Refuge de la Cantonnière

Refuge de la Cantonnière sits at 1,850m in the Alpes-Maritimes, on the border between the Parc National du Mercantour and accessible high country. The hut anchors the Vallée de la Vésubie, serving hikers on routes toward Pic de la Colmiane and traverses toward the Parc de la Vanoise. Access from Roquebillière village takes 4–5 hours on foot via the valley trail, a steady ascent through beech and spruce forest. Most parties approach from the north, linking it into circuits across the eastern French Alps.
The refuge operates year-round and holds 36 beds across multiple rooms. Meals are available—book dinner and breakfast when you reserve your bed. Water comes from the spring. The hut has no electricity, heating is wood-fired, and you'll need a headtorch. Mobile signal is weak to non-existent; come prepared for isolation. The warden maintains the place alone during off-peak seasons, so expect basic but functional accommodation suited to walkers, not climbers seeking luxuries.
Book directly by email or phone well ahead for July and August; June and September fill quickly too. The hut closes briefly in November and again briefly in April. Confirm opening dates when you contact them, as weather and staffing sometimes shift the schedule. Payment is typically by card or cash on arrival.