Hut-keeper on weekends in May, then mid-June through mid-September.
Call 04 50 47 23 99 for inquiries. Sleeps 151 (winter 24)

Access: Montenvers train - footpath down to glacier - cross glacier to far ladders then path to hut (3-4 hours). Beware! Glacier may have many crevasses, especially at start. Crampons necessary.

"Le Balcon de La Mer de Glace" for alpine hikers: A variation to access the Couvercle hut.
From Montenvers train station, follow footpath down to glacier, cross glacier to ladders directly opposite, (white square on rocks). This trail connects the Montenvers station with the Charpoua hut and the Couvercle, has many ladders for steep passages and a lovely view over the Mer de Glace. As you near the Couvercle hut listen for the marmots whistling as you soak in the incredible view towards the Grandes Jorasses and the Mont Blanc (3-5 hours)

Superb view of "Le Jardin de Talèfre" and the Grandes Jorasses. All level climbs accessible from hut.

The original, historic Couvercle cabin has been renovated and serves as a winter refuge. It is equipped with a gas burner , a wood/coal burning stove and an outdoor toilet. Here up to twenty four climbers and skiers will find comfortable shelter.

Michel Tavernier, hut-keeper since years, will welcome you to this mountain retreat. The pleasant staff will be happy to serve a hearty evening meal to you and the other guests in the dining room, where many famous mountaineers have dined before you.

Take a moment to reflect on the history of this hut. At the time of its construction, there wre no helicopters - all of the building materials were carried to the site.
The guide, Joseph Ravanel "Le Rouge" transported the 80kg stove on his back! He was also the hut-keeper for many years.

The Couvercle hut serves as an excellent relay for springtime ski touring in the Talèfre area.

Access to this idyllic corner of the Mont Blanc range from the Aiguille du Midi or from the Requin hut via the Pierre à Béranger is open to most skiers.

In summer, the hut is the departure point for numerous climbs and glacier hikes. Access either through the"Mer de Glace" and the "Egralets" or by the "Balcon de La Mer de Glace".