Refuge le Monal

Refuge le Monal sits at 1,860m in the Massif de la Lauzière, in the Savoie region of the northern French Alps. The hut sits above the village of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, accessible via the Vallon du Monal. Most hikers approach from the village car park and follow the marked trail through woodland and alpine pasture for 3–4 hours. The route gains 900m steadily but is well-graded and suitable for fit walkers with basic mountain experience. In winter, access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk; check with the refuge before planning a winter visit.
The refuge operates year-round and welcomes hikers, trail runners, and ski tourers. It has capacity for around 40 guests across basic dormitory rooms. The kitchen serves dinner and breakfast; half-board is the standard arrangement, though lighter meals are available. There is no WiFi or mains power—the hut runs on solar panels and a generator. Water comes from a spring. Toilets are basic but functional. The refuge sits on several hiking routes, making it a logical stopping point for through-hikers crossing the Lauzière massif or accessing higher peaks like Pic de la Lauzière.
Book directly by email or phone as soon as you know your dates, especially for weekends and July–August. The refuge fills quickly during peak season. Confirm access conditions in winter before planning. The hut is managed by FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne).