Cabin Forestière de Fontfroide

Cabane Forestière de Fontfroide sits at 1540m in the Hautes-Alpes, deep in the Parc National des Écrins. You reach it from the Vallée du Fournel via a hiking path that takes 2–3 hours depending on your fitness and the snow line. The cabin serves as a base for scrambling routes, day walks through alpine meadows, and access to higher peaks in the massif. Winter approaches are harder; check conditions before attempting travel in December through March.

The cabin sleeps 5 people in simple dormitory or mixed arrangement. It has a wood stove for heating, basic kitchen equipment, and cold running water. Bring your own food, fuel, or contact the guardian beforehand if provisions are needed. There are no meals provided, no showers, and no electricity. The season is June through September; winter use requires advance arrangement with the Parc National des Écrins. This is a true mountain refuge, not a staffed hut—expect self-sufficiency and an early start if you're summiting nearby peaks.

Book through the Parc National des Écrins office in Gap or contact local hiking clubs affiliated with FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne). July and August are busy; aim to confirm your stay 4–6 weeks ahead. Outside peak season, a phone call to the guardian days before arrival usually secures a bed. Bring a headtorch, a warm sleeping bag, and water purification tablets.