Albert Premier Hut
1.0Refuge Albert 1er
2,704m
Valais, Switzerland
About
Refuge Albert 1er sits at 2,704m in the Valais Alps, on the approach to Mont Blanc. The hut lies on the classic route from Chamonix to Italy via the TMB (Tour du Mont Blanc). Most hikers reach it from Chamonix in 5-6 hours, climbing steeply from the Forclaz de Montmin (1,461m) trailhead. The final 2 hours gain 800m of elevation on a well-marked path through alpine meadows and scree. In winter and early spring, the approach can require crampons and ice axe skills depending on snow cover.
The hut is managed by the FFCAM (French Alpine Club) and holds 140 beds across multiple dormitories. Meals are served family-style at set times; half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard. The kitchen prepares hearty mountain food designed for hikers doing big days. There's no shower, though washing facilities are available. The hut stays open mid-June through September, occasionally extending into early October depending on weather and snow conditions. Winter mountaineers occasionally use it during the climbing season.
Book 4-8 weeks ahead for July and August, especially if you're part of a group. Call directly to reserve beds. Peak season runs mid-July to mid-August, when the hut fills regularly. The hut can accommodate day visitors for meals if you notify them in advance. Half-board prices are standard FFCAM rates. Bring cash in euros—card payments aren't always reliable at this elevation.
The hut is managed by the FFCAM (French Alpine Club) and holds 140 beds across multiple dormitories. Meals are served family-style at set times; half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard. The kitchen prepares hearty mountain food designed for hikers doing big days. There's no shower, though washing facilities are available. The hut stays open mid-June through September, occasionally extending into early October depending on weather and snow conditions. Winter mountaineers occasionally use it during the climbing season.
Book 4-8 weeks ahead for July and August, especially if you're part of a group. Call directly to reserve beds. Peak season runs mid-July to mid-August, when the hut fills regularly. The hut can accommodate day visitors for meals if you notify them in advance. Half-board prices are standard FFCAM rates. Bring cash in euros—card payments aren't always reliable at this elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 3–4 months ahead for July and August, especially if you're on the TMB route; call ahead to check availability and make a reservation.
Refuge Albert 1er is typically staffed from mid-June to mid-September; winter access requires alpine mountaineering skills and is not routine.
Most hikers approach from Chamonix, taking 5–6 hours from the Forclaz de Montmin trailhead (1,461m); the final 2 hours climb 800m steeply through alpine meadows and scree.
The hut has 140 beds in shared dormitories; dinner and breakfast are provided, with packed lunches available on request.
No—the steep final 2 hours and 800m elevation gain require solid fitness and acclimatization; it's best suited to experienced Alpine hikers doing multi-day treks like the TMB.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Season
- –
- Total
- 140
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 4 50 54 06 20
- Website
- https://refugealbert1er.ffcam.fr/