Refuge de la Cayolle
1.2
2,262m
Piedmont, Italy
About
Refuge de la Cayolle sits at 2262m on the border between Piedmont and Provence, on the Col de la Cayolle pass. Reach it from the Val Gesso valley in Italy via the Passo della Cayolle trail—allow 4–5 hours from Pietraporzio. The hut is also accessible from the French side via the Boréon valley, making it a natural waypoint for traverses across the Franco-Italian frontier.
The refuge holds 32 beds across simple, shared rooms. Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included). The kitchen serves robust mountain fare suited to the hiking crowd. Winter closure is typical; confirm opening dates before heading up. Facilities include a basic shower and toilet block. The hut operates as a working base for walkers tackling the high passes between the Maritime Alps and the Cottian range.
Book directly by phone or email at least 3–4 weeks ahead for July and August. June and September are quieter but still require advance notice. The pass itself closes under heavy snow, usually December through April, so plan accordingly. Phone ahead to confirm conditions on the trail and hut status during shoulder seasons.
The refuge holds 32 beds across simple, shared rooms. Half-board is standard (dinner and breakfast included). The kitchen serves robust mountain fare suited to the hiking crowd. Winter closure is typical; confirm opening dates before heading up. Facilities include a basic shower and toilet block. The hut operates as a working base for walkers tackling the high passes between the Maritime Alps and the Cottian range.
Book directly by phone or email at least 3–4 weeks ahead for July and August. June and September are quieter but still require advance notice. The pass itself closes under heavy snow, usually December through April, so plan accordingly. Phone ahead to confirm conditions on the trail and hut status during shoulder seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead during July and August, especially for weekends; shoulder seasons (June, September) need less advance notice. Contact them by phone or check rifugio.net for availability.
Typically open June through September; confirm exact dates before planning, as Alpine huts vary by season and weather conditions.
From Italy: 4–5 hours hiking from Pietraporzio via the Passo della Cayolle trail in the Val Gesso valley. From France: accessible via the Boréon valley—both routes converge at the 2262m pass.
Half-board (dinner and breakfast) is standard; 32 beds in shared rooms. Confirm shower availability when booking, as mountain huts vary in hot-water provision.
The 4–5 hour approach is moderate for fit hikers; families with Alpine experience will manage it. The hut itself is basic (shared rooms, simple facilities), so expect rustic conditions, not comfort.
Quick Facts
- Season
- –
- Total
- 32
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Drinking water
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +33 9 88 18 24 55
- Website
- https://refugedelacayolle.fr/