In the Combe Madame, there is no lake but there's (almost) everything else: a river, sheep, a donkey, chickens, chamois, marmots, apple / blueberry crumbles, cold drinks, good mattresses, hot drinks, hearty soups.
Getting there : In Allevard, take the D525a in the direction of La Ferrière. 500 meters from a lake, just before Fond-de-France, turn left, pass the gîte of La Martinette and park in the parking of La Martinette. Take the direct path that goes into the forest, in front of the car park, pass the first chalet (halfway), continue on the GR path along the creek from the left to the refuge of la Combe Madame (running time between 1:30 and 2:15).
Other possible routes to the refuge:
- from the Col du Glandon, by the Col de la Croix.
- from the refuge of Les Sept-Laux, by the Rocher Blanc or by the Col du Mouchillon (unmarked).
- from the refuge de l’Oule (unmarked).
High gain : 700m
Walking time : 2h
Ease of access :
IGN map : 3335 ET

Period of opening : The refuge is guarded from June to September. It is accessible outside of monitored period. Ask the hut keepers.

Prices : Night: 10 to 15 €
Breakfast: 8 €
Dinner: 15 €
Half board (pp): 26 to 36 €
Full board (pp): 33 to 44 €
Group rate per night: 13 €.


Tax not included.
Access : Access by car during the summer: from la Martinette (Fond de France/Sept-Laux, La Ferrière town), then 2 hours walk (height gain : 700m)
Access by public transport: Transisère 6200 from Grenoble to Allevard then bus G22 until la Martinette.