Capanna Sociale Barbero

Capanna Sociale Barbero sits at 1670m in the Alpes-Maritimes, accessible from the Vallée de la Roya. The approach takes 2–3 hours from the village of Tende, following established trails through mixed forest and alpine terrain. This is Italian Alpine Club territory, managed by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), though the hut sits just inside French jurisdiction. The location makes it a solid base for day routes into the Mercantour massif and approaches toward Mont Bégo.
The hut is small, with capacity for around 30 people in mixed dormitories. Meals are served to residents; contact ahead to confirm menu details and book dinner. Water comes from a spring; the hut operates a wood stove for heat and has basic washing facilities. Open year-round weather permitting, though winter access requires alpine mountaineering skills and crampons on the approach.
Book direct with the hut keeper. Phone numbers and contact details can be found through CAI's website or local mountain guide associations in Tende. July and August see the heaviest use; book 4–6 weeks ahead for these months. Winter visits require advance notice to ensure the hut will be open and provisioned.