Refuge du Clôt des Vaches
3.6About
Refuge du Clôt des Vaches sits at 2,253m in the Hautes-Alpes, serving hikers crossing the high pastures and ridges between the Queyras and Champsaur valleys. Access is via the GR5 long-distance trail or shorter valley approaches from Guillestre or Ancelle. Most routes take 3–4 hours from the nearest road-head. The refuge sits above the tree line on open alpine terrain, giving direct access to the surrounding 2,600–2,800m summits and col crossings.
The refuge holds 30 beds across dormitory rooms. Meals are available: a hot dinner and breakfast are standard, with packed lunches on request. There is running water and basic washroom facilities; toilets are outside. The hut operates year-round, though winter access requires serious mountain skills and route-finding ability. Summer (June–September) is the standard season when all facilities are fully staffed and reliable. The guardian can advise on conditions and route choices across the local network.
Book by phone directly with the guardian. July and August are fully reserved well in advance—contact by April if targeting peak season. May, June, and September offer better availability. The refuge is unmanned on occasional winter dates, so confirm ahead if planning an off-season visit. Half-board (dinner, bed, breakfast) is the standard arrangement; day visits are possible if space permits.
The refuge holds 30 beds across dormitory rooms. Meals are available: a hot dinner and breakfast are standard, with packed lunches on request. There is running water and basic washroom facilities; toilets are outside. The hut operates year-round, though winter access requires serious mountain skills and route-finding ability. Summer (June–September) is the standard season when all facilities are fully staffed and reliable. The guardian can advise on conditions and route choices across the local network.
Book by phone directly with the guardian. July and August are fully reserved well in advance—contact by April if targeting peak season. May, June, and September offer better availability. The refuge is unmanned on occasional winter dates, so confirm ahead if planning an off-season visit. Half-board (dinner, bed, breakfast) is the standard arrangement; day visits are possible if space permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; shoulder season (June, September) requires 4–6 weeks' notice. Call ahead to confirm availability and meals.
The refuge is typically open June to September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions and staffing—contact by phone before planning your visit.
Approach via the GR5 trail or from Guillestre or Ancelle; most routes take 3–4 hours from the nearest road-head and climb to 2,253m.
The refuge has 30 beds in dormitory rooms and provides meals; confirm shower availability and meal options when you book.
Yes, for hikers comfortable with a 3–4 hour uphill walk and basic dorm accommodation; the alpine terrain above tree line is exposed, so solid fitness and weather awareness are essential.
Location
45.0320, 6.4845
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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
3.6
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 30
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- +33 6 66 69 11 73
- Website
- https://www.refugeclotdesvaches.com/
Activities
Featured In
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