Refuge de la Traye

Perched high in the alpine cradle of Méribel, the Refuge de la Traye is a unique and atypical escape in the middle of the mountains. Established in 1982 and completely rehabilitated in 2019, this refuge elevates the reception offer to the rank of exception. With its complete renovation and expansion, the Refuge de la Traye has birthed a new model of hospitality: the first high-end refuge in the heart of the French Alps.

Here, the sounds of nature reign supreme, with the profound silence of the peaks punctuated only by the wind’s gentle sigh through the pines and the far-off murmur of a stream. The refuge offers a tranquil escape, inviting you to live and feel the mountains. Constructed with a reverence for traditional Savoyard architecture, the charming mountain chalets feature stone walls and wooden beams that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Each chalet embodies the rustic beauty of the region, yet within, one discovers a world of understated elegance and contemporary comfort.

The Refuge de la Traye is a journey toward luxury, offering six spacious rooms and suites, each named after local flowers, with views that stretch to the horizon, where the jagged silhouettes of the Alps stand guard over the valley below. The interiors, thoughtfully designed, offer a harmonious blend of natural materials and high-tech amenities, creating an oasis of modern sophistication amidst the rustic beauty of the mountains. The careful attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the chalets reflects the perfect balance between heritage and innovation.

The culinary experience is a journey through the rich flavors and traditions of the Savoyard region. The restaurant offers many gourmet moments to be enjoyed in a warm, inviting room with breathtaking views, as well as on the panoramic terrace facing the snow-capped peaks. The Cheese Farm is a true celebration of Savoyard hospitality. Here, guests can savor a variety of local specialties, including tastings of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and a curated selection of wines. This unique venue provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments with friends or family. Whether it’s a traditional raclette or a fondue evening, the Refuge de la Traye promises an authentic and delightful gastronomic experience that embodies the heart and soul of the French Alps.

Offering unparalleled access to world-class winter sports, the refuge becomes an ideal destination for a winter getaway. In the summer, it transforms into a haven of tranquility and adventure, with the swimming pool providing a striking spectacle. With direct access from your room, you can take a dip in its crystal-clear waters as alpine meadows and majestic peaks create a comforting cocoon—a perfect spot for relaxation and wonder. All year round, guests can enjoy the spa, a serene retreat set in an enchanting universe designed to delight the senses. This peaceful haven invites you to fully recharge, with an atmosphere conducive to rest and relaxation. Whether you’re unwinding after a day on the slopes or soaking in the beauty of the summer mountains, the Refuge de la Traye combines luxury and nature to create unforgettable moments of peace and rejuvenation.

Continuing the experience, the refuge also offers a cozy movie room where guests can unwind with a selection of films, providing entertainment after a day of adventure. For those looking to take a piece of the Alps home with them, the boutique shop is a treasure trove of local products. Believing in the richness of the Alpine terroir, the shop reflects a commitment to preserving traditions and culture. The product range includes honey, handmade candles, and other unique items, often crafted from raw materials harvested in the surrounding area, ensuring their quality and uniqueness. Among these treasures is the famous genepi, an iconic mountain liqueur, carefully distilled from the wild herbs of the mountains.

Adding a spiritual dimension to your stay, the chapel of the Refuge de la Traye is dedicated to Saint Bernard of the Alps, the patron saint of mountaineers. Saint Bernard, known for founding the Hospices du Petit and Grand Saint Bernard, is celebrated as the protector of the passes. In the nineteenth century, he was depicted with a rescue dog, the famous Saint Bernard, known for aiding victims of the mountains and giving the breed its name. This chapel stands as a serene place of reflection, honoring the legacy of compassion and bravery.

Deeply rooted in local traditions, the Refuge de la Traye embraces innovative and connected technologies in a spirit of eco-responsibility. With a strong commitment to preserving the environment, the refuge integrates sustainable practices into every aspect of its operations. This dedication extends to the protection of wildlife, as the refuge proudly supports “Le Tétras Libre,” an association devoted to rescuing, caring for, rehabilitating, and releasing wild animals in distress. This harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with a profound respect for nature, defines the Refuge de la Traye as a sanctuary that values both heritage and forward-thinking sustainability.

With top-of-the-range services, elegant rooms, and exclusive mountain activities, the Refuge de la Traye masterfully blends authenticity and luxury, offering an unparalleled experience that captures the true charm of the French Alps. It is a place where the spirit finds solace in simplicity, a sanctuary for the soul, and a retreat into the primal rhythms of the earth. Here, every moment is crafted to create a symphony of comfort and natural beauty, inviting guests to reconnect with themselves and the majestic environment around them.