Highlight • Pub
Ruitor Refuge
Hiking
5.0
(18)
Mountain biking
5.0
(6)
The Refuge du Ruitor is a welcoming mountain hut nestled at an elevation of 2,032 meters in the heart of the French Alps. Located on the Sassière plateau within the valley of the Petite Sassière, this refuge offers a unique blend of accommodation, restaurant services, and a pub, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the imposing Ruitor massif in Savoie. It serves as an essential stop for adventurers exploring the high mountains, providing a comfortable base in a truly wild setting. The nearest village is La Masure in Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise.
Visitors consistently praise the warm welcome and excellent facilities at Refuge du Ruitor. Hikers appreciate the well-equipped nature of the hut, which includes comfortable sleeping arrangements, on-site catering featuring fresh, local produce, and even a special artisan beer. Many highlight the refuge as a perfect spot to rest and refuel before continuing their journey, noting the friendly atmosphere and the option for a comfortable mountain bivouac in their unique "Safari tents."
Accessing the Refuge du Ruitor typically involves a scenic walk, with the most common approach being a 1 to 1.5-hour hike from the Savonne car park. Alternatively, a longer 3-hour trek from La Masure is also an option. The terrain around the refuge varies, offering a range of hiking routes for different abilities. While the refuge is well-equipped with amenities like running water and solar heating, visitors should always come prepared for mountain conditions with appropriate footwear and clothing.
The best time to visit Refuge du Ruitor depends on your preferred activity. During spring and summer, the refuge is guarded and offers full catering services, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the numerous small lakes nearby. In winter, it transforms into a popular destination for ski touring enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its stunning views of glaciers and serves as a gateway to challenging ice climbs towards the Ruitor summit, as well as being part of the famous Haute Route Glaciaire circuit.
The surroundings of Refuge du Ruitor offer truly majestic mountain landscapes. From here, you can soak in panoramic views that stretch across the Mont Blanc, Grand Paradis, and Vanoise massifs. Many visitors cherish the opportunity to witness the wild beauty of the Petite Sassière massif and find the area perfect for family-friendly hikes, with plenty of opportunities to discover hidden gems and scenic viewpoints within a short distance of the refuge.
Whether you're planning a multi-day trek or a day hike, the Refuge du Ruitor provides an excellent starting point for exploring the French Alps. You can discover a variety of hiking routes, ski touring adventures, and snowshoeing trails around this iconic location. To plan your next adventure and find the perfect path for your skill level, explore the many options available on komoot, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this remarkable mountain haven.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ruitor Refuge
4.4
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125
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10.5km
04:43
650m
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Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.2
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57
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15.2km
07:39
1,130m
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5.0
(1)
42
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03:55
600m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,030 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 15 June
20°C
7°C
39 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking routes starting from Refuge du Ruitor?
The Refuge du Ruitor serves as an excellent base for various hikes. Popular options include half-day treks to Col du Tachuy (2800m) or Col de Montseiti (2500m). You can also explore numerous small lakes within 1.5 hours of the refuge. For a more challenging day hike, consider reaching the Deffeyes refuge in Italy via the Tachuy, or attempting ice climbs to the Ruitor summit at 3500m.
Is Refuge du Ruitor suitable for families with children?
Yes, the area around Refuge du Ruitor is considered perfect for family-friendly hikes. The refuge itself is part of the "refuge en famille" group, offering board games and explanations about its operations for children. There are many easy hiking routes and opportunities to discover natural features within a short distance, making it an enjoyable destination for all ages.
What are the parking options and access details for Refuge du Ruitor?
The most common access point is from the Savonne car park, which typically involves a 1 to 1.5-hour walk to the refuge. A longer 3-hour trek is also possible from La Masure. For those with reduced mobility, authorized 4x4 access is available. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly.
Can I bring my dog to Refuge du Ruitor or on nearby trails?
While the refuge itself may have specific policies regarding pets inside, the surrounding trails are generally accessible for dogs. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or where livestock might be present, and to always clean up after them. Check with the refuge directly for their current pet policy regarding overnight stays.
What kind of accommodation is available at Refuge du Ruitor?
The refuge offers 39 sleeping places, distributed between a 12-person mezzanine and a 27-person dormitory with bunk beds. Each bed is provided with a mattress, fitted sheet, two blankets, and a bolster. In summer, unique "Safari tents" are also available for a comfortable mountain bivouac, accommodating 4 to 6 people with camp beds and duvets.
What are the best times for winter hiking or ski touring near Refuge du Ruitor?
Refuge du Ruitor is a popular destination for ski touring in winter. While the refuge is unguarded for parts of the winter, it remains open and monitored. For guarded periods with full services, typically spring and summer are best. If planning a winter visit, ensure you are well-equipped for snow and ice conditions, and check the refuge's guarding schedule and weather forecasts in advance.
Are there any specific natural landmarks or viewpoints to look out for?
Absolutely! The area boasts stunning views of glaciers and offers panoramas of the Mont Blanc, Grand Paradis, and Vanoise massifs. You'll also find numerous small lakes within a short walk from the refuge, and the wild beauty of the Petite Sassière massif is a constant backdrop. The Lac du Ruitor itself is a significant natural feature worth visiting.
What amenities does Refuge du Ruitor offer for visitors?
The refuge is well-equipped with gas, running water (on the sink in summer, indoor fountain in winter), cooking utensils, crockery, and lighting. It utilizes solar heating and photovoltaic panels for electricity, emphasizing sustainable tourism. During guarded periods, it offers on-site catering with fresh, local produce, and even has a special artisan beer. There's also a pub and restaurant service.
What is the history of Refuge du Ruitor?
Originally an old alpine chalet, the Refuge du Ruitor was first restored in 1974 by the Club Alpin Français (CAF). It underwent significant renovations in 1989, expanding its capacity. After being un-guarded but monitored for many years, it has been guarded again since 2016 by passionate wardens, Sandra and Morgan, who focus on sustainable practices and local offerings.
What is the elevation of Refuge du Ruitor?
The Refuge du Ruitor is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,032 meters (or 2,038 meters, depending on the source) above sea level, placing it high in the French Alps within the Sassière plateau.