Auberge La Boerne

The sleeping rooms were the biggest problem. They were so packed there was barely space to stand or move, and I heard people in several rooms react with surprise and amusement when they first saw them. Some windows opened straight onto other bunks, so they were pointless. Ventilation was limited, and we ended up sleeping with the door open, which meant giving up privacy and security. Even though ours was a private room, we weren't given keys and couldn't lock up our things. We stayed one night while hiking the TMB. The refuge is close to the main part of town, but getting there meant a steep climb after a full day on the trail. That was just circumstance, not a major issue. The meal was decent for what it was: bean medley and plain rice for the main, bread, cheese and salad to start, then lemon cake. But for the price and how close it is to Chamonix and transport, it was rather appalling. There was no meat at all, even though I'd had meat at far less accessible mountain refuges. Toilets and showers are shared with campers nearby as well as guests in the building. From what I could see, there were only 2 toilet bowls and 3 showers for everyone, which wasn't enough. With scarce resources on a mountaintop, I could understand it a little more, but here it was puzzling. My guess is that margins matter more than the guest experience, perhaps because they know hikers have to take whatever refuge they can get.

The place was really cozy and nice. Dinner was good value, though I can see how the shared plates might not be enough if there are lots of hungry people at the table. There also weren't enough spots to charge devices.

The cute patio, flowers, and location charmed me when we arrived, but this turned into the worst stay of the whole TMB. It was oppressively hot and incredibly loud, and my bed felt like a rock. I think I slept about 2 hours all night. The food was the worst I ate during the 10 day trek. Whatever you do, don't get the pack lunch. Better yet, find somewhere else to lodge!

The rooms felt claustrophobic and like danger traps, with skinny ladders and low roofs. Absolutely horrible. I should've left before trying to sleep in there. Dinner was lettuce with dressing, plus a simple tomato-based veggie chili and rice.