Refuge des Merveilles
3.6About
Refuge des Merveilles stands at 2,130m in the Alpes-Maritimes, deep in the Vallée des Merveilles. Most hikers approach from the Lac de Mesches trailhead near Saint-Dalmas-de-Tende, a 3 to 3.5 hour walk gaining 650m. The route follows the Vallée de la Minière, crossing alpine meadows and rocky terrain before reaching the hut. Alternative access comes from the south via Castérino, adding time but offering views across the Parc du Mercantour.
The refuge accommodates 79 people in dorm rooms and smaller sleeping areas. Meals are prepared on-site—book half-board when you reserve. The kitchen supplies hot water for tea and simple supplies for self-catering if needed. Water comes from mountain sources. The hut operates from late May through early October, with the season starting when snow clears the upper valley. There is no WiFi; bring a paper map and compass.
Email [email protected] or call the FFCAM office to book. July and August are fully reserved 8 to 10 weeks ahead. June and September are quieter but still book 4 to 6 weeks in advance. The hut closes most Mondays and Tuesdays outside peak season, so confirm availability before you travel. Arrive by mid-afternoon to settle in before dinner service.
The refuge accommodates 79 people in dorm rooms and smaller sleeping areas. Meals are prepared on-site—book half-board when you reserve. The kitchen supplies hot water for tea and simple supplies for self-catering if needed. Water comes from mountain sources. The hut operates from late May through early October, with the season starting when snow clears the upper valley. There is no WiFi; bring a paper map and compass.
Email [email protected] or call the FFCAM office to book. July and August are fully reserved 8 to 10 weeks ahead. June and September are quieter but still book 4 to 6 weeks in advance. The hut closes most Mondays and Tuesdays outside peak season, so confirm availability before you travel. Arrive by mid-afternoon to settle in before dinner service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for July and August; contact the refuge by email or phone to confirm availability and arrange payment.
The refuge is typically staffed from mid-June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions and staff availability.
Start from the Lac de Mesches trailhead near Saint-Dalmas-de-Tende for a 3 to 3.5 hour hike gaining 650m, or approach from Castérino to the south for a longer route.
The refuge offers dinner and breakfast; you sleep in dorm rooms with 79 beds total—bring a sleeping bag or hire bedding.
Yes, if you're fit for a half-day hike with 650m gain; the route is well-marked and non-technical, though the altitude and distance demand decent fitness.
Location
44.0574, 7.4518
HutLists Score
3.6
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- FFCAM Club Alpin Français
- Total
- 79
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +33 4 93 04 64 64
- Website
- https://refugedesmerveilles.ffcam.fr/
Activities
Featured In
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