We had originally planned to stay at the Col de Balme refuge on the first night, but while taking a break at Refuge Les Grands we were convinced by the very nice guardian to stay here instead. We're glad we opted for Les Grands as it was our favorite refuge on the TMB. The refuge is more rustic and no meals are served, although the guardian made soup, bread, and a large rice dish for us and the other two visitors from Holland and we were able to get a hot shower outside. From the refuge both the Trient glacier and Glacier des Grands were in view.