Refuge du Requin
Refuge du Requin is a staffed backcountry hut at 2,516 m on the Vallée Blanche itinerary above Chamonix, run by Mathilde LAGASSE. It’s set up for an overnight stop or a midday break in this high-alpine corridor, with a dedicated winter hut for the off-season period.
In the guarded period it’s open on specific intersaison weekends (22–24 May and 6–7 June), then kept through the summer from 12 June onward, with reservations opened for the guarded season. Outside the guarded period, the winter refuge is accessible and provides about twenty bunks, blankets, and a small kitchen with utensils; bring gas, and plan for water sourced from around the refuge rather than piped systems. A passage fee of 10 euros is requested—paid by dropping it into the provided slot—and you’re asked to reserve your spot when the hut is guarded to support operations; also plan to carry out your rubbish, since storage is limited and the waste truck can’t reach up there.
Day-of practicalities: electricity is limited, so charge ahead and use portable power if you need it. In winter there’s no running water (so no shower), and water is handled via a monitored melting system, so use water thoughtfully. Contact is available by phone on the refuge’s site, and the hut’s booking/checklist flow is handled through that same system.