Deep in the Ossau Valley in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, the Arrémoulit refuge will reopen its doors during the summer of 2026 after several years of renovation. More comfortable and energy-efficient, it maintains a capacity of 44 beds and remains accessible to both experienced mountaineers and families arriving by the famous Artouste train.
140 years of history in the heart of the Pyrenees
The story of Arrémoulit begins in 1886, when the Alpine Club builds what it presents as the first refuge in the Pyrenees. At the time, it's nothing more than a simple rock shelter.
Destroyed and rebuilt several times during the 20th century, the refuge has endured through the decades thanks to its exceptional location in the Balaitous massif. It sits at the foot of the Palas peak, which towers at 2,974 meters, the highest summit in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
Mountaineers, climbers and hikers meet up here before tackling the Palas, the Arriel at 2,824 meters, or continuing their journey along the Haute Route Pyrénéenne.
3.75 million euros to transform the Arrémoulit refuge
After 3 years of construction, the refuge now features 318 m² spread over two levels. Its capacity remains set at 44 peoplespread across seven dormitories with 2 to 10 beds each. The common room, once too small, has been enlarged to accommodate 5 dining tables and now features wood heating. A day-pack room has also been set up for hikers managing their own schedules.
Part of its history was nonetheless preserved: the vaulted room dating from the 1927 building was restored, while the new construction rests on the stone foundation of the old shelter.
A self-sufficient shelter in the heart of the mountains
In this particularly preserved environment, the renovation was also designed to minimize its footprint. The compact building is clad in stainless steel siding meant to gradually patina to blend better into the landscape.
On the roof, 30 photovoltaic panels and 6 thermal solar panels provide the energy and hot water needed to run the refuge. Dry toilets have been installed to reduce water consumption. In total, the project represents an investment of 3.75 million euros, financed by the French Federation of Alpine and Mountain Clubs with the support of several public partners.
Accessible in 1 hour 30 minutes on foot from the Artouste train
Despite its high mountain setting, Arrémolit isn't reserved for mountaineers. One of the most accessible routes involves taking the Artouste train, then to walk approximately 1h30 from its arrival station to the refuge.
More experienced hikers can also set out from Caillou de Soques, with approximately 4 hours of walking and 1,000 meters of elevation gain, or reach Arrémoulit from Spain and the Tena valley.