Refuge D'Arbarétan
4.1About
Refuge d'Arbarétan sits at 1,812m in the Isère Alps, deep in the Parc National des Écrins. The hut stands on the GR54 circuit between Lac de Sainte-Marguerite and the Col de Sarenne. Most hikers approach from Vaujany via the Lac de Sainte-Marguerite trail—allow 3.5 to 4 hours from the village. The final climb is steep and exposed in places; start early and watch the weather.
This is a walkers' refuge, not a mountaineer's base. The hut holds 14 beds across simple dormitory rooms. A wardens offer basic meals and hot drinks, though the refuge does not have piped drinking water—collect from streams below or carry water in. Flush toilets are available. The refuge operates year-round but is lightly staffed outside the summer season; confirm opening dates before visiting. Heating and cooking facilities are basic; bring a sleeping bag and waterproof.
Book through the refuge directly as capacity is tight. Summer (June to September) fills quickly; reserve 4-6 weeks ahead for July and August. Winter visits require prior arrangement with the warden. Access roads to Vaujany can be difficult in heavy snow. The location suits hikers doing the GR54, but is not a base for technical climbing—nearby peaks like Mont Gerbier are non-technical scrambles rather than proper mountaineering objectives.
This is a walkers' refuge, not a mountaineer's base. The hut holds 14 beds across simple dormitory rooms. A wardens offer basic meals and hot drinks, though the refuge does not have piped drinking water—collect from streams below or carry water in. Flush toilets are available. The refuge operates year-round but is lightly staffed outside the summer season; confirm opening dates before visiting. Heating and cooking facilities are basic; bring a sleeping bag and waterproof.
Book through the refuge directly as capacity is tight. Summer (June to September) fills quickly; reserve 4-6 weeks ahead for July and August. Winter visits require prior arrangement with the warden. Access roads to Vaujany can be difficult in heavy snow. The location suits hikers doing the GR54, but is not a base for technical climbing—nearby peaks like Mont Gerbier are non-technical scrambles rather than proper mountaineering objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; the hut has only 14 beds. Contact the warden directly by phone or email well before your trip.
Open June to September; staffed by a warden during this period, though conditions and exact dates depend on snow and access.
From Vaujany village, hike via Lac de Sainte-Marguerite on the GR54—allow 3.5 to 4 hours total; the final climb is steep and exposed, so start early.
Flush toilets are available; there is no piped drinking water, so bring a water filter or carry enough from the lake.
The exposed final climb and remote location make it better suited to hikers with Alpine experience and good fitness; it's not ideal for beginners or families with young children.
Location
45.4374, 6.2196
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4.1
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Quick Facts
- Managing club
- PNF
- Total
- 14
Facilities
Meals served
Flush toilets
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