Refuge du Folly

Refuge du Folly is a mountain refuge located in the French Alps, in the Haute-Savoie department near the commune of Samoëns. Situated at an altitude of 1,556 metres, it clings to the Criou massif and looks out over the Giffre and Arve valleys, providing a panoramic setting between mountain and horizon. The refuge is a well-known stop for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region, accessible after roughly two hours of walking from the Crêt parking areas. It serves as a starting point for numerous climbing routes and circuits, and functions as a welcoming place for a meal, a snack, or an overnight stay. The refuge offers both private rooms and dormitories, with a total capacity of 72 persons. Its dining service is a central part of the experience: at midday, visitors can enjoy regional specialties such as farcement, croziflette, and fondue, alongside salads, omelettes, soups, a daily special, and homemade pastries and crêpes. In the evening, a single set menu is served to all guests, typically including unlimited soup, a complete main course with meat, vegetables, and starches, and a dairy-based dessert. The terrace and the fireplace provide spaces for relaxation, whether for a quick break or a longer stay. The refuge is typically open during the summer hiking season, from late May to late September. Its atmosphere is described as close to the local community while welcoming hikers of all nationalities. As a commercial hospitality offering, it operates as a mountain refuge brand under the name Refuge du Folly, with its own website for reservations and information. The refuge is recognized in the Alps as a refuge and appears in encyclopedic sources as a mountain shelter in Haute-Savoie.

Refuge du Folly is a mountain refuge in the Alps, located in the Haute-Savoie department of France. It sits at an altitude of 1,556 metres on the Criou massif, above the commune of Samoëns. The refuge has historically served as a shelter and waypoint for mountaineers, hikers, and shepherds in the Giffre valley. Over time, it has developed into a hospitality establishment offering meals and lodging, with a capacity of 72 persons across private rooms and dormitories. It is typically open during the summer season, from late May to late September, and is accessible after about two hours of walking from the Crêt parking areas. The refuge is known for its regional cuisine, including dishes such as farcement, croziflette, and fondue, and for its panoramic views over the Giffre and Arve valleys. It continues to operate as a refuge and is listed in encyclopedic sources as a refuge in the Alps.

• Refuge du Folly is listed as a refuge in the Alps with a capacity of 72 persons.

A high-altitude mountain refuge offering hospitality, regional food, and panoramic views to hikers in the French Alps.

• Mountain refuge accommodation

  Dormitories and private rooms for up to 72 people.

• Regional cuisine

  Midday specialties such as farcement, croziflette, and fondue; evening set menu.

1. 1Le Refuge du Follyrefuge-du-folly.fr
2. 2Refuge du Folly - Wikipediaen.wikipedia.org
3. 3Refuge de Folly - Wikidatawikidata.org