Refuge de la Charpoua
0.8
2,841m
Valais, Switzerland
About
Refuge de la Charpoua sits at 2,841m on the north face of Mont-Blanc, reached via the Chamonix valley. The standard approach takes 4–5 hours from Montenvers (1,913m), following the Mer de Glace glacier and moraine before climbing steep scree to the hut. This is serious terrain: crampons and an ice axe are essential in early season, and the route crosses crevassed glacier. From Chamonix town, allow 6–7 hours total. The hut also serves climbers descending from Mont-Blanc or the Grand Jorasses.
The refuge holds 60 people in a mix of dormitories and private rooms. It operates year-round but staffing is minimal November to March; contact ahead if visiting outside peak season. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard. There's running water, but the toilet is a composting system—bring your own paper. The kitchen serves hearty mountaineering fare rather than fancy meals. This is a working hut for climbers and alpinists, not a leisure destination.
Book direct with the hut from June onwards. July and August fill quickly; contact by mid-May if you need a guaranteed bed. Expect crowded dorms during the Mont-Blanc climbing season (June–September). The hut closes entirely for several weeks in autumn for maintenance. Check the SAC's website for current opening dates and staffing status before planning your visit.
The refuge holds 60 people in a mix of dormitories and private rooms. It operates year-round but staffing is minimal November to March; contact ahead if visiting outside peak season. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard. There's running water, but the toilet is a composting system—bring your own paper. The kitchen serves hearty mountaineering fare rather than fancy meals. This is a working hut for climbers and alpinists, not a leisure destination.
Book direct with the hut from June onwards. July and August fill quickly; contact by mid-May if you need a guaranteed bed. Expect crowded dorms during the Mont-Blanc climbing season (June–September). The hut closes entirely for several weeks in autumn for maintenance. Check the SAC's website for current opening dates and staffing status before planning your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; the hut fills quickly with Mont-Blanc climbers. Email or call directly—no online booking system.
Open mid-June to mid-September, depending on glacier and snow conditions; call ahead in early season to confirm access.
From Montenvers (accessible by train from Chamonix), follow the Mer de Glace glacier and moraine for 4–5 hours; crampons and ice axe are essential, especially before July. The route crosses crevassed terrain and requires glacier experience.
Dinner and breakfast included with your bed; expect basic facilities—no showers, water from melted snow or a nearby stream.
No—this is a mountaineering hut, not a hiking refuge. You need solid glacier skills, cramponing ability, and prior high-altitude experience. Most visitors are climbers on Mont-Blanc or Grande Jorasses routes.
Quick Facts
- Season
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- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website