Refuge de Fontanalba

Refuge de Fontanalba sits at 2,018m in the Maritime Alps above the Val Gesso, in the comune of Cuneo. Reach it from Boves via the Gesso valley road to Terme di Valdieri, then hike 2.5–3 hours up marked trails through forest and pasture. The final push climbs steeply to the hut's position overlooking Lago di Fontanalba. Most hikers start from Rifugio Gelas (2,372m) or push down to Terme di Valdieri for road access.

The refuge operates as a small, traditional mountain base managed by local guides. It sleeps around 20 people in dormitory style, with basic but functional rooms. Half-board is standard in summer; the kitchen provides hearty Alpine meals. Water comes from the lake and mountain streams. Toilets are basic. The hut stays open June through September, with weekends possible in May and October depending on conditions and snow.

Phone ahead to reserve bunks, especially for weekends and July–August. Contact details are best confirmed via rifugio.net or by asking at Rifugio Gelas when you're there. The hut fills quickly during summer months, so book 2–3 weeks ahead for July. This is working mountain shelter terrain—bring a headtorch, warm layers, and check weather before departure. Winter access is not reliable.