The Albert Premier Refuge, located above the Glacier du Tour, undergoes an extensive renovation, par of a wider program for the renovation of mountain refuges and huts.
Originally, the renovation work on the Albert 1er Hut was scheduled to start in spring 2011. Since then, there has been a lot of discussion but little action. One year later, in 2012, work was supposed to commence, but due to a lack of funding, the renovation process was delayed.
In June 2013, renovation work resumed and is expected to end June 2014. A total transformation is planned. This should place the Albert 1er Refuge among other mountain huts and refuges that provide accommodation and food at a high standard, such as the Gouter or the Argentiere Refuge.
The central stone building is to be enlarged and a new floor will be built on top.
The renovation includes several stages and objectives:
1. Strengthening of the structures;
2. Compliance with health and safety standards;
3. Installation of a 'hot roo'f system for improved thermal performance;
4. Installation of photovoltaic panels;
5. Installation of a module for processing the waste water and rainwater.
The total estimated cost is of 2.5 million Euros. The funds are being supplied by the FFCAM, the Chamonix Mairie, the General Council of Haute-Savoie, the European Union and the Rhône-Alpes region.
A Brief History of the Albert Premier Refuge
The refuge is named after King Albert I of Belgium. On 30 Aug 1930, The King inaugurated the new hut from Le Tour glacier. The hut was built by the Belgian Alpine Club. Subsequently, it was gifted to the French Alpine Club, currently the FFAMC (The French Federation of Alpine and Mountain Clubs). The original wood construction was enlarged in 1935. In the late 1950s, the large stone building was constructed behind the original structure. It came into service on 12 July 1959.
