Refuge le Châtelet D'Ayères

Refuge le Châtelet d'Ayères sits at 1,425m in the French Alps, on the border region near Switzerland. It's accessible by car to the village of Ayères, then a 1-hour hike on marked trails. The refuge serves as a base for day hikes in the surrounding massif and as a stopping point for multi-day treks crossing between valleys.
The refuge holds 25 beds in simple rooms. Meals are prepared on-site using local produce; half-board (bed, dinner, breakfast) is the standard arrangement. Showers are available. The season runs from June through September, with some shoulder-season weekends in May and October depending on snow and staffing. The refuge operates independently rather than under SAC management, so standards and amenities reflect the family-run character typical of smaller French mountain lodges.
Book directly by phone as far ahead as possible. July and August fill quickly, especially weekends—aim for 4–6 weeks minimum. June and September are quieter but still require 2–3 weeks' notice. The refuge prefers advance payment or credit card reservation to hold your spot. Confirm your arrival time when booking, as dinner service has set hours. Phone ahead if you're arriving after 19:00.