Refuge de L'Abricotine
1.2
Valais, Switzerland
About
Refuge de L'Abricotine sits at 2,550m in the Mont-Blanc massif, accessed via the Chamonix valley. The standard approach is 3–4 hours from Montenvers, climbing steeply through alpine meadow and scree. Most hikers break the journey by overnighting at Montenvers railway station (1,913m) first, then push to the refuge the next day. The final 800m elevation gain is exposed in places; bring a headtorch if arriving in fading light.
The refuge offers 24 beds across mixed dormitories and 2 private rooms. Hot showers are available, which is a bonus at this elevation. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; menu is typical refuge fare—filling mountain food, not fancy. The SAC manages the hut and it opens June through September, depending on snow conditions. The guardian is usually resident by late June. Water comes from snowmelt or mountain streams; verify reliability with the hut before arriving in dry years.
Book direct by email or phone at least 6–8 weeks ahead for July and August. The refuge fills quickly in summer, especially weekends and during school holidays. May or early June offer better availability and fewer crowds, though snow may linger above 2,500m and some sections require secure footing. September is your best bet for a quieter experience and settled weather. Arrive by early afternoon to secure your bed and settle in before dinner service.
The refuge offers 24 beds across mixed dormitories and 2 private rooms. Hot showers are available, which is a bonus at this elevation. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; menu is typical refuge fare—filling mountain food, not fancy. The SAC manages the hut and it opens June through September, depending on snow conditions. The guardian is usually resident by late June. Water comes from snowmelt or mountain streams; verify reliability with the hut before arriving in dry years.
Book direct by email or phone at least 6–8 weeks ahead for July and August. The refuge fills quickly in summer, especially weekends and during school holidays. May or early June offer better availability and fewer crowds, though snow may linger above 2,500m and some sections require secure footing. September is your best bet for a quieter experience and settled weather. Arrive by early afternoon to secure your bed and settle in before dinner service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the refuge by email or phone at least 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends; weekdays and shoulder season (June, September) have more availability.
The refuge is typically staffed from mid-June to mid-September; check directly as dates vary by year.
Hike 3–4 hours from Montenvers (1,913m), gaining 800m over steep alpine meadow and scree; most people overnight at Montenvers first and climb the next day.
The refuge has 24 beds in mixed dorms and 2 private rooms, plus showers—a rarity at this altitude that makes it a popular stop.
No; the 3–4 hour approach with 800m elevation gain and exposed sections near the top demands solid fitness and scrambling experience.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 24
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
- 2
Facilities
Showers
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +33 4 50 74 17 43
- Website
- http://www.refuge-abricotine.com/