Refuge de Chaumailloux
3.7About
Refuge de Chaumailloux sits at 1,640m in the Isère Alps, accessible from the Vercors plateau or via the Drac valley. The hut serves as a base for approaches to Mont Aiguille and routes through the limestone karst country. Most parties reach it in 2–3 hours from the nearest road access; the final approach involves steep terrain and loose scree in places, requiring care with boots and footing.
The refuge holds 20 beds across simple dormitory space. The guardian provides basic meals on request—typically a filling evening soup and simple breakfast—though you should confirm availability before arrival. Drinking water is reliable year-round. The hut has no flush toilets; expect a pit latrine. There is no electricity, heating, or shower facilities. The season runs June through September, weather permitting. Winter access is rare and requires mountaineering skills and avalanche awareness.
Book directly with the guardian by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends and July–August when numbers are tight. The hut fills fast during summer holidays and the Mont Aiguille season. Aim to arrive by mid-afternoon; the hut has no electric lighting beyond candles and simple headtamps. Bring a sleeping bag and warm layers. This is a working refuge for climbers and ridge walkers, not a tourist shelter.
The refuge holds 20 beds across simple dormitory space. The guardian provides basic meals on request—typically a filling evening soup and simple breakfast—though you should confirm availability before arrival. Drinking water is reliable year-round. The hut has no flush toilets; expect a pit latrine. There is no electricity, heating, or shower facilities. The season runs June through September, weather permitting. Winter access is rare and requires mountaineering skills and avalanche awareness.
Book directly with the guardian by phone or email at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends and July–August when numbers are tight. The hut fills fast during summer holidays and the Mont Aiguille season. Aim to arrive by mid-afternoon; the hut has no electric lighting beyond candles and simple headtamps. Bring a sleeping bag and warm layers. This is a working refuge for climbers and ridge walkers, not a tourist shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for July and August; contact the guardian directly as the hut has only 20 beds.
The refuge is typically staffed June to September, but confirm dates with the guardian before planning your trip.
Approach from the Vercors plateau or Drac valley; most parties reach it in 2–3 hours from road access via steep terrain and loose scree.
The guardian provides basic meals on request; the hut has drinking water but no flush toilets, so expect basic mountain conditions.
No—the steep, scree-covered final approach requires solid footwork and experience on loose terrain; better suited to experienced hikers and mountaineers.
Location
44.8054, 5.5119
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3.7
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Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 20
Facilities
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Drinking water
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