CAF Chamonix : refuge Albert 1er

REFUGE ALBERT 1^er

phone 04 50 54 06 20 alt 2706 m

The most accessible hut in the Mont Blanc range with a lovely, panoramic view of the Le Tour Glacier, the "Aiguille Verte" and the north face of "Le Chardonnet".

Hut-keeper: Weekends in May if weather permits, then mid June through September.
Phone hut-keeper for more information: 04 50 54.14.36. Sleeps 137 (Winter 30, no hut-keeper)

Access : Charamillon gondola, Balme chairlift then footpath (1.5 hrs) or by the moraine from Le Tour (more difficult, 1300m vertical gain, 3-4 hrs)

The Albert 1er is one of the rare alpine huts accessible to a family with children.

Attention - the trail has several short passages which are exposed and parents should be prudent with their children. You may want to "rope up" younger children and avoid choosing a picnic spot under rockfall areas.

Danger! Early season (May-June) snowfields may pose some danger and require particular attention and equipment.
Call the hut (04 50 54 06 20) or the CAF in Chamonix (04 50 53 16 03) for up-to-date information on actual conditions.

You will encounter abundant flora and fauna along the path to the hut. Whistling marmots warning their friends of your passage will add a musical note to your hike. You are likely to see a few of these mountain residents sunning themselves or hunting among the rocks for their lunch.

The hut-keepers will welcome you warmly to this unique refuge.

If you would like to spend the night, do not forget to reserve as this hut is a popular destination. At sunrise you will be able to watch climbers and glacier hikers heading off as the early rays brighten the "Chardonnet".

le Chardonnet

Mountain weather can change quickly and a hike which starts in the rain in Le Tour could easily end up in brillant sunshine at the hut.

Your reward will be an exceptional view of the mountains and glaciers emerging from the mist. When you arrive, treat yourself to a piece of "hutmade" tart and an espresso or enjoy a full meal on the terrace.

The Albert 1er is the departure point for numerous climbs and glacier hikes.

The first hut was inagurated by King Albert of Belgium on August 30, 1930 and still stands!
This wooden structure was enlarged in 1935 and is currently used as a winter refuge. It is equipped with blankets, wood, coal and gas.
In summer, the old refuge serves as staff housing and in a pinch as extra lodging as well.
The present stone construction was inagurated on July 12, 1959 and was built alongside the old wooden one.

If you use the winter hut, please remember to pay your night fee.

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