Vallon du Manchet
A pristine alpine valley in Parc de la Vanoise, offering stunning hikes, ski touring, and abundant wildlife like marmots and chamois.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, wildlife active
Vallon du Manchet
Best Time
Clear skies, wildlife active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine alpine valley in Parc de la Vanoise, offering stunning hikes, ski touring, and abundant wildlife like marmots and chamois.
"My favourite refuge in the Parc de la Vanoise. Lovely staff and again an amazing spot."
Book Refuge in Advance
Reservations can get lost; confirm your booking for a warm welcome and good food! :bed:
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Layers are key for hiking and enjoying the views. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Marmot Spotting
Throughout the valley
Keep an eye out for these charming alpine residents basking in the sun. A true delight for nature lovers!
Breathtaking Vanoise Views
High vantage points
Panoramic vistas of the Parc de la Vanoise that will leave you speechless. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Chamois Sightings
Near the refuge
Witness the grace of chamois in their natural habitat, often seen surprisingly close to the refuge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Alpine Majesty
Wildlife Encounters & Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Refuge in Advance
Reservations can get lost; confirm your booking for a warm welcome and good food! :bed:
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Layers are key for hiking and enjoying the views. :cloud:
Respect Wildlife
Observe marmots and chamois from afar; never feed them. :camerawithflash:
Guided Tours Recommended
Enhance your experience with a guide for backcountry adventures. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Refuge in Advance
Reservations can get lost; confirm your booking for a warm welcome and good food! :bed:
Pack for All Weather
Mountain weather changes fast! Layers are key for hiking and enjoying the views. :cloud:
Respect Wildlife
Observe marmots and chamois from afar; never feed them. :camerawithflash:
Guided Tours Recommended
Enhance your experience with a guide for backcountry adventures. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Vallon du Manchet for its breathtaking natural beauty and the opportunity to encounter wildlife like marmots and chamois. The refuge is highlighted for its warm welcome, good food, and stunning location, making it a favorite spot for many. Some minor issues with reservation management have been noted, but overall, the experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"My favourite refuge in the Parc de la Vanoise. Lovely staff and again an amazing spot. Love all the marmots 🥰"
Nicky Donkin
"Toured there with a guide from Val D'Isere. Probably the most incredible place I've stopped for a beer and lunch."
Connor Barbour
"Great nature, good place to stay for a night"
Mat Gessler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vallon du Manchet is typically accessed from Val d'Isère. Depending on the season, you can hike or ski tour into the valley. During summer, it's a popular hiking destination, and in winter, it's a prime spot for ski touring adventures.
Parking is generally available in Val d'Isère, from where you can begin your journey into the Vallon du Manchet. The final approach is often on foot or skis.
Direct vehicle access into the heart of Vallon du Manchet is restricted to preserve its natural environment. The final leg of your journey will be on foot or by other non-motorized means.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Vallon du Manchet is part of the Parc de la Vanoise, and generally, there are no entry fees for day visitors. However, if you plan to stay at the refuge, booking is essential.
As a natural valley, Vallon du Manchet is accessible year-round. The refuge has specific operating hours and seasons, so it's best to check their availability if you plan to stay overnight.
While the Parc de la Vanoise is a protected area, general access to its valleys like Vallon du Manchet is usually free for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Specific activities or guided tours might incur charges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Vallon du Manchet is ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting (marmots, chamois),
photography, and in winter, ski touring. Guided nature walks are also sometimes available.Yes, families can enjoy gentle hikes and the chance to see wildlife.
The natural beauty provides an engaging environment for children to explore.You have a good chance of spotting marmots and chamois.
Keep an eye out for other alpine fauna as well.Wild camping is generally not permitted in national parks like Parc de la Vanoise to protect the environment. Staying at the designated refuge is the recommended option.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the refuge in Vallon du Manchet offers meals, often praised for being good and hearty, perfect after a day of activity.
It's advisable to book your meals when booking your stay.You are welcome to bring your own snacks and packed lunches for your hikes. However, for overnight stays, enjoying the refuge's meals is part of the experience.
The refuge typically serves traditional mountain cuisine, providing substantial meals to fuel your adventures.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a view! Higher elevations offer panoramic shots of the Vanoise Alps.
The valley floor with its streams and wildflowers is also picturesque, especially with wildlife present.Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, creating beautiful golden hour shots. Wildlife is also often more active during these times.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or drone usage might need authorization from the Parc de la Vanoise authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛷️ Ski Touring Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking and Trekking in Vallon du Manchet
For those seeking a more immersive experience, staying at the refuge is highly recommended. It serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring further afield. The surrounding peaks offer opportunities for more strenuous treks, rewarding hikers with spectacular vistas of the Vanoise National Park. Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots and pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited once you leave the immediate vicinity of the refuge.
Ski Touring and Winter Adventures
It's crucial to be well-prepared for winter conditions. Avalanche safety is paramount, and skiers should always check avalanche forecasts and carry appropriate safety gear, including a transceiver, probe, and shovel. Hiring a certified mountain guide is strongly advised for those unfamiliar with the area or backcountry skiing techniques. The refuge remains open in winter, offering a warm haven after a day on the snow.
Wildlife and Nature Observation
Beyond these charismatic mammals, the valley is home to a variety of alpine flora and fauna. During guided nature walks, often led by Vanoise National Park rangers, visitors can learn about the delicate ecosystem and identify different plant species and birdlife. It's essential to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, refraining from feeding them to preserve their natural behaviors and habitat. The presence of these animals is a testament to the protected status of the Parc de la Vanoise.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit