About
Gîte des Garins sits at 1,850m in the Chaîne de Belledonne, reached via the hamlet of Allevard in the northern Savoie. From Allevard village, follow the GR55 uphill through mixed forest for 2.5 hours to reach the hut. The route gains 850m steadily but is well-marked and traffic-free compared to busier Ecrins approaches. The gîte works as a base for day hikes across the range or a stop on the GR55 linking Chambéry to Grenoble.
The hut sleeps 30 across shared dormitories and has good kitchen facilities for self-catering groups. It operates as a simple refuge with no full meal service but will prepare packed lunches if ordered in advance. Water comes from the spring nearby. The building is open year-round but foot traffic peaks June to September. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis depending on snowpack.
Book direct with the guardian or contact the FFCAM Chambéry section, which oversees the hut. Groups of 10+ should book 2 months ahead for July and August. The hut fills quickly on summer weekends. Off-season visits (April, October, early December) rarely require advance notice. Bring a sleeping bag even if you're not camping outside—blankets aren't always provided. The guardian can advise on conditions for linking routes across the Belledonne.
The hut sleeps 30 across shared dormitories and has good kitchen facilities for self-catering groups. It operates as a simple refuge with no full meal service but will prepare packed lunches if ordered in advance. Water comes from the spring nearby. The building is open year-round but foot traffic peaks June to September. Winter access requires snowshoes or skis depending on snowpack.
Book direct with the guardian or contact the FFCAM Chambéry section, which oversees the hut. Groups of 10+ should book 2 months ahead for July and August. The hut fills quickly on summer weekends. Off-season visits (April, October, early December) rarely require advance notice. Bring a sleeping bag even if you're not camping outside—blankets aren't always provided. The guardian can advise on conditions for linking routes across the Belledonne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; earlier dates and shoulder season are more flexible.
Open June to September; staffing varies so confirm dates with the hut before planning.
Start from Allevard village and follow the GR55 uphill through forest for 2.5 hours, gaining 850m to reach the hut at 1,850m.
The gîte has a kitchen for self-catering and dormitory beds for 30; confirm whether half-board or full meals are available when booking.
Yes—the 2.5-hour approach is steady but well-marked, making it a good entry point to Alpine hiking without technical difficulty.
Location
45.6910, 6.1467
HutLists Score
2.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- private
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Website
- https://refugedesgarins.net/
Activities
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.