Refuge des Quatre Croisées

Refuge des Quatre Croisées sits at 2,255m in the Vaud Alps, on the watershed between the Dranse and Avançon valleys. You reach it from Les Diablerets (1,150m) via the Lac Noir trail in 3.5 hours, a steady climb through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. Alternative access comes from Château-d'Oex via Col de la Gueulaz (2,002m) in 4 hours. The hut serves as a base for traverses across the Les Diablerets massif and approaches to Pic Chaussy and Mont d'Arvel. Snow often blocks higher passes until June.
The refuge manages 70 beds across multiple dormitory rooms. Meals are provided: a substantial dinner and breakfast included with accommodation. The kitchen handles vegetarian and vegan diets if you request ahead. A simple bar serves hot drinks and snacks throughout the day. Water comes from a reliable spring. The hut typically opens late May and closes in September, though it operates weekends only in shoulder months—confirm current season dates before planning. No shower facilities; washing is basic. Pit toilets are outside. Cell reception is patchy.
Book directly by email or phone at least 4 weeks ahead for July and August. June and September are quieter but still fill on summer weekends. The refuge can accommodate group bookings but requires 10+ person minimums and advance notice. Bring cash; card payments are not reliably available at this altitude. The hut sits on SAC/CAS walking routes and is managed by local mountain guides.