Gite des 3 Cols

Gîte des 3 Cols sits at 1477m in the foothills above the Verdon region. Access is via the village of Castellane, roughly 2.5 hours on foot from the roadhead near Pra-Loup. The hiking approach traverses open terrain with steady elevation gain through mixed forest and meadow. This is a working base for exploring the three col passes that give the gîte its name: Col des Lèques, Col de Valserme, and Col de la Cayolle. Each offers onward routes into higher Alpine terrain and connects to broader GR trail networks.
The gîte operates as a simple mountain refuge with 40 beds across shared dormitory rooms. Evening meals and breakfast are available, though self-catering is possible with advance notice. Water comes from a spring source. The refuge is managed by local hiking guides and supports year-round use, though conditions from November to March require winter experience and proper kit. Summer months (June to September) see regular foot traffic on the approach routes.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email. July and August fill quickly; reserve at least 6–8 weeks ahead for weekend slots. Off-season visits outside the main hiking window are quieter but confirm opening dates before traveling. Bring your own sleeping bag and towel. The gîte lies within easy reach of Parc National des Écrins territory and connects well to multi-day traverses across the southern Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.