Refuge du Merlet
3.8About
Refuge du Merlet sits at 1,940m in the Isère, accessible via hiking routes from the surrounding valleys. The hut serves as a base for approaches to peaks in the northern Écrins massif and makes a reasonable day-hike destination from lower trailheads. Access times vary between 3–5 hours depending on your starting point and fitness. The terrain is steep in places but well-marked during summer months.
The refuge is small, offering 8 beds in basic mountain accommodation. You'll find drinking water on-site. Meals and supplies must be arranged in advance—this is not a staffed refuge with a kitchen service, so bring food or book provisions ahead. The hut opens during the summer season, typically June to September, though dates depend on snow conditions and maintenance work. Winter access is unreliable and should not be assumed.
Contact the Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne (FFCAM) or local tourist offices in Isère for current booking procedures and availability, as this small refuge operates under FFCAM management. Book at least 2–3 months ahead if you're planning to visit July or August. Confirm access conditions before travelling, as poor weather or avalanche risk can close approaches during shoulder seasons.
The refuge is small, offering 8 beds in basic mountain accommodation. You'll find drinking water on-site. Meals and supplies must be arranged in advance—this is not a staffed refuge with a kitchen service, so bring food or book provisions ahead. The hut opens during the summer season, typically June to September, though dates depend on snow conditions and maintenance work. Winter access is unreliable and should not be assumed.
Contact the Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne (FFCAM) or local tourist offices in Isère for current booking procedures and availability, as this small refuge operates under FFCAM management. Book at least 2–3 months ahead if you're planning to visit July or August. Confirm access conditions before travelling, as poor weather or avalanche risk can close approaches during shoulder seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; this 8-bed hut fills quickly during peak season.
The refuge is staffed from June to September, though exact dates depend on snow conditions and staffing availability.
The hut is reached via marked hiking trails from surrounding valleys; expect 3–5 hours depending on your starting point and fitness level.
Expect basic accommodation with 8 beds and drinking water on-site; bring or arrange your own food, as there is no kitchen or meals service.
The steep terrain and self-catering requirement make this better suited to experienced mountaineers; it's not ideal for families or casual hikers.
Location
45.3345, 6.1701
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3.8
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM
- Total
- 8
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Activities
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