Refuge de la Charpoua

The place

A hut on the French side of the Mont Blanc massif, located at the foot of the Drus and the Aiguille Verte. Built between 1903 and 1904 by the Club des Sports Alpins de Chamonix, it remained almost unchanged for 118 years before being dismantled in August 2022 and then rebuilt on the same site in 2023. Access is from Montenvers, crossing the Mer de Glace and following the balcony path of the Mer de Glace.

A bit of history

#### ️ The Charpoua's Heritage: Chronicle of a Hut History and Transformation: Nestled at the foot of the Drus and the Aiguille Verte, Refuge de la Charpoua, or Refuge Charlet, has provided shelter in the Mont Blanc massif since it was built from December 1903 to July 1904 by the Club des Sports Alpins de Chamonix. For 118 years, this simple larch-wood cabin welcomed mountaineers before closing in August 2022 for an eagerly awaited renovation, with reopening planned for spring 2023. #### ️ Trails and Paths Approach Route: The path to the hut starts at Montenvers, crossing the Mer de Glace, then follows the scenic balcony path of the Mer de Glace. The access route, redesigned in 2016, calls for vigilance and caution. #### Culture and Tribute On the Big Screen: Refuge de la Charpoua features in the documentary "The High Life, The Final Season of Chamonix's Oldest Refuge," available on YouTube, testifying to its deep imprint on the hearts of mountaineers and film lovers alike. #### To Learn More Digital Exploration: For those wishing to learn more or plan a visit, the hut reveals its secrets on its website and on the alpinisme.com platform. #### To Explore Cultural References: Interested in other high-altitude adventures? The "List of huts in the Alps" offers an overview of havens of peace in the high mountains. #### References Sources and Further Reading: For curious minds and budding mountaineering historians, further references can be explored through the dedicated portals: hiking, mountains, the Alps, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.