Spend a night in a refuge

Have you thought of spending a night in a mountain refuge?  It's great to escape the pollution, noise and lights of the city.  As night falls you experience the mountains in a whole new way.  We are lucky in Grenoble as the mountains are very close, so one doesn't have to be a keen hiker to reach some of the refuges.
There are two types of refuge the guarded and unguarded.  The first usually has to be booked.  There is a person who looks after the refuge, so it tends to be cleaner and well kept.  They will often cook a meal for the guests.  Sleeping accomodation is in dormitories.   Of course this type of refuge is not free.  A good example is the Cret de Poulet Refuge above St Pierre d'Allevard.  A fairly easy hour and a half walk from the cross country skiing centre at Barioz leads to the refuge.  In the summer, it is run by a young couple who are welcoming and provide copious meals.  In winter volunteers take over.  It is only open at weekends and is often booked well in advance.
The second possibility is the unguarded refuge which is free.  Things are decidely more basic.  The upkeep depends on volunteers from the local community.  People who stay are expected to tidy up after themselves.  There is usually tables, chairs, a fireplace, and matresses on a dormitory floor.  The door is always open and the refuge operates on a 'first come first served basis'.  Those who arrive too late may find themselves turned away as the refuge is already full.  A good example is Grande montagne refuge above La Rochette.  This refuge can be reached after a slightly steep one hour thirty minute walk.  The refuge is quite well equipped with pots and pans.  It is, however, popular and can fill up quickly.  One advantage is that there at least four other refuges within 1.5km of each other, so if one is full you can always try another.
One last point don't forget a sleeping bag and some toilet paper.