Cabin du Plan de Gautier

Cabane du Plan de Gautier sits at 1,985m in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, near Barcelonnette in the Parc National des Écrins. Reach it from the Ubaye Valley via the Plan de Gautier, typically a 2–3 hour hike depending on your starting point and route. The cabin serves as a base for traversing the limestone ridges and peaks of this remote corner of the southern Alps, with good access to Mont Pelat (3,051m) and the surrounding alpine terrain. The approach is straightforward but exposed in places; fit hill walkers manage it without difficulty.

The hut is a small, basic mountain refuge offering dormitory beds and simple meals. Capacity is around 25 people. You'll find a kitchen, emergency shelter, and water nearby. FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) manages the hut and typically opens it seasonally from June to September. Conditions above 2,000m mean winter access is unpredictable. Bring a sleeping bag even in summer; the cabin offers minimal heating and is cold at night. Meals are communal or self-catering depending on guardian availability; check ahead.

Book directly through the FFCAM or contact the Barcelonnette section in advance. Summer weekends and July fill quickly—reserve 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. The hut attracts serious hikers and mountaineers rather than casual day-walkers, so expect a quieter, more technical crowd. Bring cash for payment.