Lac du Pave alpine hut (FFCAM)

At the heart of a mountain cirque, between Le Pavé, Roche Méane and Pic Gaspard, on the shores of a glacial lake, this small mountain refuge offers a trip having an Himalayan air in one of the most secret and wild valleys from the massif des Ecrins. The ascent route is 4 hours starting from Arsine and has 1150m height difference

Climbing up to Lac du Pavé is first and foremost a magnificent hike, then a close-up view of the high mountains. Set in the heart of a majestic cirque, the new refuge du Pavé is part of a breathtaking scenery.... High mountains in their purest form. Recently renovated, and manned for the first time this summer, the new Pavé refuge will welcome mountaineers, climbers, experienced hikers and all nature lovers. You'll discover a refuge whose design was dictated by the surrounding environment, combining comfort and sobriety. Pauline, the janitor, will do her utmost to ensure that you have a great time in the mountains! Conviviality and good humor are the order of the day! The refuge offers quick access to a wide range of mountaineering and climbing routes, from the easiest to the most challenging. The most popular summit is the Pic nord des Cavales: one of the most beautiful easy mountaineering routes in the Ecrins massif, on excellent granite. Pointe Emma, which has the same characteristics, is also covered by numerous rope parties. These two summits offer numerous routes of varying difficulty, and both offer remarkable views over the Etançons valley and the south face of the Meije. Pointe des Chamois, next to Pointe Emma, is perfect for a quick introductory run. Fans of the great races of the wild Oisans will turn to the Pic Gaspard and its south-southeast ridge: the famous Devies-Gervasuti. Vertical enthusiasts should head for the foot of the south face of Le Pavé. Here you'll find three routes, including one of the most difficult climbs in the massif, with a 7b pitch at 3500 m! Long-distance climbers will enjoy the beautiful and demanding Pavé - Meije orientale traverse. A must in this sector. For snow climbers, the Col du Pavé is the ideal out-and-back route. From the col, you can also reach the Promontoire refuge or vice versa (serious route: steep, crevassed glacial terrain). Finally, don't forget the Grande Ruine and the famous Col du Diable. Due to global warming, this great couloir is no longer widely used, and you have to look for good snow conditions very early in the season.