The Refuge du Clot - Xavier Blanc is the oldest refuge in the Valgaudemar Valley, a spectacular corner of the Southern French Alps also known as the "Little Himalayas". You will understand why as soon as you enter the valley just off the RN85 road in Saint-Firmin en Valgaudemar.
The Refuge was first open in 1898, when hiking and mountaineering was just a nascent phenomenon practiced only by die hard adventurers (mostly from Britain!). It is located on the banks of the Séveraisse River, the main torrent in the Valgaudemar Valley, and at the crossroads of some of the most famous Grande Randonnée paths, including our famous Tour du Vieux Chaillol.
It has a total capacity of 40 (dormitory style), and can be used as the departure point of some of the greatest hikes in this stunning valley, including the walk to two of our favorite refuges located much higher in altitude, the Refuge de Vallonpierre and the Refuge du Pigeonnier.
Matthieu and his team are very welcoming and spending only a night in this local institution is quite the memorable experience. They also serve delicious local and homemade food to help you get ready for your hike the next day or recover from the many hours you just spent on the beautiful paths of the Valgaudemar Valley!
Facilities and equipment included:
Bedding, Blankets, Garden Furniture, Sun Terrace
Facilities and equipment at extra charge:
Bar, Food Options, Refuge Shower, Tea & Coffee Facilities
Dinner at the Refuge du Clot - Xavier Blanc costs 18€ per person (17€ for children U8), and breakfast costs 8€ per person.
It is possible to order a picnic for the next day, for 10€ per person.
| Picnic | 12.00€ |
| Breakfast | 10.00€ |
| Evening Meal | 20.00€ |
We kindly ask you to arrive at the Refuge before 18H00, as this is when the gardiens start cooking dinner and it would be inappropriate to ask them to show you your room and the refuge's facilities while they're busy in the kitchen.
The Refuge du Clot - Xavier Blanc, as all other mountain refuges, offers rustic comfort, meaning bedding and blankets are provided but you can choose to bring your own liner as sheets and blankets are obviously not washed after every client.
It is possible to take a shower for 3€. Breakfast is usually served between 6h00 and 9H00 depending on if you're planning on a long hike that day, or just here to enjoy yourself amidst a spectacular mountain environment.
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