Refuge de Fontanalba
Refuge de Fontanalba is a backcountry alpine hut operated by Ski Club de Nice, set in the Vallée de Fontanalbe near the Vallée de la Roya/Parc National du Mercantour. It sits at about 2018 m in a high-valley setting and functions as a base for day hikes and multi-day trips in the valley.
The refuge is staffed by a resident caretaker (Pauline Ferrier). It has 35 sleeping places, and it’s open from June through September, with 24/7 opening during the season. There is no phone-and-network convenience: there is no network and no Wi‑Fi, and the phone is for emergencies only; payments are cash or cheque (no card payments). Reservation is recommended, and there are warm meals and options for day use including omelettes, salads, and tart (plus local drinks).