Refuge des Sources
1.4
Hautes-Alpes, France
About
Refuge des Sources sits at 2,491m in the Parc National des Écrins, on the Col des Sources between the Pic de la Grave and Mont Viso. The standard approach is via the Vallée de la Guisane from Guillestre (1,000m), taking 4–5 hours on a clear trail. You can also approach from Italy via the Vallée del Pô, which takes 5–6 hours. The hut serves as a base for traversing the watershed or ascending Mont Viso (3,841m) from the easier Italian side—count 5–6 hours from the refuge to the summit.
The refuge has 40 beds across shared rooms and a small dormitory. Half-board is mandatory: expect basic but adequate mountain cooking, with evening meals and breakfast included. The kitchen runs on a gas cooker, so menus adapt to what's available. Water comes from the Col des Sources spring. The refuge operates June through September, with the season depending on snow melt and weather. Winter access is possible but rarely attempted.
Book directly with the guardian by phone or through the FFCAM website (the refuge is affiliated with the Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne). July and August fill quickly, especially weekends—reserve at least 3 months ahead for summer. The hut closes at the first significant October snowfall. Bring your own sleeping bag and towel.
The refuge has 40 beds across shared rooms and a small dormitory. Half-board is mandatory: expect basic but adequate mountain cooking, with evening meals and breakfast included. The kitchen runs on a gas cooker, so menus adapt to what's available. Water comes from the Col des Sources spring. The refuge operates June through September, with the season depending on snow melt and weather. Winter access is possible but rarely attempted.
Book directly with the guardian by phone or through the FFCAM website (the refuge is affiliated with the Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne). July and August fill quickly, especially weekends—reserve at least 3 months ahead for summer. The hut closes at the first significant October snowfall. Bring your own sleeping bag and towel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier if you're planning a Mont Viso ascent or a specific weekend.
The refuge is staffed from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions.
From Guillestre (1,000m), follow the Vallée de la Guisane trail for 4–5 hours to reach the Col des Sources at 2,491m; alternatively, approach from Italy via the Vallée del Pô in 5–6 hours.
Expect basic mountain refuge conditions: dormitory beds, communal meals (dinner and breakfast included with most bookings), and limited washing facilities—bring a towel and be ready for cold water.
Not ideal for beginners; the 4–5 hour approach gains 1,491m elevation, and Mont Viso (3,841m) ascents require scrambling experience and solid fitness.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Season
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- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website