Refuge du Montenvers

Le Refuge de Montenvers is undeniably beautiful. The decor is refined, warm, and thoughtfully designed—exactly what you’d hope for in a high-mountain refuge with a touch of elegance. And the view? Absolutely insane. Overlooking the Mer de Glace and the surrounding peaks, it’s the kind of panorama that stops you in your tracks and makes the journey feel completely worth it. That said, the location has unfortunately become far too touristy. The area around Montenvers now feels overrun with selfie sticks, TikTok stands, and even drones. Many people seem to come up solely to snap a photo and leave, which creates massive crowds and insane lines—especially when trying to get back down on the train. This takes away from the magic and serenity you’d expect from such a spectacular alpine setting. The restaurant experience was mixed. The food itself was great—well prepared and satisfying. However, the service seriously detracted from the experience. Two waiters were very rude. One of them outright refused to give us a table for lunch because we didn’t have a reservation. We were not informed that hotel guests were required to make a lunch reservation, and at the time, the restaurant was clearly not full. The attitude was condescending and unnecessary. Thankfully, another staff member—much kinder and more professional—stepped in and gave us a table. Overall, Le Refuge de Montenvers is stunning and memorable for its design and views, but the overwhelming tourism and inconsistent service prevent it from being the exceptional experience it could (and should) be.

Very disappointing. The location may be nice, but it’s a nightmare to get there, but apart from that they charge you like a luxury hotel for what is basically a dump. The shower was literally dirty, there was no shampoo or hair dryer, and overall the room felt very cheap. The hotel wasn’t heated; at the restaurant we had to sit with blankets and it was still cold. The food was mediocre, and we ended up with diarrhea afterward.

The most special accommodation I have ever stayed at. The staff were so lovely and helpful, and went above and beyond to make sure our stay was super special. Food was spectacular. The accomodation itself is beautifully restored and in keeping with the landscape. It felt like a dream the entire stay. Can’t wait to return.

I have been up to Refuge du Montenvers each year since it opened. It is a very rare place that embodies the spirit and triumph of adventure and great achievement, while retaining a humble humility reflected in the experience, the hospitality, the decor and the setting beneath the might of Mont Blanc while perched valiantly on its promontory. The staff are always excellent and welcoming hosts and the new manager and grand hostess Elizabeth really bring it all together. I felt very at home and safe, especially after making the risky climb just before nightfall in heavy snow this winter, a reminder that this is more than an incredible hotel with many comforts and remains an important refuge that saves lives to this day, where the doors are always left open at night…

We really enjoyed our stay, such peaceful and magical place. Nothing better to recharge one's batteries. The evening was spectacular, eating and hearing the big waterfalls, one could stare at the mountains and the glacier for days. I can only try to imagine what it would have looked like in the early part of the 20th century. The refuge is definitely a special place. We will be back again!

Absolutely wonderful stay! Julian and team were outstanding. We were celebrating a wedding present with our sister and brother in law. The food was amazing, the drink plenty and the views to die for. We felt really special and enjoyed every moment. Thank you.

Historic place in stunning landscape!! The hotel’s interior is well renovated and the local food very nice. We were very disappointed with the hospitality and kindness of the team. Due to a private event at the Refuge, the staff refused to serve us a cappuccino and a soft drinks during the day. There is no other restaurant up there and the guests had not been informed about this inconvenience. Although the place is very nice, the service and hospitality of the refuge does not respond a Grand Hotel at all.

I book a 500euro gift card for my parents in law. The validity is only of 2 years. When my parents in law tried to book a night the gift card was 5 months expired. Even after several emails, no help from the hotel. They cashed the 500euros and provided no service. How is this even legal in France?