Goûter Refuge

Refuge du Goûter sits at 3,815m on the normal route to Mont Blanc's summit. The hut stands on the Grand Goûter plateau, roughly 4 hours' walk above Nid d'Aigle (2,372m) on the Goûter route. Most climbers approach via the Tramway du Mont-Blanc railway, which reaches Nid d'Aigle. The final push to the refuge crosses scree and rocky terrain; expect loose rock and exposed sections. Snow and ice persist into June on this route.
The refuge holds 120 beds in dormitory accommodation. It serves dinner and breakfast, essential for acclimatization before your summit attempt. The hut operates a self-service tea and coffee station. There are no showers; bring a wet wipe and accept being slightly grimy. Water is available. The refuge sits above the weather for most of summer but remains cold—night temperatures drop below freezing even in July. Opening dates run from early June through early September, depending on snow conditions and staffing.
Book directly by email or phone as soon as your climb date is set. July and August fill 2-3 months in advance. If the refuge is full, alternative beds may be available at Goûter shelter just below, though it's more basic. Arriving the day before your summit attempt is standard practice; this gives you one night to acclimatize before the 3–4 hour predawn push to the summit. Expect the hut to be crowded—you'll share space with many other climbers preparing for Mont Blanc.