About
Gîte-refuge de l'École sits at 1,850m in the Champsaur valley, east of Gap. The hut is a working mountain school building that opens seasonally to hikers and mountaineers. Most visitors approach via the Drac valley from Pont-de-Claret or from the hamlets around Champoléon. Allow 3–4 hours on foot from valley access points. The location works well as a base for routes into the southern Écrins massif or as an overnight stop on valley traverses.
The refuge operates with basic mountain hospitality. It has capacity for 30–40 people in shared dormitories and offers evening meals and breakfast using simple, hearty cooking. There is running water and heating. The building has been maintained for decades by FFCAM volunteers and reflects that ethos: functional rather than comfortable. Opening is typically June through September, though dates vary with school use and snow melt. Check ahead before planning.
Book by telephone well in advance, especially for July and August weekends. July and August see steady use from families and hiking groups. Phone the hut directly to confirm current opening dates, meal options, and any access restrictions from school activities.
The refuge operates with basic mountain hospitality. It has capacity for 30–40 people in shared dormitories and offers evening meals and breakfast using simple, hearty cooking. There is running water and heating. The building has been maintained for decades by FFCAM volunteers and reflects that ethos: functional rather than comfortable. Opening is typically June through September, though dates vary with school use and snow melt. Check ahead before planning.
Book by telephone well in advance, especially for July and August weekends. July and August see steady use from families and hiking groups. Phone the hut directly to confirm current opening dates, meal options, and any access restrictions from school activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Call ahead to confirm availability and reserve your place, especially for weekends or July–August when the hut fills up.
Gîte-refuge de l'École operates seasonally; contact them by phone to confirm exact opening and closing dates for your planned visit.
From Pont-de-Claret in the Drac valley or from hamlets near Champoléon, allow 3–4 hours on foot to reach the hut at 1,850m.
Expect basic mountain hospitality with dorm beds and simple meals; shower facilities are limited, so plan accordingly.
Yes—the approach is straightforward hiking rather than technical climbing, making it accessible for fit beginners, though the 3–4 hour walk and altitude require basic hill fitness.
Location
44.7376, 6.4445
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Don't forget to book
This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.4
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 4 92 20 90 01
- Website
- https://www.dormillouse.fr/le-gite-de-lecole-un-petit-refuge
Activities
Featured In
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