Overnight stay in Cabane de Moiry

Imagine this: you're at 2,825 meters in the Swiss Alps, and you arrive at Cabane de Moiry. The breathtaking views over the Moiry Glacier and the surrounding peaks almost take your breath away. Spending a night in this hut is truly a highlight for any traveller in the Swiss Alps, believe me. The route to the hut starts with a beautiful walk alongside a lake formed by the Moiry Dam. Follow the narrow path next to the turquoise lake until you reach the opposite side. From there, you leave the lake behind and begin your ascent into the mountains. With a bit of luck, you might spot ibexes or marmots along the way. The final stretch to the hut is steep, with a short section secured by chains, but the reward is worth every step: a panoramic view of ice and rugged peaks. Once inside the hut, you can leave your heavy hiking boots behind and switch to cozy hut slippers to walk around. At any time of day, you can order meals at the hut, which are served in a dining hall with giant windows overlooking the glacier. The food is hearty and plentiful, perfect for refueling tired hikers. Expect typical Swiss meals - you know, the cheesy kind! They recently added a Wi-Fi connection, but you can still enjoy the digital detox the hut offers by chatting with fellow tired hikers and mountaineers or playing board games with newly met friends. Since the hut is also on the trail of “La Haute Route”, you'll meet people from all over the world - South Africans, Americans, Czechs, you name it! As night falls, you can watch the sun set and see its reflection on the snow, creating a stunning orange glow on the glacier. If you're lucky, you might even witness snow pillars collapsing due to the heat of the day. Most hikers will head to bed around 9 pm, as many will be leaving early the next morning for the next stage of their journey or to tackle a mountain. The following morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel up for your upcoming adventures. Typically, you'll find cornflakes, bread, jam, and yogurt on offer. And don't forget to fill your water bottle with “Marschtee”, a special tea served at the hut. After breakfast, you can either descend to the glacier or maybe try your hand at climbing a mountain. Some good options include Pigne de la Lé (PD) or Pointe de Mourti (PD+) (Do this only when you are experienced!). Or, if you prefer, take your time and descend back to the lake. Here are a few tips for your stay: • Book ahead: reservations are highly recommended during high season. • What to bring: a sleeping liner, sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, sun protection, enough water (since water at the hut is expensive), and earplugs (as you'll be sleeping in a dorm). • Respect the mountains: carry out your trash, use water sparingly, and be prepared for alpine conditions. Trust me, a stay at Cabane de Moiry is an unforgettable experience!