Refuge de Lessy
1.3
1,776m
Valais, Switzerland
About
Refuge de Lessy sits at 1776m in the Valais region, serving as a base for hiking in the Chamonix-Valais chain. Reach it from the village of Le Châble by following the trail through the Mauvoisin valley; most hikers allow 2.5 to 3 hours. The hut is also accessible from Fionnay, though this approach takes longer. The location works well as a mid-point on multi-day traverses or as a staging post for peaks in the surrounding area.
The refuge is a simple mountain shelter run by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC/CAS). It has space for around 20 people in a mix of dormitory rooms. Meals are available — book dinner and breakfast when you reserve. Water comes from a spring; there's no shower. The hut operates year-round but is quietest outside summer months. Winter access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk; check with the hut before attempting a winter approach.
Book at least two to three weeks ahead for July and August, longer if you're planning a weekend. Contact the hut directly by phone or through the SAC website. The busiest weeks are mid-July through mid-August. Outside peak season, you can often find space with shorter notice. Bring cash for payment — card facilities are limited or unavailable.
The refuge is a simple mountain shelter run by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC/CAS). It has space for around 20 people in a mix of dormitory rooms. Meals are available — book dinner and breakfast when you reserve. Water comes from a spring; there's no shower. The hut operates year-round but is quietest outside summer months. Winter access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk; check with the hut before attempting a winter approach.
Book at least two to three weeks ahead for July and August, longer if you're planning a weekend. Contact the hut directly by phone or through the SAC website. The busiest weeks are mid-July through mid-August. Outside peak season, you can often find space with shorter notice. Bring cash for payment — card facilities are limited or unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 3–4 months ahead for July and August, especially if you're part of a larger group.
The hut is staffed from late June to late September.
Hike from Le Châble village through the Mauvoisin valley in 2.5 to 3 hours; the Fionnay approach is longer but also possible.
Expect basic mountain shelter conditions with bunk beds and simple meals; there is no shower.
Yes, the 2.5–3 hour approach from Le Châble is moderate and accessible to fit beginners; it's ideal as a first multi-day hut experience.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website
- https://lerefugedelessy.jimdofree.com/