Refuge de Platé

Refuge de Platé sits at 2032m on the Platé plateau in the Haute-Savoie Alps. Most hikers approach from Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval in the Giffre valley. The walk takes 4.5–5 hours from the village and climbs steadily through beech forest before opening onto pasture. An alternative 2.5-hour route starts from Trélechamp on the opposite side. The terrain is well-marked but can be boggy after rain.
The refuge offers 35 beds across dormitory and private rooms, including three private double rooms. Half-board is standard: expect hearty French mountain cooking and vegetarian options if you request them in advance. The kitchen operates year-round, though staffing varies outside the main season. Showers are available, but there is no WiFi or mobile signal. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis; the refuge stays open throughout the year but confirm current conditions before heading up November to March.
Email or call ahead to check availability and pre-order dinner. July and August fill quickly—book at least 6 weeks early. Weekends book solid even in shoulder seasons. The hut sits at the intersection of several ridge walks and multi-day traverses, making it popular with experienced hikers doing longer loops through the Chaîne du Ruan. Single nights are accepted but less common than stays on through-routes. Weather can deteriorate rapidly; summer afternoon thunderstorms are frequent.