Gite de Lourantze

Gîte de Lourantze sits at 1,650m in the Queyras region, east of Guillestre in the southern French Alps. The hut anchors a network of summer trails across alpine meadows and rocky ridges. Most hikers approach via the Chemin de Queyras GR58, a 2–3 hour trek from Aiguilles or Château-Queyras. The gîte works as a base for day walks or a stage on longer Queyras circuits.

The gîte operates as a simple mountain refuge run by the FFCAM. It sleeps around 30 people in dormitory rooms. Meals focus on hearty evening set dinners and packed lunches for the next day. The building has a wood stove, basic shower facilities, and a communal dining area. Water comes from a mountain spring. It opens late June through mid-September, closing when snow blocks the access tracks. The gîte relies on foot traffic; no vehicle road reaches it.

Book directly with the warden by phone or email 8–10 weeks before your intended visit, especially for July and August weekends. The hut fills quickly during summer school holidays (mid-July to late August). Smaller groups can often find spaces with shorter notice. Payment is typically cash or bank transfer at the time of booking. Check opening dates in early June, as bad weather can delay the season start. Bring a sleeping bag or rent bedding on-site for a small fee.