Chalet (refuge) ONF
2.5
Haute-Savoie, France
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About
Refuge ONF sits at 2,413m in the Massif des Écrins, reached via the Vallouise valley. The standard approach from Ailefroide takes 3–4 hours on a well-marked path through larch forest and open pasture. Scrambling terrain in the final section demands sure footing and basic mountaineering experience. The hut serves as a staging post for ascents of Mont Pelvoux (3,946m) and Pic Coolidge (3,774m), both achievable as day trips for experienced parties.
The refuge sleeps around 50 in dormitory bunks. Half-board meals use local ingredients; vegetarian options are available with advance notice. Water comes from a spring near the hut—you'll collect it yourself. Toilet facilities are basic (pit latrines). There are no showers; the mountain stream provides cold water for washing. Winter closure typically runs November through May, though this varies by snow conditions. Summer capacity is often full on weekends.
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; June and September are less crowded. Contact the hut directly by phone or email to reserve and confirm current opening dates. Payment is cash or bank transfer; mobile coverage is patchy. The hut is managed by ONF (Office National des Forêts) and sits within Parc National des Écrins. Arriving with your own sleeping bag and earplugs is standard practice and improves sleep quality.
The refuge sleeps around 50 in dormitory bunks. Half-board meals use local ingredients; vegetarian options are available with advance notice. Water comes from a spring near the hut—you'll collect it yourself. Toilet facilities are basic (pit latrines). There are no showers; the mountain stream provides cold water for washing. Winter closure typically runs November through May, though this varies by snow conditions. Summer capacity is often full on weekends.
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; June and September are less crowded. Contact the hut directly by phone or email to reserve and confirm current opening dates. Payment is cash or bank transfer; mobile coverage is patchy. The hut is managed by ONF (Office National des Forêts) and sits within Parc National des Écrins. Arriving with your own sleeping bag and earplugs is standard practice and improves sleep quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 3–4 months ahead for July and August; the hut can fill quickly for Mont Pelvoux ascents.
The refuge is staffed from mid-June to mid-September, weather permitting.
Start from Ailefroide in the Vallouise valley; the standard approach takes 3–4 hours on a well-marked path with scrambling terrain in the final section.
The hut provides around 50 dormitory bunks and meals; there are no showers, flush toilets, or tap water.
No—the final scramble requires sure footing and basic mountaineering experience; this is a staging post for serious alpine climbers tackling Mont Pelvoux and Pic Coolidge.
Location
46.0922, 5.6000
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HutLists Score
2.5
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
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