Refuge de Bonavau
2.0About
Refuge de Bonavau sits at 1550m in Valais, serving as a base for hiking across the lower and mid-altitude valleys of the region. The hut is accessible by road or on foot from several approach routes depending on your starting point—confirm the exact trailhead when you book, as access varies seasonally. Most hiking approaches take 2–4 hours from nearby villages.
The refuge operates as a simple mountain lodge with basic but reliable facilities. It offers dormitory beds and private rooms, serves meals prepared from local and seasonal ingredients, and provides hot water and toilet facilities. The hut stays open year-round, though staffing levels vary between high and low season. Food and drinks are available on-site; bring cash as card payments may be limited. The refuge caters to hikers and serves as a waypoint for longer valley traverses.
Book directly by email or phone at least 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Outside summer, booking 2–3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient unless local holidays create demand. Check availability for meals when booking, especially if you're arriving late or need packed lunches for the next day. The refuge can get busy during school holidays and summer weekends; quieter periods are May–June and September.
The refuge operates as a simple mountain lodge with basic but reliable facilities. It offers dormitory beds and private rooms, serves meals prepared from local and seasonal ingredients, and provides hot water and toilet facilities. The hut stays open year-round, though staffing levels vary between high and low season. Food and drinks are available on-site; bring cash as card payments may be limited. The refuge caters to hikers and serves as a waypoint for longer valley traverses.
Book directly by email or phone at least 4–6 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Outside summer, booking 2–3 weeks ahead is usually sufficient unless local holidays create demand. Check availability for meals when booking, especially if you're arriving late or need packed lunches for the next day. The refuge can get busy during school holidays and summer weekends; quieter periods are May–June and September.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead during peak season (July–August); contact the hut by email or phone to confirm availability and any seasonal restrictions on access routes.
The hut operates year-round, though staffing levels and services vary seasonally—contact them directly for current opening dates and winter conditions.
Access is by road or on foot; hiking approaches take 2–4 hours from nearby villages, but confirm your exact trailhead when you book since access routes vary seasonally.
The refuge offers dormitory beds and private rooms with basic but reliable facilities; meals are served, though specific details on showers and amenities should be confirmed when booking.
Yes—at 1550m with 2–4 hour approach hikes, Bonavau works well for families and hikers new to multi-day trips, though you should verify trail conditions and your fitness level before booking.
Location
46.1508, 6.8662
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.0
Overall
Facilities
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +41 78 823 33 98
- Website
- https://www.facebook.com/Refuge.Bonavau/
Activities
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.