The unforgettable experience of sleeping in a mountain hut
Staying in a mountain refuge is a unique experience that offers nature lovers a chance to immerse themselves completely in breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re a keen hiker or simply looking for an authentic adventure, spending the night in a mountain hut allows you to enjoy some truly magical moments.
In this article, discover why staying in a mountain refuge is an unforgettable experience.
Discovery, conviviality and authenticity
The charm of mountain huts
Mountain huts are often nestled in the heart of spectacular landscapes, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys and crystal-clear lakes.
These traditional stone or wooden buildings exude a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
They are a meeting place for mountain enthusiasts, providing the chance to forge unique bonds with fellow adventurers.
A moment’s rest after a day’s hiking
Spending the night in a mountain hut is a well-deserved reward after a day’s hiking in the mountains.
You can relax and rest your tired legs in peaceful surroundings. Mountain huts generally offer bunk beds or dormitories, with basic facilities such as toilets and a communal lounge. Although simple, the comfort on offer is enough to allow you to rest and recharge your batteries.
The friendly atmosphere and the chance to chat with fellow enthusiasts
Mountain huts are gathering places where you’ll share unique moments with other mountain enthusiasts.
Evenings at the mountain hut are a chance to swap stories, tips and experiences with people from all over the world. You can enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the hut warden and create unforgettable memories by sharing moments of camaraderie with fellow hikers.
The magic of sunrises and sunsets
Staying in a mountain hut gives you the chance to experience spectacular sunrises and sunsets in the mountains.
Imagine gazing at the first rays of the sun illuminating the surrounding peaks, or marvelling at the sky as it takes on warm hues at sunset. These magical moments will remain etched in your memory.
Access to prime hiking routes
Mountain huts are often strategically located along popular hiking routes.
By staying in a mountain refuge, you can explore exceptional trails and reach remote areas of the mountains that would otherwise be difficult to access. This allows you to enjoy a more immersive hiking experience, discovering unspoilt landscapes and venturing off the beaten track.
So, are you tempted?
Here are three mountain huts accessible from Méribel:
Refuge du Saut
From the Tueda car park in Méribel-Mottaret, it takes about 2 hours’ walk to reach the Refuge du Saut. This hike takes you past the lake and the Plan de Tueda nature reserve, as well as through the Vallon du Fruit.
Please note: bookings must be made by telephone on 09 74 77 60 38, and payment is made at the refuge by cheque or cash (credit cards are not accepted).
You can even extend the walk to Lake Chanrouge for a peaceful swim.
Refuge des Lacs Merlet
Allow 5 hours’ walking from Lake Tueda to Méribel-Mottaret; the route is not particularly difficult, and you’ll pass by various lakes: the Lac des Fées, Lake Chanrouge and, finally, the two Merlet Lakes near the refuge. Please note: as this refuge is quite small, advance booking is compulsory by telephone (no text messages) on 04 79 06 56 76.
Refuge de la Traye
The refuge can only be reached on foot or by bike. From Le Villard, in the Les Allues district, it is 5 km to the Refuge de la Traye. You can extend the walk slightly by passing through the village of Les Allues, which offers a great opportunity to explore the traditional hamlet. A luggage transfer service is available, allowing you to hike light to the refuge.
Treat yourself to a timeless escape at this refuge, which offers top-class facilities.
