Ever fancied spending the night high above the valley and off the beaten track, at a traditional Alpine mountain refuge? Well, it’s one of our favourite ways to spend an evening here at Alpine Retreat. In both the summer and the winter, it can be both breathtaking and serene at the same time.
The mountain refuges of the Alps developed from the growth in recreational mountaineering and climbing in the second part of the 19th Century, combined with the rural communities need to have shelter when the cows are at high pastures in the summer. These huts became not only a base for hikers and climbers but an important refuge in case of emergencies or bad weather.
Nowadays, there are many refuges reachable from Chatel which offer spectacular views and a sense of remoteness. A couple we would recommend are firstly, Refuge des Tinderet. One of the few refuges open both summer and winter. In the winter the host, Serge, offers an evening in which he meets his guest at the beginning of the walk with snow shoes for everyone. After an hour peacefully walking up through the valley, he serves you up at traditional feast of fondue, charcuterie and wine. After dinner you can head back down on snowshoes or stay over and build a fire to sit around and relax. In the morning snowboard or ski back down for an unforgettable experience.
For a more traditional use of a refuge, try Refuge Des Dent D’Oche, situated just before the summit of the 2222m peak. During the summer it is approximately a 6 hour round trip to the summit when hiking from Bernex (20 minutes from Chatel). With views of Lake Geneva and towards Mont Blanc, factoring in an overnight stop at the refuge turns this hike into an unforgettable experience. To borrow the words of Robert Service: “It is the beauty that fills me with wonder, the silence that fills me with peace.”
If you would like to visit a refuge during your stay with us get in touch now!
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