Ricovero Desertes
1.1
Hautes-Alpes, France
About
Ricovero Desertes sits at 2,645m in the Hautes-Alpes, on the Italian side of the Franco-Italian border near Mont Viso. Access is from the Vallée de la Guil via the Refuge de Bouchet or from Crissolo (Italy). Allow 4–5 hours from Refuge de Bouchet; 3–4 hours from Crissolo. This is a mountain shelter for walkers and climbers moving through high terrain, not a destination hut. The approach is steep and exposed in places; bring map, compass, and experience with alpine terrain. Only 4 beds means this shelter fills instantly in summer. No guardian is present in shoulder seasons. The hut sits on a working shepherds' trail and often has mule traffic.
The shelter offers basic dormitory beds only. There is no food service, no water nearby, and no electricity. Bring a stove, fuel, and all meals. The roof is sound and walls provide wind protection, but expect cramped conditions and no amenities. Snow can linger until late June and returns in early September; the hut is accessible June to September in good years. Hard frosts occur even in July. Bring a sleeping bag rated to −5°C minimum.
Book through FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) if possible, though availability is extremely limited. Most climbers treat this as a wild shelter and don't pre-book. Arrive early if you need a bed in July and August. Carry a headtorch and full kit in case you cannot get inside.
The shelter offers basic dormitory beds only. There is no food service, no water nearby, and no electricity. Bring a stove, fuel, and all meals. The roof is sound and walls provide wind protection, but expect cramped conditions and no amenities. Snow can linger until late June and returns in early September; the hut is accessible June to September in good years. Hard frosts occur even in July. Bring a sleeping bag rated to −5°C minimum.
Book through FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) if possible, though availability is extremely limited. Most climbers treat this as a wild shelter and don't pre-book. Arrive early if you need a bed in July and August. Carry a headtorch and full kit in case you cannot get inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; this tiny shelter fills quickly due to its 4-bed capacity.
Ricovero Desertes is typically staffed June to September, but access depends on snow conditions—check locally before visiting in early June or late September.
From Refuge de Bouchet (Vallée de la Guil) allow 4–5 hours; from Crissolo, Italy, allow 3–4 hours. The route is steep and exposed; navigation skills and alpine experience are essential.
With only 4 beds, expect basic mountain shelter conditions—bring your own sleeping bag, and assume no meals or hot water beyond what you carry.
No—this is a high-altitude shelter (2,645m) on technical terrain for experienced mountaineers and fit walkers only, not for families or novices.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 4
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website