Ancien Refuge du Sélé Refuge D'Hiver
2.0About
Ancien Refuge du Sélé sits at 2626m on the eastern flank of the Pic de la Selle, deep in the Hautes-Alpes. The hut is accessed from the Vallée du Fournel via the hamlet of Champoléon. The walk in takes around 4 hours from Champoléon village, gaining 1,200m through larch forest and alpine meadow. Winter access is possible but requires mountain skills and may demand crampons and an ice axe depending on snow conditions.
The refuge operates as a winter hut with basic facilities. It sleeps around 20 people in dormitory bunks. The guardian provides simple meals and hot drinks during the season. Water comes from a spring; the hut has no shower. The toilet is outside. Opening depends on snow conditions, typically from December to April. Check current status before travel as winter refuges often have minimal staffing.
Contact the hut directly through the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) database or local Hautes-Alpes tourism offices. Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends during peak winter season. The hut fills quickly during stable weather windows when ski mountaineering and snowshoeing are optimal. Summer use is minimal as the structure is not maintained for that season.
The refuge operates as a winter hut with basic facilities. It sleeps around 20 people in dormitory bunks. The guardian provides simple meals and hot drinks during the season. Water comes from a spring; the hut has no shower. The toilet is outside. Opening depends on snow conditions, typically from December to April. Check current status before travel as winter refuges often have minimal staffing.
Contact the hut directly through the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) database or local Hautes-Alpes tourism offices. Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends during peak winter season. The hut fills quickly during stable weather windows when ski mountaineering and snowshoeing are optimal. Summer use is minimal as the structure is not maintained for that season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends; winter visits need coordination with the guardian well in advance since access depends on snow conditions.
The refuge operates year-round as a winter hut, but summer staffing and full facilities are available June to September; winter use requires prior arrangement.
From Champoléon village in the Vallée du Fournel, allow 4 hours to hike in, gaining 1,200m through larch forest and alpine meadow to reach 2,626m.
Basic winter-hut setup with around 20 beds; bring your own sleeping bag and expect minimal amenities—no showers, water from streams or melted snow.
Summer hiking is fine for fit walkers comfortable with 1,200m ascent; winter access demands mountain experience, navigation skills, and crampons—not for beginners.
Location
44.8745, 6.3836
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