© Refuge du Gouter
Refuge du Goûter (3835m), Aiguille du Goûter
Pioneering mountain hut that is the highest guarded mountain refuge in France
The Refuge du Goûter mountain hut is situated at 3,835m and is a popular starting point for the ascent of Mont Blanc.
Two years of work and €6 million went into creating the new hut which was inaugurated in 2014.
A pioneering mountain hut, not just in terms of its architecture but also in its approach to energy sustainability and the environment. The new refuge is able to accommodate 120 alpinists who will benefit from solar and wind powered electricity, triple glazing, recycled water, and many other eco-friendly features.
This is modern hut is utterly in line with other global initiatives to encourage mountain lovers to think responsibly and limit their environmental impact wherever possible.
The refuge offers half-board, B&B or bed only accommodation; there is a picnic room for those who have brought their own food but there is no access to cooking facilities. Vegetarian meals can be provided on request but please let them know in advance of your arrival.
The refuge is open and staffed from mid-May to end of September, depending on weather conditions. Out of season, the refuge is unstaffed but beds, blankets are dishes are made available for 20 people.
Please contact the refuge directly for this season's prices and its opening and closing dates.
Worth knowing
Pre-booking for this hut is compulsory and must be done online - here. Alpinists who have not booked will not be let inside the hut.
Bivouacking and camping in the vicinity of the hut are strictly prohibited.
There are two breakfast sittings: 02:00 and 07:00.
Dorms are equipped with duvets and pillows, you need to bring a personal sleeping sheet. Bathrooms are on every floor, but you will not find any running water.
The refuge is open and staffed from mid-May to end of September, depending on weather conditions.
Out of season, the refuge is unstaffed but beds, blankets and dishes are made available for 20 people to shelter in the annex.
The only water you can get here is sold in plastic bottles which are expensive, bring your own food if you are likely to need more to eat than they provide in order to summit Mont Blanc.
