Écrins Hut

In a glacial high altitude, mineral environment, we welcome hikers and mountaineers who are passing by, or who want to stay overnight. Weather permitting, the refuge offers an exceptional and unforgettable view of the Dome and the Barre des Écrins.
The current refuge, which was built in the 60s, is a rustic building made of dressed stone. It has minimal comfort. In bad weather, the temperature inside falls rapidly, the wood stove in the dining room is used in the spring and in the event of bad weather. In April and May (sometimes even in June) we melt the snow on the stoves or the roof of the refuge and the precious water is used for cooking and cleaning. Towards mid-June, it is possible to get melt water from the water catchment area... Read more
The current refuge, which was built in the 60s, is a rustic building made of dressed stone. It has minimal comfort. In bad weather, the temperature inside falls rapidly, the wood stove in the dining room is used in the spring and in the event of bad weather. In April and May (sometimes even in June) we melt the snow on the stoves or the roof of the refuge and the precious water is used for cooking and cleaning. Towards mid-June, it is possible to get melt water from the water catchment area situated above the refuge. The water flows through a pipe on the rock face, and the water supply is therefore totally dependent on the temperature and weather conditions at a given moment. The refuge has four toilets and two sink areas with cold water...they are therefore closed when it freezes. As for drinking water, we can provide 1½-litre bottles.

The electricity supply is generated solely by solar panels. It is stored in batteries that ensure the minimum necessary supply for running the refuge (office, lighting, fridge, freezers and kitchen appliances). Irregular sunshine, means we are not able to charge your cameras, phones, etc.
Sleeping arrangements: the refuge is made up of 5 dormitories. They organised over two levels (partitions). The dormitories have fitted sheets, pillows and blankets. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag.

In the winter, when there is no warden, 40 places are still available. We leave a few blankets, but strongly advise bringing a good sleeping bag as there is no heating. There is no gas and very few kitchen appliances. A fee, set by the FFCAM is requested for using the refuge during this period. There is an urn in the first entrance hall where you can put the fee.

Rubbish:
As always, in the mountains, you are responsible for taking your rubbish back with you. Rubbish from the refuge is sorted and taken down to the valley by helicopter. Management of the refuge is organised in such a way as to limit the number of helicopter trips. Therefore, we request that visitors take away their own rubbish.

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