Cabin D'Essertze

Cabane d'Essertze sits at 2,277m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, accessible from the Vallée de l'Isère. Most people approach from Allevard via the Praz de la Saule trail, a 4-hour hike gaining 1,100m elevation. The cabin works as a base for ridge traverses and peaks across the range, including Mont Poulit and the Chaîne de Belledonne crest itself. Summer conditions typically allow access from June through September, though snowfields can linger into early July on the approach.
The cabin holds 25 beds in mixed dormitories. Simple meals are served—expect basic alpine fare and bring appetite suppressants if you have strict dietary needs. Water comes from a spring nearby. The hut is FFCAM-affiliated and operates with a part-time guardian in season; winter closure is standard. No electricity or heating beyond a wood stove, so pack a sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C. Facilities are sparse: composting toilet, hand-wash station. Bring your own toiletries and headtorch.
Book directly by email or phone at least two weeks ahead, and earlier—four to six weeks—for July and August weekends. Expect the hut to fill completely on good-weather weekends in July and August. Single-night stays are possible but the guardian prefers multi-day bookings. Confirm opening dates before travel, as staffing can vary year to year. Payment is cash or bank transfer; there is no card facility on-site.