Rifugio Monte Grai - Silvio Lepanto

Rifugio Monte Grai sits at 1920m on the border between France and Italy in the Alpes-Maritimes, offering straightforward access to the limestone peaks around Mont Grai. Approach from the Italian side via Ventimiglia takes 2.5–3 hours on marked trails through Mediterranean scrubland that shifts to alpine meadow as you gain height. The hut sits on the watershed, making it useful for traverses between the Côte d'Azur hinterland and Piedmont. Weather can shift fast here; afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and autumn.
The rifugio operates as a simple mountain shelter run by CAI Ventimiglia. Capacity is modest—around 20 beds in shared rooms—with a small kitchen and water from a nearby source. Meals are basic: pasta, polenta, and local cheese rather than full menus. The hut opens year-round but staffing is seasonal; winter visits require prior arrangement. Most climbers use it as a base for scrambles and rock routes on the surrounding gneiss and limestone, or as a stopping point on longer ridge walks.
Contact CAI Ventimiglia directly to book or check current opening dates. The hut fills quickly during July and August weekends; book at least 2 weeks ahead for summer visits. Winter access is possible but you must confirm staffing before arriving. Payment is typically in cash.