A timeless night with friends

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It is after a long day of work that we leave in the direction of the Faravel hut. First, we have to get our bivouac bags, prepared the day before, throw them in the trunk in order to take the road towards the Freissinières valley. The abundant snow has taken over the queens of the valley and lets us park in the winter car park, before the famous avalanche that cuts off the road every winter. We have a bite to eat, we regretfully take off our sneakers and it is with skis on our feet that we leave to reach our refuge for the night: the Faravel hut.

The Ascension

The path is initially flat and joins the summer car park, then we start our ascent to Dormillouse. Before reaching the hamlet, we turn left towards Lake Palluel. Under the cover of the pine trees, the snow remains fresh and cozy, and it is by following the tracks of hares and foxes that we find a snow bridge that allows us to cross the torrent. Once out of the forest, we can make out the expanse of Lake Palluel under the snowpack. We then head north to climb a lock to reach the Faravel hut.

Cabin: a rustic and basic refuge that consists of a roof. A roof to protect yourself from the cold, the wind, the elements. In winter, temperatures are low, and snow covers all surfaces. To get through the night, it is therefore important to insulate yourself from the cold and humidity. The Faravel hut embodies the notion of refuge for all those who venture to the depths of the valley. In winter, only the access to the valleys under the roof is open. Formerly the barn, where cereals were dried out. A few blankets, a hanging table and two benches, a solar shower in the middle, the place is basic but welcoming. We heat water in our stoves to rehydrate our freeze-dried foods. A few squares of chocolate and herbal tea later, the night is clear, calm and starry, and it doesn’t take long for us to fall asleep, wrapped up in our feather duvets, eyes closed.

The next day, the return to the car park went smoothly. We put on our skins to reach Dormillouse, and the few downhill bends that lead us there will allow us to enjoy the last fresh snow in a valley on the north side. These will be the only ones, because further down we will only find “crust” and “concrete” snow. When you arrive at the car, you savor this moment spent out of time, far from the traffic, the noise of the horns, the shopping list to do and the worries of everyday life.