The Pointe Percée – Gramusset refuge is nestled at an altitude of 2,164 metres, at the foot of the iconic Aravis peak. In winter, it becomes a real haven for ski touring enthusiasts in search of authenticity. Accessible only by ski or snowshoe, it offers an extraordinary experience: a night in the mountains, far from the hustle and bustle of the resorts. The setting is spectacular, with breathtaking views of the Bargy, the wild valleys and the sharp ridges of the massif. The recently renovated refuge offers a warm welcome, a friendly atmosphere and a level of comfort rarely found in high-altitude accommodation. It is an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding routes, such as the Combe des Verts or the Pointe des Carmélites. When staffed, it offers excellent food, warmth, comfortable dormitories and an authentic mountain atmosphere. When unstaffed, part of the refuge remains open in winter mode, with wood, gas and blankets.
For more information or to make a booking, visit the refuge's official website.
Access to the refuge: a challenging but accessible route
Access to the Pointe Percée refuge in winter requires good preparation and some experience of the terrain. There are several possible routes:
The most common is from the Auberge Nordique in Le Grand-Bornand and then from Les Troncs, following more or less the summer path that climbs up to the refuge (approx. 1,000 metres elevation gain)
Alternatively, with the hiker's pass, it is possible to gain altitude via the Chinaillon ski lifts to Le Charmieux, then on to Têtes des Annes (1,869 metres), then switch to ski touring towards the refuge (be aware that the route may be tricky depending on conditions). This route offers an elevation gain of around 400 to 500 metres, with a descent on the slopes before tackling the final climb. You will need to purchase a hiker's pass at the ticket office.
The terrain is technical, sometimes avalanche-prone, and requires a good understanding of the snowpack. It is strongly recommended that you set off with a guide or find out about the conditions before setting off and prepare your routes on a map or GPS.
For the more experienced, there are more alpine variants, notably from Le Reposoir or L'Auberge Nordique, climbing up a couloir. The route also offers an opportunity to discover the winter wildlife, snow-covered landscapes and majestic silence of the Aravis. To enjoy this adventure in complete safety, the Annecy
Activities around the refuge: skiing, contemplation and exploration
Once you have settled into the refuge, there are many different activities to enjoy. Ski tourers can set off on classic routes such as the Col des Verts, the Combe des Chombas and Charvet, or even attempt the ascent of Pointe Percée for the more experienced. The terrain is technical and offers a variety of slopes, steep combs and aerial ridges. It is a paradise for mountain skiing enthusiasts, far from the crowds and noise. But the refuge is also a place for contemplation: you can simply enjoy the peace and quiet, watch the chamois and ibex, admire the play of light on the peaks or share a moment around the stove with other enthusiasts. In the evening, the starry sky is often spectacular, and the silence of the mountains invites you to disconnect. The refuge then becomes a true sanctuary, where you can fully recharge your batteries. Whether you come for the skiing, the nature or the atmosphere, the Pointe Percée refuge offers a unique experience, both sporting and human, in a preserved setting.
Enjoy the experience with Annecy guides
To make the most of this adventure, the Annecy Guides Office offers a two-day supervised trip, specially designed for intermediate ski tourers. This programme allows you to discover the routes around the refuge in complete safety, with the support of passionate professionals. The trip includes access to the refuge, route management, technical advice and an introduction to the mountain range. It's the perfect opportunity to improve your ski touring skills, learn how to read the terrain better and share memorable moments in the mountains. The guides also ensure safety in the face of avalanche risks and adapt the programme to the conditions at the time. The atmosphere is friendly, the pace is relaxed, and the setting is exceptional. This trip is perfect for those who want to experience a real alpine adventure without worrying about the logistics.
To book or find out more
