Bergerie des Planes
3.4About
Bergerie des Planes sits at 1704m in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, in the southern reaches of Parc National des Écrins. The hut serves as a base for approaches to peaks around the Durrance valley and routes into the high plateaus. Most hikers reach it from the valley floor in 3–4 hours on foot; ask locally for current trail conditions, as access routes can be poorly marked. This is genuine backcountry terrain, not a destination with a manicured path.
The building is a small working bergerie (shepherd's shelter) converted for hiker use, with a single bed. Facilities are basic: no hot water, no electricity, no full meals service. You'll need to carry water and food. The hut opens June through September, depending on snow melt and shepherd presence. This is not a staffed refuge with a guardian—it operates on an honor system. Check with local FFCAM sections in Gap or Digne-les-Bains for current access status and any seasonal closures.
Contact the Parc National des Écrins or a local hiking club before traveling. Capacity is extremely limited, so this works only for self-sufficient parties comfortable with minimal shelter. Bring your own sleeping bag, stove, and all provisions.
The building is a small working bergerie (shepherd's shelter) converted for hiker use, with a single bed. Facilities are basic: no hot water, no electricity, no full meals service. You'll need to carry water and food. The hut opens June through September, depending on snow melt and shepherd presence. This is not a staffed refuge with a guardian—it operates on an honor system. Check with local FFCAM sections in Gap or Digne-les-Bains for current access status and any seasonal closures.
Contact the Parc National des Écrins or a local hiking club before traveling. Capacity is extremely limited, so this works only for self-sufficient parties comfortable with minimal shelter. Bring your own sleeping bag, stove, and all provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the guardian directly well ahead of your visit—this is a small, working bergerie with only 1 bed, so availability is extremely limited and advance notice is essential.
The hut operates seasonally; confirm current opening dates and guardian presence by contacting locally, as staffing varies with pastoral use and mountain conditions.
The hut is 3–4 hours on foot from the valley floor; trails are poorly marked, so ask locally for current conditions and directions before you go.
As a working bergerie, expect basic mountain shelter with minimal facilities; bring your own food and be prepared for rustic conditions.
No—this is backcountry terrain with unmarked, poorly maintained trails and only primitive accommodation; it's for experienced hikers and mountaineers only.
Location
44.3302, 6.2835
Plan your visit
Get directionsHutLists Score
3.4
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Total
- 1
Facilities
Meals served
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.