Easy
About
Cabane d'Archail sits at 1,667m in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, a small base for exploring the limestone plateaus and peaks around the Chaîne de la Valouise. Access is from the village of Archail, roughly 45 minutes on foot via a marked trail through beech forest and alpine pasture. The final approach gains 400m elevation over steep terrain. Most hikers approach this cabin as part of longer traverses in the southern Écrins massif or as a staging point for ascents in the region.
The cabin is a basic mountain shelter with 6 beds arranged in dormitory style. There is no staffed guardian; it operates as a refuge libre (unstaffed hut). You must bring all food, fuel, and water. There is a wood stove for heat. The cabin is typically open June through September, though winter access is possible for experienced parties with proper equipment and navigation skills.
Book your visit well ahead if you plan to arrive in July or August. Contact the local commune of Archail or check with the FFCAM for current access conditions and any updates to the cabin's status. Verify water availability before you go; the nearest reliable source may require a detour. Leave the cabin in good condition—pack out all waste.
The cabin is a basic mountain shelter with 6 beds arranged in dormitory style. There is no staffed guardian; it operates as a refuge libre (unstaffed hut). You must bring all food, fuel, and water. There is a wood stove for heat. The cabin is typically open June through September, though winter access is possible for experienced parties with proper equipment and navigation skills.
Book your visit well ahead if you plan to arrive in July or August. Contact the local commune of Archail or check with the FFCAM for current access conditions and any updates to the cabin's status. Verify water availability before you go; the nearest reliable source may require a detour. Leave the cabin in good condition—pack out all waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for summer; this 6-bed hut fills quickly during July and August.
Cabane d'Archail is typically staffed June through September, but confirm directly as small huts have variable seasons.
Start from the village of Archail and follow the marked trail for 45 minutes through beech forest and alpine pasture; the final 400m gain is steep.
It's a simple mountain hut with 6 beds; expect basic dormitory sleeping and no shower, so bring a headlamp and be prepared for alpine conditions.
The steep final approach and remote location make it better suited to experienced hikers; it's ideal for mountaineering-focused parties planning longer traverses.
Location
44.1054, 6.3583
Plan your visit
Get directionsHutLists Score
2.7
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Total
- 6
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.