Gite des Garins

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.