Refuge de Laval
3.9About
Refuge de Laval sits at 2,000m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the eastern flank of the Massif du Dévoluy. The hut is reached via the Gorges du Souloise valley from Superdévoluy village. Allow 2 hours 30 minutes on foot from the car park at Châtillon. The trail climbs steadily through mixed forest before opening onto alpine meadows in the final section. Winter access is unreliable; check conditions with the refuge before travelling outside summer months.
The refuge is a simple, well-maintained base run by FFCAM volunteers. It sleeps 30 people in dormitory rooms with basic bedding and blankets provided. Full meals are served at dinner; packed lunches available. There is no shower, but washing facilities exist. A wood stove provides heat. The hut typically opens mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow melt and staffing. Day visitors are welcome during opening hours. The surrounding terrain offers moderate walks to alpine lakes and ridge traverses across the Dévoluy plateau.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email at least 3 weeks ahead for July and August. Weekends fill quickly. June and September are quieter. The refuge keeper can advise on trail conditions and walking options. Arrive before dark; there is no electric lighting, only gas lamps and candles.
The refuge is a simple, well-maintained base run by FFCAM volunteers. It sleeps 30 people in dormitory rooms with basic bedding and blankets provided. Full meals are served at dinner; packed lunches available. There is no shower, but washing facilities exist. A wood stove provides heat. The hut typically opens mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow melt and staffing. Day visitors are welcome during opening hours. The surrounding terrain offers moderate walks to alpine lakes and ridge traverses across the Dévoluy plateau.
Book directly with the refuge by phone or email at least 3 weeks ahead for July and August. Weekends fill quickly. June and September are quieter. The refuge keeper can advise on trail conditions and walking options. Arrive before dark; there is no electric lighting, only gas lamps and candles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; shoulder season (June, September) requires 4–6 weeks' notice.
Refuge de Laval is staffed June to September; winter access is unreliable and requires advance confirmation with the refuge.
Park at Châtillon near Superdévoluy village and hike 2 hours 30 minutes via the Gorges du Souloise valley, gaining 2,000m through forest then alpine meadows.
The refuge provides dinner and breakfast; bring your sleeping bag or rent bedding, and expect basic dormitory accommodation.
Yes, the steady 2.5-hour approach on a clear trail is manageable for fit beginners; it's an ideal introductory hut for acclimatisation and day hikes in the Dévoluy.
Location
45.0575, 6.5299
Plan your visit
Get directionsHutLists Score
3.9
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
Facilities
Meals served
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.