Fontaine Noire
3.1About
Fontaine Noire sits at 1,450m in the Isère, on the approach to routes into the Chaîne de Belledonne. The hut serves as a base for day walks in mixed terrain and as an overnight stop for longer ridge traverses. Access is straightforward: from the valley, allow 2–3 hours on foot depending on your starting point and fitness. The hut marks the transition from forested approach into open alpine terrain. Winter access is limited and should be checked directly with the hut.
The refuge accommodates around 30 people in dormitory spaces. It operates as a staffed mountain hut offering evening meals and breakfast; bring your own lunch or buy supplies in the valley beforehand. Kitchen facilities and a small bar are available. Water comes from the spring that gives the hut its name. The hut opens from late spring through autumn, with exact dates depending on snow conditions—typically May or June through September or October. Check seasonal status before planning a winter visit.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email at least two weeks ahead for weekends and July–August, when mountain hut capacity fills quickly across the region. The FFCAM manages many refuges in this area; Fontaine Noire operates independently. Arrive with realistic expectations about comfort: this is a working mountain hut, not a hotel. Groups planning to arrive together should contact the keeper in advance to confirm accommodation availability.
The refuge accommodates around 30 people in dormitory spaces. It operates as a staffed mountain hut offering evening meals and breakfast; bring your own lunch or buy supplies in the valley beforehand. Kitchen facilities and a small bar are available. Water comes from the spring that gives the hut its name. The hut opens from late spring through autumn, with exact dates depending on snow conditions—typically May or June through September or October. Check seasonal status before planning a winter visit.
Book directly with the hut by phone or email at least two weeks ahead for weekends and July–August, when mountain hut capacity fills quickly across the region. The FFCAM manages many refuges in this area; Fontaine Noire operates independently. Arrive with realistic expectations about comfort: this is a working mountain hut, not a hotel. Groups planning to arrive together should contact the keeper in advance to confirm accommodation availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months in advance for July and August; shoulder seasons (June, September) need less lead time but confirm availability directly with the hut.
Fontaine Noire is typically open June to September; winter access is variable and requires confirmation with the hut.
From the valley it's a 2–3 hour walk depending on your starting point and fitness; the approach transitions from forest into open alpine terrain.
The hut serves meals and provides bunk beds; check directly about shower facilities and any water limitations at this elevation.
Yes, for day walks in mixed terrain; the 2–3 hour approach is manageable for fit beginners, though longer ridge traverses require mountaineering experience.
Location
45.4427, 6.2384
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HutLists Score
3.1
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Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
Facilities
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