Refuge de l'Oriol de Sainte-Marguerite
4.3About
Refuge de l'Oriol de Sainte-Marguerite sits at 2026m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the eastern flank of the Chaîne de la Grande Ruine. The hut serves as a base for day hikes into the surrounding limestone terrain and acts as a waypoint on longer traverses. Access is via the village of Sainte-Marguerite; the approach hike takes roughly 2–2.5 hours depending on the exact trailhead and your fitness. The terrain is straightforward, gaining elevation gradually through mixed woodland and alpine meadow.
The refuge operates as a small, family-run operation with 19 beds split between dormitory and smaller rooms. Meals are provided for residents—book dinner and breakfast when you reserve. The hut has basic facilities: running water, heating, and no electricity beyond essentials. The season runs from June through September, with July and August busiest. Weather can change rapidly above 2000m, so come prepared for wind and cold even in high summer.
Phone the hut directly to check availability and reserve beds. July and August book out 4–6 weeks ahead. Outside peak season, calling a few days before arrival usually works. Payment is typically in cash; confirm current policies when booking. The hut is staffed by the guardians, so call during daylight hours for the best chance of reaching them.
The refuge operates as a small, family-run operation with 19 beds split between dormitory and smaller rooms. Meals are provided for residents—book dinner and breakfast when you reserve. The hut has basic facilities: running water, heating, and no electricity beyond essentials. The season runs from June through September, with July and August busiest. Weather can change rapidly above 2000m, so come prepared for wind and cold even in high summer.
Phone the hut directly to check availability and reserve beds. July and August book out 4–6 weeks ahead. Outside peak season, calling a few days before arrival usually works. Payment is typically in cash; confirm current policies when booking. The hut is staffed by the guardians, so call during daylight hours for the best chance of reaching them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the refuge by phone at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for July and August weekends; the 19-bed capacity fills quickly.
The refuge is typically open June to September, though exact dates vary by year—call ahead to confirm staffing.
Start from the village of Sainte-Marguerite and hike 2–2.5 hours via gradual woodland and meadow trails to reach 2026m.
The refuge provides beds and meals; water is available on-site, but shower facilities are basic or unavailable—pack a washcloth.
Yes—the approach hike is straightforward with steady, gentle elevation gain and no technical scrambling, making it ideal for first-time refuge users.
Location
44.7970, 6.5938
HutLists Score
4.3
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 19
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 4 92 23 06 34
- Website
- https://loriol.pagesperso-orange.fr/
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