The Aigle Refuge

From 1875 onward, mountaineers used the Rocher de l'Aigle, on the ridge separating the Homme and Tabuchet glaciers, as a simple bivouac during attempts to climb the northern side of La Meije. The site quickly became an essential stop for rope teams committed to the ridges. In 1910, a real refuge was built there: a very simple wooden hut, perched at 3,445 meters, at the foot of the ridges of La Meije. The construction site was an achievement in itself: 22% of the total cost corresponded solely to human portage from La Grave, and the final bill reached 12,888.25 francs of the time. With the growth of mountaineering, the number of visitors increased and the refuge became staffed in 1971. In the 1980s, a small annex was added to house the kitchen, storage room, and guardian's accommodation. The beginning of the 21st century then saw a major renovation, extending the life of this emblematic refuge of the high mountains of La Grave.