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Refuge De La Balme (1706m), Les Contamines - France

Refuge De La Balme (1706m), Les Contamines - France

Updated on January 7, 2026
★★★★★ 4.7/5 - 400+ verified reviews
Altitude 1 706 m5,597 ft
Season June - September
Capacity 40 people

Michael GUT, the last in a line of wardens, manages the Refuge de la Balme in the nature reserve of Les Contamines-Montjoie (74170, Haute-Savoie). Passionate about nature, he is also a ski instructor and mountain guide.

The refuge, at 1706m altitude near the Aiguille de la Pennaz, is on the TMB, GR5, Tour du Beaufortain and Tour du Pays du Mont-Blanc trails. Nearby, a bivouac area is freely accessible without reservation.

Please note this should not be confused with the Refuge du Col de Balme or the communal Refuge de la Balme in the Beaufortain (73).

Accommodation is available on a half-board basis:

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