Hut-keeper from mid June through end of September. Sleeps 68 (Winter 12)

Access: Montenvers train station - path and ladders down to glacier - yellow markers on glacier (2-3 hrs)

Charlotte, the marmot will be the first to greet you at the hut. Chubby Charlotte and her friends have been a popular attraction at Envers des Aiguilles where they are literally treated like princesses by Babeth, hut-keeper for 40 years. The marmots bathe in the morning sun as climbers stretch on the magnificent slabs nearby.

Strap on your crampons and follow the yellow markers on the Mer de Glace for a half-hour walk to the ladders which lead to a footpath for one of the most beautiful hikes in the mountains.

Amongst wildflowers and rhododendrons, continue up for two hours with views of famous peaks in all directions - including "La Verte", "Les Drus"", Les Grands Jorasses" and the basin of "Le Geant" glacier with its rosy needles towering above. Take your time to admire the scenery and listen to the gurgling streams rolling down the mountainside.

Upon your arrival, Mathilde will welcome you to this grand, natural amphitheatre. If you spend the night , you may sample the delicious (and famous) Envers chocolate cake and watch the sun rise above the "Point Isabelle" as you warm your spirits during breakfast on the terrace. Watch too the climbers (many are world class) performing their vertical gymnastics on the sunny slabs near the hut.

Many climbs for all levels are within a few minutes walk from the hut.