Les Michellettes
3.6About
Les Michellettes sits at 1,690m in the Isère Alps, accessed via the valley approach from Chichilianne. The hut sits above the Gorges d'Engins, making it a natural base for ridge walks in the Chaîne de Belledonne. Most hikers approach from the Chichilianne car park—expect 2 to 2.5 hours on foot. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis depending on conditions. The location works well for traverses linking peaks in the range or as a staging point before heading north toward Col du Télégraphe.
Les Michellettes is a small refuge with 4 beds total, so it operates on a first-come basis with no reservation system. The guardian provides basic meals and hot drinks during the season. Water comes from a reliable spring nearby. Opening runs from June through September, though this depends on snow melt in spring. Winter visits are possible but require complete self-sufficiency. The hut is managed informally by local volunteers—contact the Parc de la Vanoise office or the Chichilianne mairie for current access details.
Arrive early in the day if you plan to stay, particularly on weekends. This is a true walkers' refuge, not a tourist facility. Bring a sleeping bag and expect basic conditions. No electricity or heating beyond a small stove. Stock supplies in Chichilianne before heading up—the hut carries minimal food reserves.
Les Michellettes is a small refuge with 4 beds total, so it operates on a first-come basis with no reservation system. The guardian provides basic meals and hot drinks during the season. Water comes from a reliable spring nearby. Opening runs from June through September, though this depends on snow melt in spring. Winter visits are possible but require complete self-sufficiency. The hut is managed informally by local volunteers—contact the Parc de la Vanoise office or the Chichilianne mairie for current access details.
Arrive early in the day if you plan to stay, particularly on weekends. This is a true walkers' refuge, not a tourist facility. Bring a sleeping bag and expect basic conditions. No electricity or heating beyond a small stove. Stock supplies in Chichilianne before heading up—the hut carries minimal food reserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for summer weekends; the hut has only 4 beds, so it fills quickly.
The hut is staffed June to September; winter access is possible with snowshoes or skis but requires contacting the guardian in advance.
Start from the Chichilianne car park and allow 2 to 2.5 hours for the valley approach; the hut sits at 1,690m above the Gorges d'Engins.
Full details on meals aren't specified here—contact the hut directly—but with only 4 beds expect a simple, small operation; bring a sleeping bag and be prepared for basic facilities.
Not ideal for beginners: the 4-bed capacity means it's popular with serious mountaineers and ridge walkers, and the location is better suited to experienced hikers doing traverses in the Chaîne de Belledonne.
Location
45.5780, 6.3606
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3.6
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
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