Rifugio Pian Delle Gorre

Rifugio Pian Delle Gorre sits at 1,032m in the Alpes-Maritimes, deep in the backcountry between the Vallée de la Vésubie and Vallée de la Tinée. Access is on foot only. From Saint-Martin-Vésubie, follow the Vallée de la Madone de Fenestre trail for roughly 2 hours to reach the refuge. The hike gains 350m and crosses mixed terrain of open meadow and forest. In winter, snow closes the upper approach, making this a summer-only destination. The refuge sits at the junction of several longer traverses—it's a natural rest point for day hikes into the surrounding limestone peaks and valleys.
The rifugio is a simple mountain shelter run as a mountain hut with basic dormitory beds and a small kitchen. Staff prepare meals if you book ahead. Water comes from a spring near the refuge. Facilities are stripped down to essentials: expect no electricity, no showers, and an outdoor toilet. The refuge sleeps roughly 15 people in shared rooms. Open June through September depending on snow. FFCAM maintains the route and structure, though this is not a CAF-managed hut.
Book directly with the guardian in advance, particularly for weekends and July–August. The refuge fills regularly during summer due to its position on popular traverse routes. Early contact is essential—phone ahead or arrive in person on a preliminary visit. Supplies are not sold on-site, so bring or pack food from the valley. The hut operates on a self-catering or half-board basis depending on the guardian's availability.