Refuge de la Fare, Rhone Alpes Travel Guide

Refuge de la Fare, standing at 2280m, is the oldest refuge in the Oisans region, dating back to 1887. This intimate, family-run stone hut welcomes hikers, climbers, mountaineers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic alpine experience. The refuge provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, accommodating guests in a single dormitory.Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the refuge is a perfect base for exploring the Grandes Rousses massif. From the refuge, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountaineering, and climbing. Popular activities include fishing in the nearby lakes and tackling the challenging trails that wind through the mountains. The area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including marmots and carnivorous plants near Lac Besson and Lac Faucille.Staying at Refuge de la Fare offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature. The refuge operates with a focus on sustainability, featuring rainwater collectors and waste management practices. While basic, the refuge provides essential comforts such as duvets, hot showers, and hand wash basins with hot water. The refuge offers half-board service with homemade dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Payment is accepted via cash or check only.Historically, the refuge served as a temporary hospital during World War II, offering shelter to wounded members of the Maquis de l'Oisans. Today, five panels along the route recount this significant episode. A visit to Refuge de la Fare is not just a mountain getaway; it's an immersion into the history and natural beauty of the French Alps.