What will I find at the refuge?

Services vary depending on the period. During the staffed period (mid-June to mid-September), you will find the following at the refuge:

• Facilities

  - The dormitory is equipped with duvets and pillows. For hygiene and comfort, please bring a "sleeping bag liner" (or lightweight sleeping bag) and, optionally, a pillowcase.

  - Potable water is available to fill your bottles.

  - Showers: Cold showers are free, but hot showers are optional and come at a cost, as gas is delivered by helicopter and is limited.

  - For self-sufficient hikers, a communal cooking area is available for 3€ per person.

  - Electricity is generated solely by solar panels and is precious, depending on the weather. As such, phone charging is not available at the refuge. Switch your phone to airplane mode and bring a power bank if needed. There is no mobile network or Wi-Fi at the refuge.

  - Bivouacking next to the refuge is allowed during the staffed period for 6€ per person. This fee includes access to the communal cooking area and sanitary facilities. Reservation is required as spaces are limited.

  - The dining chalet has a wood stove for heating.

• Food service

Feeling hungry?

• During the day, we offer food and beverages at any time. Enjoy omelets, cheese and charcuterie platters, pasta, sweet tarts, and homemade cakes. A well-deserved break!

   

• In the evening, we welcome hikers in half-board or bivouac mode. Half-board includes a hearty and balanced meal made with local and organic ingredients (subject to supply). You can also reserve a packed lunch for the next day by notifying us by email at least 2 days before your arrival.

                                 Organization and operation of the mountain hut

If you're not yet familiar with how a mountain refuge works, visit the page "My First Night in a Mountain Hut," where you'll find all the practical and technical information you need, along with answers to any questions you might have to make the most of your stay! Click HERE to access it.

How to book?

Reservations can be made online HERE. A deposit of €10 per person is required. Online reservations close 48 hours before the day of your stay. If you plan to stay within the next 48 hours, call us to book!

When making your reservation, don’t forget to inform us of any dietary restrictions and order picnics if needed! Due to our remote location, we need to plan our supplies in advance.

If you're stopping by for a snack during the day (lunch, afternoon treats, etc.), no need to reserve! We’ll be happy to welcome you at any time.

What do I need for an overnight stay?

• - A "sleeping bag liner" or lightweight sleeping bag (mandatory for hygiene).

  - A headlamp (useful for nighttime needs).

  - Warm clothing for the evening (nights are cooler at 2170 m).

  - Earplugs (to ensure a peaceful night's sleep in case of snorers).

Crocs are available at the refuge for removing your hiking boots.

Additional Notes:

• Electricity is very limited due to solar dependence. Charge your phone before your stay and conserve its battery (e.g., airplane mode).

  Cold showers are free; hot showers are optional and require a fee (3€).

  Payment is cash or check only; credit cards are not accepted due to our remote location.

   

OPERATION OF A mountain hut

A refuge is a shared living space that promotes exchange and community. Everyone is included and contributes to the experience.

• Tips for refuge life:

  Help out! Assist with setting the table, cleaning up after meals, and folding your duvet before leaving.

  Respect the fragile natural environment—take your trash with you. Waste removal is a physical challenge for the staff, so we ask visitors to pack out their own waste.

•  Upon arrival

Upon arrival, check in with the caretakers (in the kitchen or serving on the terrace). They will guide you on where to store your bags, assign beds, explain water access, and answer any questions. Arrive early to settle in and enjoy the surroundings before dinner.

• Diner

Dinner is served at 7 PM and features a single menu:

- Organic vegetable soup
- Main course (meat with a side or vegetarian option)
- Cheese
- Dessert

Meals are served communally, fostering shared experiences with fellow hikers. All food is homemade, and fresh ingredients are brought up manually. Bread is handmade and baked on-site.

• Breakfast

Breakfast is served between 7 AM and 8 AM. It includes homemade jams, hot drinks, cereals, milk, butter, crispbread, semolina cake, handmade bread.

                               The history of the refuge

To showcase this protected area and improve tourist facilities, the Vanoise National Park built the first chalet of the Refuge de Plaisance in 1968. A second chalet, designated for sleeping accommodations, was constructed in 1974.

Located at an altitude of 2,170 meters, these buildings have faced nature's elements, particularly the wind and avalanches. The force and impact of these events can be extremely powerful.

The Troubles of a Mountain Hut

2023: A New Chapter for the Refuge