Experience Vallouise with groupement campeurs universitaires

A trail that reveals all the beauty of the plain of Vallouise and Pelvoux! The route starts outside the Camping Huttopia de Vallouise. Follow signs for the village of Vallouise.  Keep en eye out for the bridge on the right which takes you across the Gyr. After the bridge, take the road on the right.  Head towards the road on the left and go along the edge of the cemetery.  Carry on along the left-hand track. At the end of this track, take the track on the right that runs along the top end of La Casse. Then, go along a single track across the hillside, towards the top of La Champarie. Go along the side of a canal. At Le Grand Parcher, fork right and go through the hamlet to reach the D994E.  At the stop sign, turn left and then fork right to cross the bridge spanning the Gyronde. After the bridge, head right onto a path that leads to the D4. When you come to the D4, cross it and continue along the path opposite which leads to the Onde. When you come to the Onde, turn right and then cross the bridge over the river. This brings you back to your starting point.

An ascent through pine woods, a descent through an oak wood and a short, hidden stretch to reach Puy Aillaud. When you come to the the Vallouise bridge ("Pont de Vallouise"), take the track leading up the left-hand bank of the Gyr leading towards Pelvoux.   Cross the Gyr over a wide footbridge and after a short distance, on a hairpin in the track, take a path running below a stable and soon after this take the path on the right to Puy Aillaud.  After the Pas d'Aval, a short narrow stretch through boulders, follow the yellow or white painted posts until you reach the road. Turn left onto the road to pass below the village of Puy Aillaud and the take the track towards the chapel of Saint-Jean.  Turn left back onto the road for a hundred metres or so, leaving the walking trail that leads away straight ahead. After the hairpin, you plunge onto a steep path edged with deciduous trees running straight down the slope. The path runs through a forest of oak and pine trees, and you continue the descent until you reach Vallouise. The descent can be slippery in places.

A pleasant circuit running primarily through forest and along the river bank Waysigning: one green dot and one white dot Go past the church in Vallouise and carry on through the old village, along its main road.  Continue along the road which rises up to a new district and joins the road to Le Villard.  Take the track leading off to the right just after the Saint Joseph oratory. Further up, cross the Puy Aillaud road and continue straight ahead. Then drop down, following a stream to Le Villard.  At the bottom end of the village, take the road for Vallouise and then a track on the right leading down to the Pont des Fontaines. Cross the bridge and then turn right and climb up the track along the left-hand bank of the Onde until you come to the Pont de Places.  To go to the slate quarry ("Les Ardoisières"), carry straight on and after a short distance take the path on the left running up to the disused slate quarry. From here, retrace your steps back to the Pont des Places, and turn right onto a path leading towards Narreyroux. Further up, head towards the Pont des Fontaines and then towards the Cascade de la Pissette waterfall.  At the foot of the waterfall, take the track on the right and then cross the bridge to follow the left-hand bank of the Onde leading back to Vallouise. 

Roaming between Vallouise and Durance for three days, hikers are gently drawn into the history of this mountain territory, at the turn of every path discovering the iconic landscapes and peaks of Les Écrins.The starting point of the trek, Vallouise, is a small tourist town featuring traditional architecture. Here, you can visit the Park Centre (“Maison du Parc”), explore the gardens and alleyways and make your final purchases before setting off on your tour.Following a forest track, the first stage takes you to Puy-Saint-Vincent, a mountain village and ski resort. Then, passing through a number of hamlets of this community, you come to the Col de la Pousterle and its vast grassy stretches surrounded by larches. Here, you gain a remarkable panoramic view over Pelvoux and the Glacier Blanc. As you head down towards the Durance, the forest ambience that predominates for most of the descent gives way to more urban surroundings: L’Argentière la Bessée, a small town with a rich industrial past, has not only preserved its economic and social dynamism but also offers an attractive living environment and lifestyle!The second stage leads to the charming mountain pasture hamlet of Bouchier. After following the Gyronde mountain stream and passing through the village of Les Vigneaux, you climb uphill towards this hamlet enjoying superb views over the Queyras valley and the Briançon area. This slope faces due south and it can be very hot here despite the forest cover.During your overnight stay in Bouchier, make the most of the pure skies and the absence of light pollution to gaze at the stars, either directly or from the astronomical observatory established there, if it is open.The final stage takes you back to Vallouise. The balcony pathway above the Gyronde hugs the Montbrison massif and its famous ridge formations ("Dentelles", meaning lace in French). After Les Vigneaux, the view opens up onto the glacial valleys of Ailefroide and the Glacier Blanc, and also onto your first-stage route, Puy-Saint-Vincent and the Col de la Pousterle.

A refreshing and varied trail, following the Gyr on the outward stretch and along a balcony path overlooking this mountain stream on the return stretch.  The route starts outside the Camping Huttopia de Vallouise. Take the track leading up the left-hand bank of the Gyr towards Pelvoux.   At the bridge, the Pont de Vallouise, continue right and cross the Gyr and then go left as you exit the bridge.  Cross a wide footbridge and, on the hairpin bend in the track, take a path running below a stable and shortly after this take the path on the left for Vallouise. On the road above the church, you come back to your starting point. 

A fascinating excursion through the Vallouise plain, where the river flows through orchards and an old village.  Opposite the Vallouise Park Centre ("Maison du Parc"), take a narrow made-up path on the left. At the cross-country ski centre ("Foyer de ski de fond"), carry straight on. The path runs alongside the Onde.  Turn right to cross the Onde and then, as you exit the bridge, fork left and follow the river.  At the bridge, turn left to reach the Cascade de la Pissette waterfall, and then turn back on yourself and follow your outward route in reverse.  After the bridge, turn right and take the path on the left heading towards the centre of Vallouise.. When you come to the D504, turn left towards the village centre.  Turn left again to reach the church of Vallouise. On the church square, take the Rue du Centre and turn right before the bridge. The path then runs along the banks of the Gyr and past the Huttopia campsite. After the bridge, turn left to skirt around the Park Centre ("Maison du Park") and back to the car park. 

A trail to discover the secret charm of the hamlets of the Pays des Écrins.  Waysigning: one green dot and once white dot From the Park Centre ("Maison du Parc"), follow the road to Puy Saint-Vincent. Take the path on the left towards Les Parchers and continue heading in this direction. The track runs above the Gyronde and then comes to a bridge below the hamlet of Le Grand Parcher. Cross this bridge and then cross the D994E (take care) and follow the narrow road leading up to this hamlet.  A short distance beyond the chapel, take a path on the left to Petit Parcher. Join the road right and follow this for a short distance. Take the path for La Casse. Carry on up through La Casse and, at the top where the houses come to an end, take the path leading to the Rocher Pointu. Further on, continue straight ahead towards the Rif Paulin and Pelvoux-Le Sarret. Cross the Rif Paulin mountain stream over a sill and then continue along the canal.  Head down towards Pelvoux - Le Poët. At the lower end of the hamlet, cross the mountain stream La Juliane via a narrow road and then drop down to the D994E.  Cross the D994E (take care) to take the track opposite which leads to the Gyr mountain stream. Stay on the left-hand bank and follow the track leading to Vallouise. Cross the Gyr to carry on along its right-hand bank, passing close to the campsite, to return to the Park Centre.

Suitable for children aged three years old and over, this pump track is ideal for family outings. The first area is designed for children aged 3 years and over, with a play area circled by a very easy short loop with humps and wooden banked bends. The second area, called « Planète VTT » is open to those aged 6 years and over. It has numerous wooden and dirt mountain biking modules, along a longer loop.

Explore traditional villages to discover their architectural, mountain-dwelling and cultural heritage The tour starts from the car park in Puy Aillaud (next to the containers). Go down the road and take the first road on the right, towards the restaurant “Les Rhododendrons”. Just before the two restaurants, climb up the steps on the right and take the grass path opposite to reach the road. Go down to the left, to the hike post at the start of the first path, on the left. Carry on down the road, go between the two restaurants and then turn right, skirting around Les Rhododendrons. Carry on until you come to the church water fountain. Go down the steps on the right which lead to a wash house. Then go left down the road, then turn left and carry on until you come to the sheepfold. Come back to the road and go right to pass the house with the sundial. Then head back to the car park. Get back into the car and head towards Le Villard. Stop at the chapel of Saint-Jean, on the left-hand side of the road, and then carry on along the road towards Le Villard. Park just outside the hamlet of Le Villard. Head up to the right, towards the exhibition, and stop in front of the chapel. Head up to the right until you come to the exhibition centre and then go back down to the church water fountain. Next, turn right and then left to reach the wash house. Continue left to return to the car park.

The local inhabitants are called the "Traversouirres” because their houses are built in a series of small hamlets perched on the slope and the streets on the side of the "puy” (mountain). Here people say you "traverse" (“cross”) to go from one hamlet to the next.The trail begins on the Puy-Saint-Vincent church forecourt. With your back to the church, follow the road on the right as far as the intersection.Then turn right and follow the road to the next crossroads.Turn right into the road leading to the starting point in front of the church.

Located in the heart of the forest at an altitude of 1560 meters, this former forest cabin, owned by the ONF, is a true ode to nature and tranquility. Ideal for recharging your batteries and enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. Stroll, hike or just relax, you're spoilt for choice. Practical info The Sachas hut is open from April 20 to October 31. Rate: €70/night + tourist tax per adult per night (calculated according to number of people). Capacity: 5 people maximum. Facilities : Living room equipped with wood-burning stove, gas stove, fridge, sink, table and benches and all necessary crockery. Dormitory upstairs. Bathroom and WC with outside access.

Chabournéou unveils a world of mountains and glaciers. This former refuge with its authentic atmosphere provides a fine alternative on the Vieux Chaillol Tour or GR54 footpath. Meals available all day. No picnic room. An authentic refuge in an Alpine setting at the foot of the north face of the Sirac. Easy to access along a path with the evocative name of "the minister's path", the refuge welcomes visitors for the skiing season in spring and for climbing and hiking during the summer. Access in 2 hrs 30 min from the Gioberney car park; 450-metre incline.

Set at the bottom of the Vénéon valley, it offers panoramic views of the Pilatte glacier and the most prestigious peaks in the Écrins. TEMPORARILY CLOSED The Temple Ecrins refuge was completely renovated in 2018. It offers 48 beds, made up of modules for 1 to 3 people and equipped with comforters. Bright and welcoming, the refuge is equipped with showers. A wood-burning stove allows you to spend pleasant evenings by the fire, while enjoying the generous home-cooked meals offered by the janitor. The large window in the dining room offers a breathtaking view of the typical Oisans alpine landscape. HIKING IN THE HEART OF THE ECRINS NATIONAL PARK The Écrins massif is an exceptional area, open to all, with a rare natural, cultural and landscape heritage. and landscapes. To protect these treasures, the heart of the park is marked with blue-white-red painted flags, where regulations must be respected. Please take note of them when preparing your hike to preserve this collective asset on the ecrins-parcnational.fr website.

Built at the sources of the White Drac, near the disused Champoléon cabin, this refuge with its stone roof offers tasty regional food at lunchtime and copious Alpine meals in the evening. The refuge is easy to access for families: 1 hr 30 mins from the Auberts car park (elevation: 350 m). Large number of hiking trails leaving from the refuge.

Nestled at the foot of the west face of the Sirac, this refuge was built in 2001 from wood and stone. Bright, spacious dormitories with duvets. Hot water showers and indoor toilets. From the refuge, there is a wide range of climbs and hikes: Sirac, Col and Pic de Vallonpierre, Col des Chevrettes, GR 54 footpath, Chabournéou refuge, Tour du Vieux Chaillol. Accessible in 2 hrs 30 mins from Gioberney car park, elevation 700 metres.

The Clot - Xavier-Blanc refuge, with 100 years rich in history, welcomes you in the shade of colossal trees for a relaxing break. Whether you are on the GR 54 footpath or out for a day's hike, you are sure to be charmed by this refuge, lulled by the murmur of the nearby Séveraisse mountain stream. Access in 15 minutes from Le Rif du Sap.

On the outskirts of La Vachette, in the direction of Névache, discover Flower Camping Le Montana ***: a family campsite on a human scale, equipped with cottages, tents, pods, geodesic domes and a heated swimming pool. The whole team of Flower Camping Le Montana*** welcomes you. Discover our 3* family campsite on a human scale with 90 pitches including 20 rentals on about 2 hectares open from the end of April to the end of September. The campsite has a heated outdoor pool/ aquatic playground, canalplay for the little ones, mobile homes, chalets and tents with wood stove, pods and geodesic domes. Enjoy the many activities offered by our beautiful region and relax! We wish you a very good vacation among us. On site: - The campsite’s grocery store: you will find emergency supplies, local and regional products. - Bread deposit: Every morning we offer baguettes and pastries by reservation. - Wifi: free near the reception but paid from your location you have 10 minutes free then you can choose a package (7-day rate example 21€, (2023 rate )). - Le Snack: The snack bar of Montana offers you a full breakfast to savor on the terrace by the pool! In July and August, we offer you from the waffle snack and every evening our delicious takeaway pizzas, burgers, fries. - A snack bar where you can enjoy a hot or cold drink on our terrace by the pool. Young and old alike will also enjoy our ice creams! - The laundry: Washing and drying tokens as well as laundry are for sale at the reception - Games: board game loans at the grocery store in July and August The campsite also has a children’s playground, ping-pong table, swing, inflatable castle and petanque. - Baby equipment: We offer cots as well as high chairs.

Adèle Planchard bequeathed her fortune to build the refuge along the Grande Ruine ascent route. Despite its "high mountain" setting, the long walk to the top is simple and superb, accessible to almost any hiker! The refuge is the second highest perched in the Ecrins massif. Located in the Massif des Ecrins, Groupe de la Grande Ruine in the Briançonnais, this refuge is a lookout point over the Barre des Ecrins. When you arrive, you'll discover the world of high mountains. From the refuge, you'll have a beautiful view of the succession of Pic de Neige Cordier peaks, all the way to La Roche Méane at 3765 m (Pointe Breevort). Access from the foot of the Col (5h) on a signposted path. No technical equipment required in summer. In spring, the refuge is also kept for the ski touring season, as the first stage of the Tour de la Meije, or for the ascent of the Grande Ruine!

Sylvie and Sebastian welcome you to their chalet refuge of Chamoissiere; old sheepfold fully restored with ecological and traditional materials ; located in the heart of the Alpine of Villar d'Arene, in a beautiful setting, away from the hustle and bustle. Located on the Alpe plan at 2106m, at the foot of the glaciers and at the gateway to the Ecrins National Park, this superb chalet-refuge will open its doors to you for a stay in the heart of nature; a beautiful escape in the heart of the mountains, to recharge your batteries and recharge your batteries as a family. Clean sheets required. This comfortable, small-capacity refuge welcomes you for a night or more, for a sporting or contemplative stay (or both) in a magnificent, peaceful setting, far from the wifi, stress and hassle of life down below! Accommodation in small rooms. The refuge has room for 20 people, a bathroom with 2 washbasins and 2 hot showers, and a large living/dining room with wood-burning stove. 220V electricity. Outdoor solar shower. Allow approx. 1h30 to 2h for the ascent along the path from Arsine (Villar d'Arène) and 1h30 along the Crevasses path from Col du Lautaret (halfway along this path, there is a somewhat vertiginous passage lasting 50m, but with a handrail on the path along the wall). A number of easy hikes can be discovered from the refuge, including - Sources de la Romanche - Lac de l'Etoile - Lac d'Arsine Refuge marked "Refuges ALPES".

Located in the heart of the alpine pastures, the Alpe refuge welcomes young and old alike, for a day hike, a first night in a refuge, a stopover on the GR54 or on the way to another refuge. For mountaineering and ski touring: it's THE spot par excellence! With a superb view of the summit of Les Agneaux, access is by a very easy family hike; despite a few steep sections, it takes you back to the source of the Romanche and allows you to enjoy a very pleasant break on the banks of this pretty torrent. "A small stream, a few boulders, grassy slopes and the whole space to run and laugh at life. Not far away, the chickens peck at grass and insects, and a few yards away, from his pen, the pack donkey observes the scene with his gentle eyes, here it's a bit of Paradise", the janitors tell us. Children can run, climb, roll in the grass... Freedom is theirs! It's also the starting point for mountain hikes to various summits (Agneaux, Neige Cordier, Chamoissière, la Pyramide...). From the refuge: Main hikes : - Arsine glacier lake (2400m - 2h) - Romanche springs (2150m - 1h) - a small summit: la bosse de Chamoissière - Stage on the Tour de l'Oisans (GR54) Mountaineering : - Les Agneaux (3646m - AD) - Pointe de Chamoissière (3215m) - Pic de Neige Cordier (3613m) Ski touring : - Stage on the Tour de la Meije and the Tour des Ecrins - North corridor of Roche Faurio - La Grande Ruine - Col des Chamois, Col du Fauteuil, Col des Agneaux / les Agneaux... There's plenty to choose from! NB: Adapted tourism: The refuge, via the Crevasses trail, is accessible by joëlette with assistance. (Can be borrowed from the La Grave tourist office, on reservation and against deposit: 04 76 79 90 05).

Multi-storey houses - typical of the architecture in the valley in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries - stand on the old village street. The ground floor was reserved for animals, the first floor for habitation and the upper floors for grain storage. People moved from one floor to another by means of balconies interconnected by a staircase. Many of these balconies are arcaded with stone columns. This type of arcaded balcony is found throughout the valley.

In summer, bats take up residence in the church roof. The species living here is the lesser horseshoe bat, which has been in serious decline over recent decades. Every year, the mothers return after hibernating in caves and each one gives birth to one bat pup. Bats are insectivore mammals threatened by the insecticides used on farmland and on wooden structures and the loss of their hunting habitats and roosts, among other things. They are all protected.

The church of Saint-Étienne dates from the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Inside is an altarpiece and a tabernacle in gilded wood dating from the eighteenth century, together with come mural paintings. Not far from the church stands the late sixteenth-century Chapel of the Penitents with a nineteenth-century painted facade.

Listed and protected as an historic monument since 22 October 1913, the church dedicated to Saint Stephen is one of the most beautiful religious edifices in Hautes-Alpes. It is typical of the Romanesque churches in the Briançon region built in the second half of the 15th century, although its exact construction date is still uncertain.

But what's the angler angling for? The brown trout of course! This is the mountain fish par excellence, with a streamlined body to withstand the current more efficiently and light brown skin speckled with black and red. It lives in cold, oxygen-rich waters. 

The old trees in the orchard are home to the northern wryneck. It has a loud song, rather like that of the green woodpecker, only slower. This bird owes its name to the extreme way it extends and twists its neck when it feels threatened. Its French name torcol fourmilier is a reference to the fact that it feeds on ants (fourmils in French). Difficult to spot because its plumage merges into the colour of the tree trunks, it gives its presence away by its song when it returns from its migration.  

The route leads down a warm slope, where the downy oak reigns supreme. It is a small oak tree with a twisted growth habit and with marescent leaves, that is to say, they dry out in the autumn but remain on the tree all winter. It is called "downy" because the young branches, buds and sometimes the undersides of its leaves are covered in a fine down. It is a tree that grows happily on the warm dry slopes.

The path crosses some limestone screes. It is a dry environment. The narrow-leaved lavender grows in sunny areas, a reminder that the Pays de Écrins is in the Southern Alps after all! Not to be confused with the lavandin, this plant naturally grows on rocky slopes in the mountains of the Midi.

Even in winter, the ash can be recognised from its large black leaf buds. The leaves are compound. A pioneer species that grows easily, the ash has long been used by man for everyday needs: its foliage was used to feed cattle and its hard, flexible wood was used to make a variety of objects such as tool handles. Its French name frêne often appears in local place names too: Freissinières (frêne noir - black ash), Le Freney etc. Evidence of its historical importance to human communities.. 

Some strange creatures are moving jerkily over the surface of the water: Gerrises, insects related to bedbugs. Like a true insect, they have six legs and they «skate» across the water using their intermediate and hind legs which are covered in hairs to make them water-resistant. They are carnivorous and anything on the water surface, dead or alive, is good to eat! They catch their prey with the forelegs, sucking up the juices with their strong proboscis!

The talents of the chef and his assistant bring about the alliance of regional specialities ('tourtons', 'ravioles', 'donkey's ears'...) and sophisticated recipes (lamb tapenade, chicken with crawfish, Rossini fillet steak, etc.).

The Petit Cerf team welcomes you to the bar-restaurant for a drink, aperitif, lunch, snack or dinner. Have a snack with your children (or without) after playing outside. In the cosy rooms, you can nibble on the coffee tables in the lounge or choose to eat at our large tables by the fireplace. The Le Petit Cerf's teamwill be on hand to listen to your every wish. What's for dinner? What shall we drink? Let's keep it simple and good... and very good indeed! A simple menu with quality, local, freshly-cooked products. Platters of cold meats and cheese, meals at all hours. Back a little late from skiing or biking? Feeling hungry? Don't worry, we'll be happy to prepare a simple dish for you. Aperonomy: Spritzs, good beers, a selected wine list and, of course, a whole range of softs for an aperitif by the fire or on the terrace, depending on the season.

Situated at an altitude of 2,280 metres, Chalet de Rocherousse welcomes you to an exceptional setting. Get together with friends or family on the terrace or indoors. Take a gastronomic break and enjoy local specialities, an ice cream or a well-deserved refreshment. And for a unique experience, book a meal around our fireplaces: open-air barbecues to share in a warm atmosphere.

Come for lunch or dinner in the exceptionnal setting of this inn ! The Arpelin is located at an altitude of 1745m, on the Great Alps road and at the foot of the mythical Col de l'Izoard. Discover the inn's great speciality: fire-cooked lamb! You can also enjoy tourtons, blueberry tarts and other regional and mountain delicacies. Since the end of 2024, the inn is run by its two new managers, Candice and Thibaut Lerich Meignien, who have introduced a few new features the return of raclette and a games library accessible from the age of 3, adapted to all ages and player profiles. An arcade machine has also been installed for even more fun. The must-try fire-cooked lamb is almost always available booked in advance, depending on arrivals. And that's not all: more surprises are coming very soon!

Traditional cuisine. The meal of the day is carefully cooked with local ingredients : lamb meat, wild foraging soups, gratins and savoury pies, the famous blueberry pie, crumbles... all of this in a welcoming and moutainy setting ! The Vialaou team welcomes you in the inn located just in front of the Saint Marcellin church in Ville-Haute, Névache ! 20-people capacity inside, 30-people capacity outside on the terrace Groups up to 20 people : please book in advance ! The bar is open all-day, you can also have snacks & sweet food anytime of the day

Restaurant of typical high mountain pasture, located in Fontcouverte, a hamlet +1860m. Formerly a place where cheese was made, the Fruitière now operates as a restaurant, and is an unmissable stop in the higher Clarée valley. Anything from snacks to real meals, you will find housecooked, local food and moutain specialties. Open everyday in wintertime, summertime and All Saints' Day holidays. Booking in advance is recommanded for lunches, and necessary for dinners (dinners only in summertime). Access in wintertime is only on foot/snowshoe, or ski. 1h30 from Névache Ville-Haute. During the summer, the road is accessible either by car, bike or on foot. Please note that credit/debit cards are not accepted : cash or cheques only.

A large number of hikes leave from the refuge: Cascade de la Pisse (20 mins), Col de la Vénasque (3h), Col de Côte Longue (4h), the summit of Le Vieux Chaillol (3163 m), but also the unspoilt valleys of the Muande and Mal Cros! A little paradise only a 1 hr 30 min walk away! Elevation 345 metres.

Bistrot, restaurant, tearoom on the banks of the Clarée: This bistrot de Pays lives up to its name. A warm welcome all year round, and family-style, gourmet, authentic cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. All homemade with local produce.

It's brand new and it's in Plampinet! Come and have a good time in our open kitchen, around the fireplace, and enjoy our home cooking, charcuterie and home-cured meats from "Le Petit Randonneur" de Plampinet...

Chef Mathieu Jaulin's cuisine is family-style, friendly and generous. Daily specials and à la carte dishes, in a warm and welcoming setting. Reservations recommended, open by reservation only in the evening.

13/12/2019 > 22/03/2020 19/12/2020 > 21/03/2021 Looking to rent a wooden chalet in the Hautes-Alpes, in the heart of the Pays des Ecrins, for ski holidays with family or friends? Discover the chalets in Vallouise! 15/05/2020 > 27/09/2020 Camp at 1200m with 360° views of the mountains, in the heart of the traditional village of Vallouise. Enjoy a holiday escape in the Ecrins national park!

In 1891, 4 tonnes of wood were brought by train to L'Argentière before being transported by car, then on donkeys up to the old Puiseux shelter. It was then pulled up by men using sleds to the intended spot. This mountain refuge was used for 70 years before becoming a storeroom for the wardens and then lodgings for their helpers in 1962. The summer before, 145 tonnes of materials were this time heliported, to enable the construction of the Pelvoux mountain refuge. It was inaugurated on the 15th July 1962 in the presence of Maureice Herzog, high commissioner for Youth and Sports at the time.

Located in the heart of the forest at an altitude of 1560 meters, this former forest cabin, owned by the ONF, is a true ode to nature and tranquility. Ideal for recharging your batteries and enjoying the great outdoors with family and friends. Stroll, hike or just relax, you're spoilt for choice. Practical info The Sachas hut is open from April 20 to October 31. Rate: €70/night + tourist tax per adult per night (calculated according to number of people). Capacity: 5 people maximum. Facilities : Living room equipped with wood-burning stove, gas stove, fridge, sink, table and benches and all necessary crockery. Dormitory upstairs. Bathroom and WC with outside access.

Perched on a rock, Les Bans mountain refuge offers a clear view of the Onde valley on one side and the cirque of high summits that surround the valley to the other side. It was made of dressed stones roughly fifty years ago and can sleep 22 people. It is very animated during the day as it welcomes walkers who have come to taste local specialities, but it regains its calm in the evening and offers a valuable lookout for observing ibex and chamois. You are sure to have an unforgettable evening in the end of the world atmosphere of this refuge thanks to the warm welcome from the wardens and the soup made in the solar oven.

The refuge is an ancient witness to the pioneering days of mountaineering in Vallouise in the second half of the 19th century... At that time it was situated at the foot of the glacier. It was built in 1886 to provide shelter under the rock for the first mountaineers. With its small dimensions, and materials of stone and wood, it represents a historical reference. Its remains shelter an exhibition retracing its history.

Chabournéou unveils a world of mountains and glaciers. This former refuge with its authentic atmosphere provides a fine alternative on the Vieux Chaillol Tour or GR54 footpath. Meals available all day. No picnic room. An authentic refuge in an Alpine setting at the foot of the north face of the Sirac. Easy to access along a path with the evocative name of "the minister's path", the refuge welcomes visitors for the skiing season in spring and for climbing and hiking during the summer. Access in 2 hrs 30 min from the Gioberney car park; 450-metre incline.

Set at the bottom of the Vénéon valley, it offers panoramic views of the Pilatte glacier and the most prestigious peaks in the Écrins. TEMPORARILY CLOSED The Temple Ecrins refuge was completely renovated in 2018. It offers 48 beds, made up of modules for 1 to 3 people and equipped with comforters. Bright and welcoming, the refuge is equipped with showers. A wood-burning stove allows you to spend pleasant evenings by the fire, while enjoying the generous home-cooked meals offered by the janitor. The large window in the dining room offers a breathtaking view of the typical Oisans alpine landscape. HIKING IN THE HEART OF THE ECRINS NATIONAL PARK The Écrins massif is an exceptional area, open to all, with a rare natural, cultural and landscape heritage. and landscapes. To protect these treasures, the heart of the park is marked with blue-white-red painted flags, where regulations must be respected. Please take note of them when preparing your hike to preserve this collective asset on the ecrins-parcnational.fr website.

Guarded and accessible only via high mountain passes The refuge was built in the former alpine hamlet of Plat du Carlez, a quiet, verdant meadow at the crossroads of the Vénéon valley and the Chardon valley. It's an ideal spot from which to admire the Ailefroide and the Rouies, emblematic peaks of the Ecrins. Whether you're passing through during the day to sample our freshly-made pasta and drink a homemade vitamin juice, or staying in one of our 8 to 2-person rooms, the Carrelet refuge is ideal for a 100% nature break under the benevolent eye of the peaks. Families and mountaineers welcome!

The pastoral cabin at Champoléon was built by stockbreeders in 1921. It was in 1972 that the cabin was restored for the first time... Two years later, the French Alpine Club (CAF) took over its management in order to insure shelter for the increasing number of hikers of the GR54. Having become too cramped, the refuge was rebuilt in 1979 on the ruins of the hamlet and became the Chaumette Meadow. The decorative stones were cut on site at  Champoléon. The imposing Lauzes stones used to cover the roof underline the effort made to integrate with the landscape. Today flocks of sheep are brought up to the mountains at the end of June and are visited once a week.

Built at the sources of the White Drac, near the disused Champoléon cabin, this refuge with its stone roof offers tasty regional food at lunchtime and copious Alpine meals in the evening. The refuge is easy to access for families: 1 hr 30 mins from the Auberts car park (elevation: 350 m). Large number of hiking trails leaving from the refuge.