Highlight • Pub
Rifugio Bellachat
Escursionismo
4.9
(127)
Corsa
5.0
(12)
Refuge de Bellachat is a renowned mountain refuge and pub nestled high in the French Alps, offering a spectacular vantage point at an elevation of 2,152 meters. Located in the Haute-Savoie region, this charming wooden structure provides unparalleled panoramic views of the majestic Mont Blanc massif and the expansive Chamonix valley. Situated between the Aiguillette des Houches and the Brevent peak, it also overlooks the impressive Bossons glacier, making it a key landmark within the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve. Visitors…
Suggerimenti
19 luglio 2021
Escursionismo
A causa delle ripetute siccità, l'accesso all'acqua è diventato difficile al rifugio. Prima di salire, non dimenticate di riempire le borracce a valle.
•10 agosto 2021
Corsa
•Percorsi qui
I migliori Tour verso Rifugio Bellachat
4,9
(50)
649
escursionisti
Escursione difficile. Ottimo allenamento richiesto. Sentieri prevalentemente accessibili. Richiesto passo sicuro.
4,9
(35)
502
escursionisti
16,9km
08:17
1.300m
1.300m
Escursione difficile. Ottimo allenamento richiesto. Sentieri prevalentemente accessibili. Richiesto passo sicuro.
4,7
(22)
492
escursionisti
26,1km
10:41
1.530m
1.530m
Escursione difficile. Ottimo allenamento richiesto. Sono richiesti passo sicuro, calzature robuste ed esperienza alpinistica.
Dettagli
Informazioni
Elevazione 2.160 m
Buono a sapersi
Adatto alle famiglie
sì
Accesso privo di barriere
no
Pernottamento
sì
Area campeggio disponibile
sì
Meteo
Offerto da Foreca
martedì 3 marzo
11°C
-2°C
0 %
Ulteriori consigli sul meteo
Velocità max vento: 1,0 km/h
Più visitato durante
gennaio
febbraio
marzo
aprile
maggio
giugno
luglio
agosto
settembre
ottobre
novembre
dicembre
faq
What is the typical hiking difficulty to reach Refuge de Bellachat?
The hike to Refuge de Bellachat is generally considered intermediate to challenging, depending on your starting point. While a 45-minute walk from the top of the Brévent cable car is relatively moderate, trails originating from the valley, such as from the Merlet animal park in Les Houches, involve significant elevation gain and can be more demanding. Hikers should be prepared for mountain terrain.
Is Refuge de Bellachat accessible during the winter months?
Refuge de Bellachat typically operates seasonally, from June to September. Outside of these months, the refuge is closed, and access can be extremely challenging due to snow, ice, and avalanche risks. Winter hiking or snowshoeing to the refuge is only recommended for experienced mountaineers with appropriate gear and knowledge of alpine conditions.
Are there specific parking options for hikers heading to Refuge de Bellachat?
Yes, parking is available at the trailheads leading to the refuge. For those starting from Les Houches, parking can be found near the Merlet animal park. If you plan to use the Brévent cable car, there are parking facilities in Chamonix town center. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking spots can fill up quickly.
Can families with children enjoy the hike to Refuge de Bellachat?
The suitability for families depends on the children's age and hiking experience. The shorter route from the top of the Brévent cable car might be manageable for older children accustomed to hiking. However, routes from the valley floor involve substantial elevation gain and are generally more strenuous, making them less suitable for very young children or those new to mountain hiking. Always assess the trail difficulty and your family's capabilities.
Is Refuge de Bellachat dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally welcome on many trails in the French Alps, specific rules may apply within the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve and at the refuge itself. It's best to check directly with the refuge or local park authorities regarding their current policy on dogs, especially if you plan to stay overnight. Always keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife.
What kind of accommodation and meals are available at the refuge?
Refuge de Bellachat offers basic yet authentic mountain accommodation, typically in bunk beds within dormitories. They provide half-board, bed and breakfast, or bed-only options. Meals feature typical alpine food, including homemade soups, salads, local cheeses, cured meats, and delicious blueberry tarts. A sunny terrace is available for refreshments and enjoying the views.
Are there any circular hiking routes that start and end at Refuge de Bellachat?
Refuge de Bellachat serves as an excellent base for various hikes. While it's a popular stop on longer treks like the Tour du Mont Blanc, you can also plan circular routes. For example, you could ascend from one valley point (e.g., Les Houches), reach the refuge, and then continue towards the Brévent peak before descending via the cable car back to Chamonix, or explore other trails within the Aiguilles Rouges massif to create a loop.
What are the most notable natural features or landmarks near the refuge?
Beyond the stunning panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and Bossons glacier, the refuge is nestled within the Aiguilles Rouges nature reserve and the Carlaveyron reserve. This area is known for its diverse alpine flora and fauna, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as marmots and ibexes. The unique wooden architecture of the refuge itself, rebuilt after historical events, is also a notable feature.
How long does it typically take to hike to Refuge de Bellachat?
The hiking time varies significantly based on your starting point. From the top of the Brévent cable car, it's approximately a 45-minute walk. However, if you start from the valley floor, such as from the Merlet animal park in Les Houches, the ascent can take several hours, typically 3-5 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Are there any nearby amenities like cafes or pubs close to Refuge de Bellachat?
Refuge de Bellachat itself functions as a pub and restaurant, offering meals and refreshments on its sunny terrace. Due to its remote mountain location at 2,152 meters, there are no other cafes or pubs in its immediate vicinity. The closest amenities would be found in the towns of Chamonix or Les Houches, accessible after descending from the mountain.
What should hikers know about water availability at Refuge de Bellachat?
Due to repeated droughts, access to water at Refuge de Bellachat has become difficult. Hikers are strongly advised to carry sufficient water bottles filled from the valley before ascending. While the refuge provides basic amenities, relying solely on their water supply might not be feasible, especially during dry periods.