Refuge des Bans

Refuge des Bans sits at 2,106m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the border of Parc National des Écrins. The hut is reached from Vallouise via the Vallée du Fournel, a 4–5 hour approach that gains 900m steadily through larch forest and alpine meadow. The trail is well-marked but exposed in places. Most parties take the longer eastern route from Le Puy or the direct western approach from Puy-Saint-André depending on transport and fitness. Winter access is unreliable.
The FFCAM-managed refuge holds 22 beds in simple dormitory rooms. Meals are provided (dinner and breakfast); bring your own lunch or order a packed lunch. Water comes from a spring; the hut has no shower or hot water for washing beyond a kitchen tap. The season runs mid-June through September. The hut sits on the GR54 circuit and serves as a base for peaks including Pic de la Cabre and ascents toward Mont Pelvoux. Expect a working refuge atmosphere rather than comfort—the building is older and unheated.
Book directly by phone with the refuge keeper. Contact details are listed on the FFCAM website. July and August book months ahead; June and September have better availability. Arrive with cash for the overnight fee and meals, though the keeper may accept card payments—confirm in advance. A helmet is essential if you continue toward technical peaks beyond the refuge.