Cabin du Moutonnier

Cabane du Moutonnier sits at 1937m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, east of Grenoble. The approach from Allevard-les-Bains takes 3–4 hours on foot via the Puy de l'Étuve. The hut serves as a base for traversing the Belledonne ridge and accessing peaks in the Parc National de la Vanoise to the south. Winter access is possible but requires avalanche awareness and a good understanding of mountain conditions.
The cabin is modest and designed for self-catering. Capacity is around 12–15 people in bunk beds. There is no guardian (gardien) on-site, so you bring your own food and water. The hut has basic shelter, stoves, and sleeping platforms. It opens year-round but is most reliably accessible June to October; winter visits require checking conditions beforehand and carrying a stove and fuel. The surrounding terrain offers scrambling, rock routes up to grade 3, and traverses of the ridge in both directions.
Book in advance through the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) or contact local mountaineering clubs in the Isère. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends; aim to reserve 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season. Out-of-season visits should be confirmed with the FFCAM well in advance, as access and conditions vary. Bring a map and compass or GPS; navigation on the approach and ridge can be obscured in poor visibility.