Refuge du Chambeyron

Refuge du Chambeyron sits at 2626m in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, on the high plateau east of Guillestre. Most hikers reach it from the Lac de Sainte-Anne trailhead (90 minutes drive south of Briançon). The walk from the lake takes 2.5 to 3 hours and climbs 600m through open alpine terrain. You can also approach from the Vallée de l'Ubaye to the east, a longer but less crowded route. The hut serves as a base for exploring the Parc National des Écrins and the peaks around Mont Chambeyron (3412m).
The refuge holds 69 beds across shared dormitories. Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; packed lunches are available. The kitchen serves straightforward mountain food—expect filling soups, pasta, and meat dishes. There are no showers, so plan to wash in cold water or skip it. There's no WiFi. The hut opens mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow melt and weather. Phone ahead to confirm opening dates in early summer.
Book directly by phone as soon as your travel dates are firm. July and August weekends fill fast—aim to call 6 to 8 weeks ahead. Weekdays are easier, especially in June and September. Contact the FFCAM caretaker directly rather than attempting online booking. Bring cash or check whether they accept card payments when you call.