Rifugio Avanzà

Rifugio Avanzà sits at 2,578m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, above the Vallée de l'Arve in Savoie. The hut is reached from Grenoble via Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse or from the road at Col de Porte. From the nearest car park at Charmant Som, allow 3–4 hours to reach the refuge on a steady alpine trail. Winter access is restricted; check conditions before attempting the approach in autumn and spring.
The rifugio accommodates around 40 people in basic dormitory rooms. The custodians serve breakfast and a hearty dinner, with packed lunches available on request. Water comes from a spring. There is no WiFi. The hut operates year-round but winter access depends on snow and trail conditions. Half-board (demi-pension) is standard and includes dinner, breakfast, and a bed.
Book well ahead for July and August—at least 6–8 weeks. Contact the hut by telephone to confirm availability and arrange arrival details. You will need to specify your arrival time, number of people, and any dietary requirements. The hut is popular with hikers tackling the ridge walks across Belledonne, so weekends and school holidays fill quickly.