Cabane de la Tourche – Alpine Hut & Hiking Base Guide

The Cabane de la Tourche is a friendly mountain hut located above the Val d’Illiez, on the western foothills of the Dents du Midi. Well known among local hikers, trail runners, and ski tourers, it offers an accessible alpine experience focused on panoramic hiking, short summit objectives, and relaxed overnight stays rather than technical mountaineering.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Val d’Illiez / Chablais Alps, Canton of Valais, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,198 m

  • Type: Mountain hut / alpine refuge (served seasonally)

  • Capacity: Approx. 25–30 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically June to September

    • Winter: popular ski-touring stop (opening varies)

  • Management: Local / private association

• Access & Approaches

  Access is straightforward and well suited to regular hikers.

  • Main approach: From Val d’Illiez (e.g. Les Cerniers area)

  • Hiking time: ~2–3 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~700–900 m

  • Terrain: Forest trails, alpine meadows, well-marked mountain paths

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  The route is scenic and non-technical, ideal for relaxed mountain days.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are simple but comfortable for overnight stays.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping areas

  • Meals available during guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Toilets

  • Limited electricity or lighting

  Comfort level is modest and consistent with a traditional alpine refuge.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The hut is appreciated for its welcoming and social atmosphere.

  • Simple alpine cuisine

  • Homemade dishes when available

  • Popular lunch stop and overnight refuge

  Evenings are generally calm, with wide views over the Chablais Alps.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Moderate

  • Booking: Recommended for overnight stays

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  • La Tourche summit – short panoramic ascent

  • Day hikes on the flanks of the Dents du Midi

  • Ridge walks and scenic viewpoints

  • Winter ski-touring and snowshoe routes

  Routes are hiking-focused and mostly non-technical.

• When to Go

  • Best season: June to September (hiking)

  • Winter: Active ski-touring season

  • Conditions: Generally stable, weather-dependent

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Regular hikers

  • Trail runners

  • Ski tourers (winter)

  • Families with mountain experience

  • Not intended for technical mountaineering

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,198 m, the Cabane de la Tourche offers one of the most accessible and versatile hut experiences in the Chablais region. Its balance of easy access, panoramic terrain, and year-round mountain culture makes it an excellent base for both summer hikes and winter ski tours.