Refuge Joli Boiron
2.6
Vaud Alps, Switzerland
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About
Refuge Joli Boiron sits at 2,002m in the Chaîne des Aravis, east of Annecy. Access from the north takes 2 hours from the Parking du Col de la Loze (1,628m), following a well-marked path through alpine meadows and larch forest. From the south, allow 2.5 hours from Thônes via the Forclaz de Montmin (1,461m). Both routes are straightforward day hikes in summer.
The refuge is open year-round and sleeps 30 people in dormitories. Half-board is available (dinner and breakfast included). A self-catering kitchen is available if you bring your own food. The hut operates as a base for walking routes across the Aravis range and for winter mountaineering approaches to Mont-Blanc via the Chaîne des Aravis. Water and basic supplies are on-site; no hot showers, but washing facilities exist.
Book directly with the hut for July and August; May to October is busy but rarely turns people away. The guardian stays year-round. Winter access requires mountain experience and appropriate gear—the hut becomes a true refuge in heavy snow. The location sits just outside Parc National des Écrins, in an area popular with local hikers from the Thônes and Annecy valleys.
The refuge is open year-round and sleeps 30 people in dormitories. Half-board is available (dinner and breakfast included). A self-catering kitchen is available if you bring your own food. The hut operates as a base for walking routes across the Aravis range and for winter mountaineering approaches to Mont-Blanc via the Chaîne des Aravis. Water and basic supplies are on-site; no hot showers, but washing facilities exist.
Book directly with the hut for July and August; May to October is busy but rarely turns people away. The guardian stays year-round. Winter access requires mountain experience and appropriate gear—the hut becomes a true refuge in heavy snow. The location sits just outside Parc National des Écrins, in an area popular with local hikers from the Thônes and Annecy valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; 4–6 weeks for shoulder seasons. Contact the refuge directly by phone or email as it operates year-round with limited staff in winter.
Open year-round, but fully staffed and serving meals June to September; winter visits require advance notice and self-sufficiency.
From the north: 2 hours from Parking du Col de la Loze (1,628m); from the south: 2.5 hours from Thônes via Forclaz de Montmin (1,461m). Both are well-marked, straightforward day hikes.
30 beds in dormitories; half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard, with a self-catering option available.
Yes—both approach routes are easy day hikes on clear paths through meadow and forest, with no exposed terrain or scrambling required.
Location
46.4989, 6.4677
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2.6
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