Top 4 Huts and Cabins around Réserve naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors

Several huts are highly regarded for their location and features. The Pré Peyret Hut is a popular stone structure, known as a practical shelter and a crossroads for trails, with a water source nearby. The Refuge de la Jasse du Play is another essential stop for those on the Grande Traversée du Vercors (GTV), situated in a magnificent clearing with views of the Grand Veymont.

Most unguarded huts in the Réserve naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors are simple and functional. They typically include a table, benches, and sleeping areas, though mattresses are not provided. Many, like the Refuge de Tiolache du Milieu, also feature a stove. Visitors should always be prepared with their own sleeping gear and enough water.

Water sources vary in reliability. The Chaumailloux Refuge benefits from a spring that flows year-round. The Pré Peyret Hut has a water source about 100 meters south. However, sources like the Fontaine du Play near Refuge de la Jasse du Play or Fontaine de Tiolache near Refuge de Tiolache du Milieu can be low or dry, especially in summer. Always carry sufficient water or be prepared to filter.

Many huts offer stunning natural vistas. The Chaumailloux Refuge provides breathtaking views of Mont Aiguille. The Refuge de la Jasse du Play is situated in a clearing with views of the Grand Veymont. Visitors to the Refuge de Tiolache du Milieu have reported excellent sunset views.

Yes, near the Chaumailloux Refuge, you can find the resistance memorial and caves, which are sites of great historical importance in the Vercors region.

The Réserve naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors has strict regulations. Huts cannot be reserved and space is not guaranteed, so bringing a tent as a backup is advised. Bivouacking (pitching a tent) is generally permitted between 5 PM and 9 AM. Dogs are prohibited (except working sheepdogs), and fires are not allowed. Always respect the protected status of the area.

The region around the huts offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like the Aiguille Pass – Pas de l'Aiguille Memorial loop. There are also traffic-free bike rides, such as the Côte 2000 – View of the Vercors Mountains loop. For hikers, there are waterfall hikes like the Tour of Mont Aiguille. You can explore more options in the Running Trails, Traffic-free bike rides, and Waterfall hikes guides for the region.

Given the remote nature and unguarded status of most huts, you should pack essential gear. This includes your own sleeping bag and mat, sufficient water (or purification tablets/filter), food, cooking equipment, and potentially firewood if the hut has a stove. A tent is highly recommended as a backup for sleeping, as hut space is not guaranteed. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

While popular huts like Pré Peyret can see many visitors, smaller, more remote options might offer a quieter experience. The Refuge de Tiolache du Milieu is a small, recently restored stone cabin, ideal for two to four people, which could provide a more intimate setting. The Abri des Aiguillettes Hut is also a small shelter, accommodating up to four people.

The best time to visit depends on your activity. Summer and early autumn offer the most favorable weather for hiking and accessing the high plateaus, though water sources can be low. Winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing, but access to huts can be challenging due to snow, and specific winter preparation is essential. Always check weather conditions before your trip, as they can change rapidly.

Yes, some huts are ideal for a break or picnic. The Cabane de Carette is described as a superb little refuge nestled in a beautiful clearing, perfect for a bivouac or simply a picnic stop. The Abri des Aiguillettes Hut is also in a dream spot, suitable for a break.