11 remote mountain lodges to get away from it all

(CNN) – Mountain cabins hold a special place in the tradition of adventure and have provided a shelter for travelers since the dawn of exploration.

If you can climb up to them, they provide an exciting and wild escape from civilization below – a place to marvel at starry night skies and then wake up to breathtaking panoramas.

Its isolation offers added tranquility at a time when avoiding crowds is the preferred option.

These are some of the most impressive to inspire your next expedition when the time is right to conquer mountains again.

Desolation Peak Lookout, Washington State (1,860 m)

There are few better places to escape the world than a lonely home overlooking the beautiful North Cascade Mountains.

This rugged and spartan landscape inspired the writer of “On the Road” Jack Kerouac to reside here for 63 days during the summer of 1956, resulting in the short story “Alone on a Mountaintop” and the book “Desolation Angels”.

The windswept cabin in question is a historic fire pit lookout with larger-than-life panoramas. It is one of the best places to marvel at the twin peaks of Hozomeen Mountain, as well as a perfect place for existential quest.

It can be reached via the Desolation Peak Trail. Check the website of the National Park Service for detailed instructions.

Grands Mulets Cabin, France (3,051 m)

Located on the way to the Mont Blanc mountain range, the Grands Mulets refuge offers spectacular views of the Alps.

Situated at an altitude of 3,051 meters, the first version of the cabin was built in 1853 to serve mountaineers exploring the Alpine peaks.

Today it is one of the most popular mountain refuges in the country thanks to its strategic position and its wonderful surroundings. Standing atop the mighty Bossons Glacier in the middle of a snowy wonderland, it’s almost worth the climb just for being on Grands Mulets.

Visitors can reserve the shelter using the official Web site. It has 68 beds and is open from the end of March to the end of July.

Brandenburger Haus, Austria (3,277 m)

Situated in the heart of the largest glacier system in the eastern Alps, Brandenburger Haus is an almost surreal sight.

It is a small gray point devoured by the beautiful snowy landscapes. It was built in 1909 to serve the German Alpine Club.

Today it enjoys a spot right among the most impressive lodges in the Alps, offering a welcome stop on the way to the top of Dahmannspitze Mountain.

Visitors should know that it is in the league of mountain lodges for experts only, as the journey to reach it goes through complicated glacier routes. More details in the official website of the cabin.

Konkordia Refuge, Switzerland (2,850 m)

It is one of the most legendary alpine huts in the world. The Konkordia was built in 1877. Anyone who comes to this place will have to constantly remind themselves that they are not dreaming, such is the power of the panoramas on offer.

The mighty Konkordiaplatz glacier and towering mountain tops can be seen from this fantastic vantage point.

There is also a disturbing reminder of climate change. When the Konkordia hut was built, it was only 50 meters from the glacier. Today it is 200 meters away, as the natural wonder has melted over the years.

Anyone who wants to stay here must book in advance through the official Web site.

Monte Rosa Refuge, Switzerland (2,883 m)

Monte Rosa reflects the beauty of its magical surroundings with an aluminum roof. This may be one of the best designed and futuristic mountain lodges in the world.

It was opened in 2009 replacing an old stone clad shelter and has been a traveler favorite ever since due to its comfort, stylish appearance, great location, and easy ascent to your doorstep.

It is an impressive place to spend a night on the glaciers, contemplating the magnificent view of the mountain.

The official Web site of the cabin has more information.

Rifugio Re Alberto, Italy (2,621 m)

Rifugio Re Alberto is the kind of place that looks more like a fantastic video game location than real life.

But there is no end-of-level guardian to fight, just stunning and beautiful landscapes, including the Vajolet Towers, the most precious jewels in the crown of the Dolomites.

Waking up to the first rays of sun in the company of these jagged peaks is a bucket list experience that makes Re Alberto one of the most exceptional places on Earth.

The refuge is open only during the summer months and requires reservations. More information in the cabin website.

Luxmore Refuge, New Zealand (1,085 m)

With fantastic views over the Kepler Mountains and Lake Te Anau, the Luxmore Cabin is one of the highlights of Fiordland National Park and is a must see for anyone interested in nature tourism.

Its setup is quite simple: 54 bunks, water supply, heating oil, and some cooking facilities. Perfect for a digital detox.

A trip to Fiordland National Park also offers the chance to see Kepler Mire, who portrayed the mysterious Dead Marshes in the “Lord of the Rings” movie trilogy.

The New Zealand National Parks website has details about the visit to this cabin.

Rabothytta Cabin, Norway (1,200 m)

Modern architecture meets the arid landscapes of northern Norway in this incredible cabin perched on a glacier beyond.

Managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association, the striking and elegant building is a gateway to the Okstindan mountain range in Helgeland.

While far from the tourist-frequented fjords or the Lofoten Islands, Rabothytta offers total seclusion in an unexplored land, the best place to get away from it all.

Check the official Web site for more information.

Castle Mountain Refuge, Canada (2,390 m)

Some mountain huts are built to house large numbers of people drawn to the hills during peak season.

And then there is the Castle Mountain cabin.

Situated halfway to the top of the spectacular Castle Mountain in Canada’s Banff National Park, this small house for six people serves as a base for climbers and offers wonderful views of the Canadian Rockies.

Anyone lucky enough to find themselves here will find it minimally equipped with a propane stove and flashlight.

Because what else do you really need to enjoy the wonders of nature?

The Alpine Club of Canada website details the practicalities of getting to the cabin.

Lloyd MacKay Cabin, Canada (2,720 m)

The scenery on offer at the Lloyd MacKay Cottage is truly unforgettable.

Nestled amid the mightiest peaks on the continent, this modest retreat is sure to be the highlight of any trip to the heart of Jasper National Park in Canada.

With just six beds and humble but functional furniture inside, the Lloyd MacKay Cottage is a secluded, spartan place on the wish list.

Visit the Alpine Club of Canada website for more information.

Emilio Frey Refuge, Argentina (1,700 m)

Easy enough to reach in a day hike, the Emilio Frey Refuge is a treasure of Argentina’s magnificent Nahuel Huapi National Park.

It is home to one of the most impressive panoramas in all of South America, with a turquoise lagoon that reflects the sharp Patagonian peaks.

Overnight stays are possible as the cabin has capacity for 40 guests and offers everything a mountain traveler needs.

The Bariloche tourism website has the details.