Chalet des Plans

Chalet des Plans sits at 1,950m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, accessed from Allevard-les-Bains via the Plan d'Allevard summer road or the GR55 hiking trail. The standard approach takes 2.5–3 hours from the car park at Plan d'Allevard, climbing steadily through pine forest before opening onto alpine meadow. Winter access requires ski or snowshoe from the same trailhead. The hut serves as a base for traversing the Belledonne crest and for technical mountaineering on the surrounding peaks.
The hut has capacity for 40 people in dorm rooms and a few private spaces. Meals are served daily during the season; the FFCAM-affiliated refuge manages both breakfast and packed lunches for climbers. Water comes from a spring. Toilet facilities are basic. The refuge opens from June through September, with occasional weekends in May and October depending on snow conditions.
Book directly with the hut from March onwards for July and August; midsummer weekends fill quickly. Phone ahead before arrival to confirm water availability and meal service, particularly in shoulder months. The hut accepts cash payment only—no card facilities. Groups of six or more should notify the guardian well in advance.