de Bornes-Aravis foothills. Most hikers approach from the Annecy side via the Col de la Forclaz de Montmin (1,461m), a 2.5 hour walk from the roadhead at Montmin. Alternatively, drive closer to the plateau itself and cut hiking time to 1 hour from the Crêt du Maure parking area. The terrain is open pasture with few route-finding difficulties.
The refuge accommodates 10 people in basic mountain dormitories. The guardian provides half-board meals using local supplies. There are no showers or WiFi. The hut operates June through September, weather permitting. Summer days bring reliable mountain weather and wildflower meadows. Winter access is on foot only and depends entirely on snow conditions.
Contact the refuge directly by phone to reserve a place. Book at least 2 months ahead for July and August weekends. June and September see fewer walkers and offer better availability. The hut sits on a working farm, so respect the pastoral setting and keep noise down in the evening. Arrive by mid-afternoon to secure a good position in the dorm and give yourself time to settle before dinner service.