Refuge du Rif Tort
3.1About
Refuge du Rif Tort sits at 2,240m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the approach to the Écrins massif. The hut lies above the hamlet of Pelvoux, reached via the Vallée de la Durance. Most climbers arrive on foot from the village of Pelvoux in 2–2.5 hours, following a well-marked path that gains 600m steadily through larch forest then opens onto alpine pasture. The final approach crosses scree and grass slopes to the hut. Some parties also reach it as part of longer traverses linking the Vallée de la Durance to the Vallée du Vénéon.
The refuge is a straightforward mountain hut run by FFCAM, offering 30 beds in shared dormitories. Meals are standard refuge fare: hearty dinner and breakfast included with half-board; packed lunches available for onward routes. Water comes from a spring and relies on meltwater in early season, so July and August are most reliable. The hut operates mid-June to end September, though dates shift with snow cover. Facilities are basic: no shower, composting toilets, lighting by solar panels. The location makes it a practical base for ascents of Pic Poeyrerolles (2,639m), Gran Vignemale approaches, and traverses into the Écrins proper.
Book direct with the refuge by phone or email from May onwards. July and August fill quickly; aim for June bookings by late April. Weekend slots vanish first. The hut is quiet in June and September, when you'll find beds more readily. Phone ahead to confirm current opening dates and water availability—early season snow can force later opening.
The refuge is a straightforward mountain hut run by FFCAM, offering 30 beds in shared dormitories. Meals are standard refuge fare: hearty dinner and breakfast included with half-board; packed lunches available for onward routes. Water comes from a spring and relies on meltwater in early season, so July and August are most reliable. The hut operates mid-June to end September, though dates shift with snow cover. Facilities are basic: no shower, composting toilets, lighting by solar panels. The location makes it a practical base for ascents of Pic Poeyrerolles (2,639m), Gran Vignemale approaches, and traverses into the Écrins proper.
Book direct with the refuge by phone or email from May onwards. July and August fill quickly; aim for June bookings by late April. Weekend slots vanish first. The hut is quiet in June and September, when you'll find beds more readily. Phone ahead to confirm current opening dates and water availability—early season snow can force later opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier dates and shoulder season (June, September) need less advance notice.
The refuge is typically staffed from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions.
From the village of Pelvoux, follow the well-marked path for 2–2.5 hours, gaining 600m through larch forest and alpine pasture to reach the hut at 2,240m.
The refuge serves dinner and breakfast; bring a sleeping bag as bedding is provided in shared dormitories, and toilets are standard mountain facilities (no showers).
Yes—the steady 2–2.5 hour ascent from Pelvoux is moderate and well-marked, making it accessible for fit hikers new to Alpine refuges.
Location
45.0771, 6.2122
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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
3.1
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
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