Refuge des Mottets Basics
45.7371, 6.7792
80 beds
Dormitory and private rooms available
Bookings typically open in early-October
Opening dates: June – September
Book at AuTourduMontBlanc.com
Email : refuge@lesmottets.com
Refuge des Mottets sits deep in the valley below the Col de la Seigne and is one of three accommodation options in the Vallée des Glaciers section of the Tour du Mont Blanc. Hikers typically arrive here after walking or taking the navette from Les Chapieux or via the challenging Col des Fours alternate route.
The former dairy farm has been converted into a lovely refuge that has a large dormitory sleeping area as well as smaller four person rooms and private double rooms. The refuge consists of multiple buildings and sits in a spectacular location with stunning views all around.
Bookings are made on the Au Tour du Mont Blanc website and typically open in early-October for the following summer. The refuge opens in early-June and tends to stay open until the last week of September each year.
Read on below for a detailed description of what it is like to stay at Refuge des Mottets while hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc!
Refuge des Mottets Experience
Photos & Write Up Contributed by: Renee Prulhiere
On the hike to Refuge des Mottets, the panoramic views charmed every hiker, keeping the excitement alive even when they reached their destination. Despite being nearly hidden until you’re almost on top of it, this refuge is a hidden gem along the TMB trail.
Upon approach, hikers are greeted by a pleasant outdoor area with picnic tables and shades. Guests could spend hours nestled at the cozy picnic tables, enjoying the scenery and delighting in the playful sight of marmots running across the lush valley. Past the outdoor area, was the heart of Refuge des Mottets – the dining hall and kitchen. Overnight guests, or just those passing through, could order a beer and a piece of blueberry cake to enjoy.
Across a small courtyard, two buildings stood. The one on the left hosted baggage services and dormitory-style beds, while the one on the right housed shared bathrooms with private stalls and showers. Adjacent to these facilities was another structure offering more private sleeping rooms with varied arrangements, from single beds to bunk beds. The rooms in this building provided different bathroom setups, some with private amenities, and others with additional shared spaces. The shared bathroom spaces were a tad more private, as they were only shared amongst the guests with private rooms.
A main highlight of Refuge des Mottets undoubtedly included the dinner experience, which turned out to be a trip favorite for many travelers. Seated with fellow hikers, the meal commenced with a hearty soup, followed by a savory cabbage salad, sausage with a tomato sauce, and a squash and rice dish. The culinary delight concluded with a sweet crème brûlée. While guests ate, the meal was accompanied by music from a unique instrument and a dance performance by an adorable French toddler.
Charging stations at the refuge were strategically placed, a bit high, but were easily reachable, which ensured hikers could power up their devices conveniently. Showers, while not scorching, provided a refreshing relief after a day of trekking. While there was no wi-fi or cell service, the absence was hardly noticed as the natural surroundings and good company made up for it.
The day began with a standard refuge breakfast at 7:00 AM, while picnic lunch options offered substantial portions that favored sharing. These filling meals featured a varied selection and catered to different tastes and preferences.
Refuge des Mottets was a very pleasant experience. Shared spaces were kept clean, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the views were outstanding, which enriched the overall refuge experience.
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