Refuge le Baché

Refuge le Baché sits at 2,066m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, above the Gorges de l'Bourne near Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse. Most hikers approach from the Pas de l'Œillet trailhead (allow 2 hours 30 minutes) or from Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse village itself (3 hours 30 minutes). The hut serves as a base for traverses across the Belledonne range and scrambles to Mont Blanc de Charmant Som (2,082m). Winter access is possible but requires mountain skills.
The refuge operates year-round with 30 beds in shared dorms. A live-in guardian provides evening meals and breakfast. Water comes from a spring. The hut runs on solar power with limited electricity. Toilets are basic. July and August bring consistent crowds; shoulder seasons (May–June, September) are calmer. Expect minimal amenities and a functional approach to accommodation.
Book directly with the guardian by phone at least 2 weeks ahead. July weekends fill 4–6 weeks out. The refuge is managed under the FFCAM (Fédération Française des Clubs Alpins et de Montagne) system. Arrive before dark; the final approach involves exposed terrain. No hot showers. No WiFi. Bring cash for meals and supplies—resupply is impossible above the hut.