Refuge de l'Estrop

Refuge de l'Estrop sits at 2,042m in the Alpes-Maritimes, deep in the southern Alps where the landscape shifts from Mediterranean scrub to high alpine terrain. Access is from the Vallée de la Tinée. The standard approach takes 3–4 hours from the Lac de Rabuons trailhead, following a steady climb through pine forest and alpine meadow. The hut works as a base for traverses toward the Parc National du Mercantour and routes up Mont Clapier (3,045m). Weather can deteriorate fast here—bring a compass and map even on clear days.
The refuge operates year-round with 40 beds across several dormitories. Meals are simple, hearty, and cooked on site—expect pasta, stew, and mountain quantities. The guardian stays through winter and can usually accommodate unbooked arrivals in shoulder seasons, though July and August fill quickly. There's no electricity or mains water; the hut uses solar power and spring water. The toilet is outside. Bring a headtorch.
Book by phone directly with the guardian well ahead for July and August—at least 6–8 weeks. Winter visits require advance notice to confirm opening and supplies. The hut sees steady use from CAF groups and independent trekkers doing multi-day traverses. Contact through the refuge phone line or enquire through local mountain shops in Saint-Martin-Vésubie, which is the nearest village with services. Expect to pay cash or arrange payment beforehand.