Top 12 Huts and Cabins around La Chaux (Cossonay)

The region offers a variety of shelters, from simple forest huts ideal for picnics to larger refuges suitable for day trips. Examples include the Bois de la Côte Shelter, which has a stove and fireplace, and the Refuge de la Buennaz, known for its simple, harmonious architecture blending with the forest.

Yes, several huts are well-suited for families. The Bois de la Côte Shelter and Refuge de la Créttaz (Dizy) are both categorized as family-friendly. The Mont Pelloux Forest Shelter also offers a nice spot with a fire pit and table, perfect for family outings.

The Refuge de la Créttaz (Dizy) is located at the border of the forest and provides amazing views over the Alps. In the broader Jura Vaudois region, the Cabane du Cunay offers panoramic views over the Lake Geneva basin from Mont Tendre's summit, which is accessible from the hut.

The area around La Chaux (Cossonay) is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for gravel biking, running, and mountain biking. Many huts are situated along these routes, making them ideal rest stops.

While not directly in La Chaux (Cossonay), the Chalet des Pralets in the Vaudois Jura Park is a recognized stopover gîte, particularly during winter. A cross-country ski trail connects the Cols du Marchairuz and La Givrine directly past the chalet, and it remains open even when unguarded, providing wood for a fire and basic amenities.

Yes, some shelters are available for rent. The Bois de la Côte Shelter can be rented, though its exterior area remains available to the public when not rented. The Cabane des Bûcherons in Cossonay is a small, rentable shelter designed for local gatherings or picnics, available for CHF 20 with an additional deposit.

The Cabane du Cunay, located in the Vallée de Joux, is a popular stop for hikers on the Jura ridge trails. It's typically guarded on Saturdays from midday to Sunday afternoon. Reservations are recommended, especially for groups of six or more, and a non-refundable deposit is required. Access by car is possible up to 15 minutes from the hut from June 1st to November 30th.

Facilities vary by hut. For instance, the Bois de la Côte Shelter includes a stove, two small fridges, and a fireplace. The Senarclens Shelter is known for being well-maintained and welcoming. Some, like the Chalet des Pralets, offer dormitories and heating, with basic provisions when guarded.

The huts are enjoyable throughout the year, depending on your activity. Spring, around April, is particularly beautiful at places like the Refuge de la Créttaz (Dizy) when white anemones cover the woods. Summer is ideal for hiking and enjoying local dishes at guarded huts like Chalet des Pralets. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing near certain refuges.

Many huts, especially those not privately rented, operate on a first-come, first-served basis for their exterior areas. Always check local commune websites for rental information if you plan a private event. For hygiene, a sleeping bag liner (silk or cotton) is mandatory at some guarded huts like Chalet des Pralets. Always respect the environment and avoid using generators or sound-broadcasting devices.

The Refuge de la Buennaz near Pampigny is appreciated for its simple, harmonious architecture that blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest. It offers a charming and tranquil spot for visitors.

Information for renting huts like the Bois de la Côte Shelter can often be found on the respective commune's website, such as echandens.ch/refuge/. For the Refuge de la Créttaz (Dizy), rental details are available on dizy.ch/informations-pratiques-fr25.html.