That's La Plagne
La Plagne Refuge’s: Secret spots to stay with your family
When most people think of La Plagne, they picture snow-covered slopes and winter sports. But La Plagne has so much to offer in the summer too, especially for families. One of the best-kept secrets of our alpine paradise is the network of mountain refuges. These cosy lodges aren’t just for winter—they’re perfect for a summer family adventure.
Join behind the scenes today and get the insider scoop
What is a Refuge?
With these facilities and pricing, Refuge Bois offers a comfortable and inclusive experience for families, school groups, and outdoor enthusiasts at the gateway to Vanoise National Park.
A refuge in the context of the French Alps is a mountain hut or lodge located high up in the mountains. Originally designed to provide shelter and basic amenities to hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts. These refuges have evolved over time to offer a unique and welcoming experience for families as well. They typically feature dormitory-style accommodation, shared dining areas, and sometimes private rooms. While the amenities are often simple, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, offering an authentic alpine experience.
Staying in a refuge means you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Alps. Far from the hustle and bustle of town, refuges are usually accessible only by foot, which adds to the sense of adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or simply want a peaceful retreat, a refuge provides an excellent base for your summer activities in La Plagne.
La Plagne Refuges
There are seven refuges that you can stay in throughout La Plagne:
1. Refuge d’Alpage Foran
Refuge Chalet d'Alpage in La Plagne offers a unique and comfortable stay for families. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
On the ground floor, you’ll find a room with four single beds, a shower room, and separate toilets. The first floor features a bright living space with a fully equipped kitchen, dining room, and lounge area, which opens directly onto a terrace. The mezzanine provides four more single beds and stunning mountain views.
The main heating is provided by a wood-burning stove in the living room, with portable oil heaters as backup. A solar panel ensures electric light in every room, though there are no electrical sockets. To charge your devices, use your car battery or visit the city hall.
Pillows and blankets are provided, but bring your own sheets or sleeping bags. The kitchen is equipped with a gas stove, oven, refrigerator with freezer, and a terrace barbecue, along with all necessary crockery and cooking utensils. There’s also a cellar for keeping cold liquids, fruits, and vegetables.
The living room and dining area offer a large table and two comfy sofas, perfect for stretching out and relaxing. With these amenities, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a wonderful time in the heart of the French Alps.
Open April – October. 00 33 (0) 4 79 09 71 52 / logement2@laplagnetarentaise.fr
2. Refuge Bois
Open year round. Booking: 00 33 04 79 55 05 79 / refuge.lebois@vanoise-parcnational.fr
Refuge Bois is conveniently located next to the Vanoise National Park and is accessible by car throughout the year. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, you can reach the refuge easily by road, with nearby parking available. The site accommodates large groups, with bus parking for up to 50 places.
The refuge offers dormitory-style sleeping arrangements partitioned into “dorms” for added comfort. Each dorm contains four single bunk beds and is closed by a curtain for privacy. Duvets and pillowcases are provided, though guests are advised to bring their own personal cloth items. The sanitary facilities include separate washbasins and individual showers for men and women, although bathroom linen is not provided.
A beautiful dining room seating 80 people, plus a terrace, ensures ample space for meals. There’s also access to a picnic room. Refuge Bois is inclusive, offering wheelchair access to the dining room and toilets. Additionally, the refuge provides an all-way module and three audio guides for people with motor and visual disabilities.
The refuge is accredited by the Departmental Education of Savoie to host schoolchildren and features an animation/projection/seminar room for 35-40 people, equipped with video-projection tools. During the summer, the Vanoise National Park offers various animations and activities.
Pricing
Winter Season (16/12/2023 to 28/04/2024)
- Night: from €25
- Child rate per night: from €15
- CAF member rate per night: from €25
- Breakfast: from €8.50
- Breakfast (child): from €8.50
- Picnic to take away: from €13
- Dinner: from €28
- Half board (per person): €24 to €61
- Group rate per night: from €25
Summer Season (01/06 to 30/09/2024)
- Night: from €20
- Child rate per night: from €12
- CAF member rate per night: from €20
- Breakfast: from €8.50
- Breakfast (child): from €8.50
- Picnic to take away: from €13
- Dinner: from €28
- Half board (per person): €24 to €54
- Group rate per night: from €25
With these facilities and pricing, Refuge Bois offers a comfortable and inclusive experience for families, school groups, and outdoor enthusiasts at the gateway to Vanoise National Park.
3. Refuge de la Baume
refuge-labalme@outlook.fr / 00 33 (0)4 50 47 03 54
Refuge de La Balme, managed by Michaël Gut, carries a rich family legacy dating back to the 1950s. Michaël, who also serves as a ski instructor and mountain guide, follows in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. The refuge aims to offer a warm and welcoming environment where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and the company of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Is a perfect spot at the foot of the Aiguille de la Pennaz (2668 m) along the Tour du Mont-Blanc, Refuge de La Balme is within the Contamines-Montjoie nature reserve, the highest in France. This stunning setting is a two-hour hike from the Notre-Dame de la Gorge parking lot. The reserve extends from the banks of the Bon-Nant at 1100 m to the summit of the Aiguille de Tré-la-Tête at over 3800 m. It features a wide variety of mountain environments including forests, high-altitude meadows, peat bogs, scree slopes, and glaciers.
The refuge itself provides a rustic yet comfortable experience, offering overnight stays in dormitories or private rooms on a half-board basis. Recent updates in 2021 include a new room ideal for families or couples, featuring a double bed and a bunk bed. The refuge also offers hot showers, though guests are reminded that water is a precious resource in this remote location.
Meals are served in the refectory, with dinner starting at 6:30 pm. The meal includes a starter, a hot dish, local cheese (like Beaufort or tomme), and dessert. Breakfast is served at 7:00 am, ensuring guests are well-prepared for a day of exploration. For the following day's lunch, the refuge provides a picnic with tabbouleh, charcuterie, tomme cheese, bread, fruit, and a homemade cookie. Sandwiches are also available for those who prefer a simpler option.
Refuge de La Balme operates with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the past three years, renovations have been undertaken to reduce the refuge's ecological footprint. These improvements include re-roofing, installing solar panels, and replacing doors and windows for better insulation. The refuge minimises plastic use, encourages waste sorting, and aims to have as little impact as possible on the environment. Guests are encouraged to fill their water bottles to avoid the use of plastic bottles.
4. Refuge du Plan des Gouilles
Open year round but staffed at specific times. Gardienne Sandrine: 00 33 (0)6 08 98 19 02
Refuge du Plan des Gouilles is on a sloping ledge overlooking the Champagny valley. From the refuge, you can enjoy stunning views of the north slopes of Grand Bec and Pointe du Vallonnet, as well as the Bellecôte mountains. This serene location offers a peaceful escape and a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The refuge provides comfortable dormitory-style sleeping arrangements. When the refuge is not staffed, it remains partly open with 28 beds available. It is equipped with essentials such as gas, firewood, and blankets for hikers. This ensures that even during off-peak times, you can enjoy a warm and safe shelter.
When the refuge is staffed, meal services are provided. It's advisable to check with the keeper for specific meal times and offerings. The dining experience includes breakfast, dinner, and picnic options, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals amidst the stunning alpine scenery.
Pricing
- Adult: €18.60 per night
- Children: €10.25 per night
- Breakfast: €8
- Dinner: €18
- Picnic to Take Away: €9
5. Refuge La Glière
Open from mid June: contact@refugedelagliere.fr
Refuge Les Glières is high up at 2010 metres in the stunning French Vanoise National Park, in the village of Champagny en Vanoise. Accessible only by foot, bike, or horse riding, this refuge offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Alps. Motorised vehicles aren’t allowed on the refuge path to preserve the pristine environment, so prepare for an adventure on your way up. The path is an easy hike, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with a 450-metre elevation gain. Along the way, you might spot marmots and, if you're lucky, ibex.
Refuge Les Glières provides two types of accommodation: a traditional shepherd's dormitory and a brand-new four-bed room. This ensures a cosy and authentic alpine experience. For a restful night, make sure to book your bed in advance through their website, as availability can be limited.
Les Glières is known for its simple yet delightful food offerings. They serve a variety of local and organic foods, with a focus on home-made dishes. Guests can enjoy meals prepared with care, including omelettes, mixed salads, local cheeses, dried meats, and vegetable soup. Their selection of French wines complements the meals perfectly.
For those just stopping by, the refuge offers a range of cold and hot beverages to quench your thirst or warm you up. Sweet treats like home-made pies, cakes, pancakes, and the famous blueberry jam with “fromage blanc” are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Refuge Les Glières stands out for its commitment to local and sustainable food practices. In this secluded spot without modern energy facilities, they strive to provide great food that honours the traditions and produce of the region. This focus on quality and sustainability enhances the overall experience, making your stay both enjoyable and environmentally friendly.
Refuge Les Glières invites you to enjoy the beauty of the French Alps with its blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. Whether you're looking for a hiking adventure, a peaceful overnight stay, or a gourmet break in breathtaking scenery, this refuge provides an unforgettable alpine experience. Book your stay and enjoy the unique hospitality of the Vanoise National Park.
6. Refuge de Plaisance
00 33 (0)4 58 24 00 81 / refuge.plaisance@vanoise-parcnational.fr
Tucked away in the Plaisance valley, within the Vanoise National Park, Refuge de Plaisance is the perfect spot for nature lovers. Whether you're on a day hike or a multi-day tour, this refuge offers tranquillity and a chance to meet fellow adventurers.
The Plaisance refuge consists of two chaloin-style cabins: one with the wardens' dining room and kitchen, and the other housing a 32-place dormitory and sanitary facilities. The refuge is open from mid-June to mid-September.
What You'll Find at the Refuge:
- Accommodation: Dormitory with comforters and pillows (bring your own sheet-bag and pillowcase).
- Water: Drinking water available for bottle refills.
- Showers: Free cold showers; hot showers cost extra due to limited gas supplies.
- Kitchen: Available for self-cooking at €2 per person.
- Electricity: Powered by solar panels; no phone charging or network. Bring an external battery.
- Bivouacs: Available next to the refuge for €5 per person, including access to kitchen and facilities. Booking required.
- Heating: Chalet-refectory with a wood-burning stove.
Feeling peckish? The refuge offers daytime catering with omelettes, cheese and charcuterie slates, pastas, sweet tarts, and cakes. For evening meals, enjoy a hearty, balanced dinner made from local, organic produce. Don't forget to book your picnic the day before your arrival.
Book your stay online with a €10 per person deposit. Online bookings close 48 hours before arrival—call for last-minute reservations. Inform us of any dietary requirements when booking.
For a day visit, no booking is needed. Drop by anytime for a meal or a snack.
7. Laisonnay Refuge
Enjoy the mountains and the peace and quiet at Refuge du Laisonnay, a small family-run refuge accommodating around 15 guests. This intimate and peaceful spot offers a restful break with a gourmet dinner, perfect for recharging amidst the often busier hiking routes.
You can really feel the spirit of the mountains in the cosy dining room, where a home-cooked dinner is served by candlelight. Your stay includes breakfast, ensuring you start your day well-nourished and ready for adventure. Accommodations are clean and comfortable, available in dormitory, mezzanine, family room, or tents.
Bookings include:
- Clean Sheets: Bedding is freshly washed after each stay.
- Power and Connectivity: Solar-powered electrical outlets for device charging and satellite Wi-Fi access to stay connected. Most forms of payment are accepted.
- Hot Showers: Enjoy free, token-free hot showers with convenient sanitary facilities inside the refuge.
- Parking: Leave your car in our parking lot during your mountain tour for peace of mind. You can also drop off and recycle garbage from other refuges.
Reservations are compulsory for stays at the refuge, including bivouac nights. Ensure you book in advance to secure your spot.
Refuge du Laisonnay offers a unique blend of comfort and seclusion in the heart of the mountains. Enjoy a candlelit dinner, cosy accommodations, and exceptional services in this tranquil alpine refuge.
That’s La Plagne & the Best La Plagne Refuges
Staying in a refuge around La Plagne offers a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and a deep connection with nature. Whether you choose the cosy charm of Refuge Chalet d'Alpage, the family-friendly Refuge Bois, the tranquil Refuge du Plan des Gouilles, the secluded Refuge Les Glières, or the traditional Refuge de La Balme, you are sure to create unforgettable memories.
Each refuge provides its own special touch, from breathtaking views and local cuisine to eco-friendly practices and rich histories. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and experience the best of the French Alps with a stay in one of these exceptional refuges.
See you on the slopes!
